How to Switch from iPhone to Android (or Vice Versa) – Without Losing Your Data

How to Switch from iPhone to Android (or Vice Versa) – Without Losing Your Data

A step-by-step guide to help you transfer apps, photos, contacts and more – and get cash for your old device through our ‘sell my mobile’ service.

Thinking of switching from iPhone to Android (or the other way around)? You’re not alone! Millions of users change operating systems every year. But even with powerful new tools, it can still feel overwhelming.

This guide will walk you through:

  • What to consider before switching
  • How to transfer everything safely
  • What to do with your old phone after switching

Should You Switch Phones?

People usually switch between Android and iPhone for one of these reasons:

  • Your contract’s ending, and you want to explore new features
  • You want a phone that’s cheaper or more powerful
  • You’re moving to a device that suits your lifestyle better (e.g. photography, gaming, productivity)

 

Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

Feature iPhone Android
Customisation Limited but consistent experience with integration amongst different Apple devices. Extensive (themes, widgets, launchers)
Hardware Variety Limited to Apple models Many brands, sizes, and price points
Software Updates 5+ years of updates Varies by manufacturer & model
AI Capabilities Apple Intelligence (on new models) Gemini AI, varies by device
Price Range £599–£1,500+ £150–£1,500+
Ecosystem Seamless across Apple devices Flexibility with Google/Windows
Camera Smooth video, cinematic video qualities. and natural colours Multiple lenses, AI enhancements, and advanced manual settings.

How to Transfer from Android to iPhone

Apple provides the ‘Move to iOS app’ to help with data transfer from Android devices:

  1. Download “Move to iOS”: Available on Google Play.
  2. Set Up New iPhone: During initial setup, choose “Move Data from Android”.
  3. Connect Devices: The iPhone creates a private Wi-Fi network; connect your Android device to it.
  4. Select Data to Transfer: You can transfer contacts, message history, photos and videos, web bookmarks, mail accounts, calendars, and free apps that exist on both platforms. Note: you will need to re-download paid apps separately and log in again.
  5. Complete Setup and Verify: After the transfer finishes, continue iPhone setup. Check that contacts, photos, and other data have been successfully migrated.

Transferring from iPhone to Android

Google’s ‘Switch to Android’ (also called Android Switch) app gives you a guided transfer from iOS:

  1. Check Requirements: Many Android devices include the Android Switch app pre-installed or downloadable from the Play Store. Ensure your iPhone has Bluetooth enabled and is unlocked during the process.
  2. Turn Off iMessage: Before switching, disable iMessage on your iPhone to avoid missing SMS messages after moving to Android.
  3. Use Wired or Wireless Transfer: Depending on the device, you can connect via a USB-C to Lightning cable or transfer wirelessly for certain data.
  4. Finalise Android Setup: After data migration, set up your Google Account on the Android device, verify data presence, and reconfigure app settings as needed.

What to Do with Your Old Phone?

Once you’ve moved everything, don’t let your old phone gather dust – trade it in for cash.

We make it easy:

  1. Search for your model (iPhone or Android) on our website
  2. Select condition (Excellent, Good, Broken)
  3. Get an instant quote. The price shown is the amount you’ll receive if everything matches.
  4. Send it in free. We’ll check the device and send payment quickly.

Sell your old phone today > We accept all iPhone models, and a range of Android phones, including Samsung Galaxy devices.

Final Tips Before Switching

  1. Back up everything before beginning the transfer process (just in case).
  2. Check compatibility with accessories, such as smartwatches, chargers, and earbuds.
  3. Update the software on both devices to the latest version before transferring.

Ready to Switch?

Whether you’re moving to Android for more flexibility or joining the Apple ecosystem for simplicity, the switch is easier than ever.

Need help choosing the right model or selling your old phone? Get in touch with our team to learn more about how it works.