Changing your mobile phone or tablet: how to migrate data and recycle your old models

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Getting a new phone or tablet is always exciting, but right after that comes the big question: how to switch devices without losing anything and what to do with the old one ? Contacts, photos, WhatsApp, settings, documents, games… These days we carry everything in our pockets, so a poorly executed switch can be a real headache.

The good news is that there are plenty of tools and methods for migrating data between phones and tablets , even between Android and iOS, easily and quite securely . What's more, your old phone or tablet doesn't have to end up forgotten in a drawer: it can become a retro gaming console, security camera, media center, and much more. Let's see, step by step and in detail, how to do it.

Changing your mobile phone: securely copy your data

Before using your old device again, the first thing to do is transfer all your data to your new phone or tablet . This is where cloud backups, official brand apps, and some third-party tools come in, making things much easier.

The most important thing is that you never start deleting anything from the old device until you have verified that everything is correctly restored to the new one: contacts, photos, applications, chats, calendar and other personal information.

Android to Android Transfer

When you switch from one Android device to another, you have the advantage that Google has almost everything set up to make the migration very automatic . You can recover many things with just your Gmail account without much trouble, although it's a good idea to complete the process with a few extra steps.

Backup to your Google account

On virtually any current Android phone you can make a complete backup to Google Drive that includes app data, call history, system settings, SMS (on many models), saved WiFi networks and other key elements.

To do this, on most phones simply go to Settings > System > Backup (this may vary slightly depending on the brand) and enable the option to back up to Google Drive or "Google Cloud Backup". Let the process finish, which may take some time if you have a lot of data.

When you turn on your new Android device, during the setup wizard you'll see a screen asking if you want to restore data from a Google backup . Sign in with the same account, choose your old device, and the system will download apps, settings, and some of your personal information.

Transfer via cable or Wi-Fi between Android devices

In addition to the cloud, many recent mobile phones allow you to clone data directly from your old phone during the initial setup . You'll usually find an option like "Copy data from another device" or something similar.

In this case, a USB-C to USB-C cable or a USB adapter is typically used to connect both phones, although a Wi-Fi Direct mode is also available. The system guides you step by step: you choose what you want to transfer (apps, photos, messages, etc.) and the transfer begins. It's a very intuitive process and faster than relying solely on cloud backups.

Sync Google contacts and calendar

If you already used your Gmail contacts, you don't have to do much to transfer them . Simply sign in with the same Google account on your new phone, and as long as syncing is enabled, your contacts and calendar events will automatically appear.

If your contacts are still on the SIM card, you can import them from the Contacts app on the new phone (there is usually an "Import from SIM" option), and they will be copied to the Google account or the device's memory.

If you need guides on how to move contacts between platforms, check out specific articles on how to transfer contacts between Android and iPhone.

Photos, videos, and files with Google Photos and other services

For multimedia, the most convenient option is to rely on the cloud: Google Photos allows you to automatically back up all your photos and videos when your phone is connected to Wi-Fi and charged.

Once the backup is complete, simply install Google Photos on the new device and sign in with the same account. Not all photos will be downloaded to internal storage (they will remain in the cloud), but you will be able to access your entire gallery from anywhere with an internet connection.

If you prefer to do it your way, you can always use the classic method: connect your phone to your computer via USB , copy the folders of photos, videos, and documents, and then transfer them to the new phone. It's more manual, but it ensures you control what you move and what you don't.

Manufacturer-specific applications

Besides Google, many manufacturers include their own cloning apps like Phone Clone, Mi Mover , etc. These tools are designed to transfer specific data from the customization layer (wallpapers, desktop layouts, specific settings) that are sometimes lost if you only use the Google copy.

In many cases, they come pre-installed on the phone and are activated during the initial setup or from the settings. They are especially recommended if you switch to a phone from the same brand , because there is greater compatibility between settings and apps, and it feels like "having the same phone, but new."

Transferring data between iPhone and Android (and vice versa)

When the switch involves crossing the border between Android and iOS , things get a little more complicated, but both Apple and Google have greatly improved their migration processes. You won't lose your photos, contacts, or emails if you follow the correct steps, although some apps won't be able to transfer their data between systems.

From Android to iPhone with Move to iOS

Apple offers an official tool called Move to iOS to migrate from an Android device to a new iPhone. It can be downloaded from Google Play and is used during the initial iPhone setup process.

During the iOS setup wizard, you'll see the option " Transfer data from Android ." Selecting it will cause your iPhone to display a code that you'll need to enter into the Move to iOS app on your Android device. From there, you can choose what you want to move: email accounts, contacts, messages, photos, browser bookmarks, and some apps that are available on iOS.

The process requires both phones to be turned on, connected to the same Wi-Fi network, and have sufficient battery power . Internal data from most third-party apps is not transferred, but the essential elements are, allowing you to continue using the new system without starting from scratch.

From iPhone to Android with Google Drive and Google Assistant

If you're switching from iOS to Android, Google has also stepped up to make life easier for those coming from the Apple ecosystem . One common way to do this is by using Google Drive on your iPhone to back up your contacts, calendar, and photos.

Install Google Drive on your iPhone, sign in with your Google account, and look for the "backup" option for contacts, calendar events, and photos . The time it takes will vary depending on the amount of data. Then, when you turn on your new Android device and sign in with that account, that data will be restored.

Additionally, many recent Android phones offer a specific " restore from iPhone " option during startup . This typically involves connecting both devices with a USB cable or following an on-screen guide that allows you to transfer contacts, some Android apps, images, and other compatible data.

However, it's important to understand that not all iOS app data can be recovered on Android, as each system manages apps independently. Essential data (contacts, email, calendar, photos) is usually preserved without issue.

iPhone-to-iPhone transfers with Quick Start and iCloud

If you're simply upgrading your iPhone to a newer model, the process is a breeze thanks to Apple's Quick Start and iCloud backups . With your old iPhone powered on, just bring the new one close and follow the on-screen instructions.

You'll see a message asking if you want to set up the new device using your Apple ID and the information from your old phone. If you accept, some of your information will be transferred directly between phones , and the rest will be downloaded from iCloud: contacts, photos, messages, settings, apps (which will be reinstalled from the App Store), etc.

If you prefer not to use Quick Start, you can also set up your new iPhone from scratch and sign in with your Apple ID. Your photos, contacts, and other data synced to iCloud will be automatically restored , though it may take a while to complete if your library is very large.

Specific tools for Samsung mobiles and other brands

In addition to the generic processes from Google and Apple, some brands have developed their own very complete solutions to move data from almost any device, including iPhones, older Android devices, and even phones with other old systems.

Samsung Smart Switch for Galaxy Mobiles and Tablets

If your new phone or tablet is a Samsung Galaxy, you have Smart Switch at your fingertips —one of the most comprehensive migration tools available. It works for transferring data from other Android devices, iPhones, and even devices with discontinued operating systems like Windows Mobile or BlackBerry.

With Smart Switch, you can transfer contacts, messages, call logs, photos, videos, music, apps, documents, and even many system settings . It also offers two key features: direct copying between devices and the ability to create a backup on your PC or Mac.

Smart Switch comes pre-installed on many Galaxy devices. If you don't see it, you can download it from the Galaxy Store or Google Play . It's usually found in the Settings menu, under "Accounts and backup > Smart Switch." From there, you can choose whether to transfer data from another phone (via cable or Wi-Fi) or create/restore a backup on your computer.

Smart Switch is compatible with iPhones and any Android device running at least version 4.0 . Data transfer is encrypted in transit, and Samsung also uses Google Play services to display available accounts and certain device identifiers, solely for functionality and analytics purposes.

Tablet Clone and other brand-specific apps

In the world of tablets, there are also proprietary solutions. Huawei, for example, offers Tablet Clone (or Phone Clone) , designed to seamlessly transfer data between Huawei tablets or from other Android/iOS devices to a new Huawei tablet.

These apps typically allow you to move contacts, call logs, messages, photos, videos, music, documents, and even compatible applications . They usually work via direct Wi-Fi between devices, without needing a computer.

Transferring data from an old tablet to a new one

When you switch tablets, the scenario is very similar to that of mobile phones, but with some key differences: you often handle more documents, multimedia content for leisure or study, and professional apps . Ideally, you should combine several methods to ensure you don't miss anything.

Third-party tools: iReaShare Phone Transfer and similar

In addition to the official options, there are dedicated programs like iReaShare Phone Transfer , designed to simplify migration between tablets and mobiles of different systems: Android to Android, iOS to iOS, Android to iOS and vice versa.

This type of software is usually compatible with Android 6.0 or higher and iOS 5.0 or higher , and allows you to transfer contacts, text messages, photos, videos, music, call logs, documents, calendar entries, and, in some cases, apps. Many offer transfer via both USB and Wi-Fi and let you select exactly which types of files you want to move.

The advantage of these solutions is that they can perform very complete backups without relying on cloud services , maintaining the original quality and format. Furthermore, they generally do not erase or replace existing data on the target tablet, but rather add it.

SD card and external readers

If both tablets have a microSD card slot, or you have a compatible reader, you have a simple method at hand: use the card as a USB drive to move large files . This is especially useful for photos, large videos, documents, movies, or music.

Simply copy the desired files from your old tablet to the SD card, turn it off, remove the card, and insert it into your new tablet. It's a very straightforward method, requiring no cables or computer , although it focuses on files rather than settings or apps.

Google Drive and other cloud services

Another very practical option, especially if you don't have cables handy, is to rely on the cloud: Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive and similar services allow you to save, synchronize and share files between several devices with relative ease.

You upload important files from your old tablet (or add them to the synced folders), and when you log in with the same account on your new tablet, you can download them or keep them accessible directly from the cloud . However, you'll need an internet connection and some patience if the files are very large.

Transfer data using a computer and USB cable

The tried-and-true method still works: using your PC as an intermediary . Connect your old tablet to your computer via USB, copy the important folders and files, disconnect, and then connect your new tablet to paste the content.

It's a highly reliable way to move large volumes of data without relying on internet speed , ideal when your Wi-Fi connection is weak or unstable. Plus, you have complete control over what gets copied, what gets deleted, and how folders are organized.

Frequently asked questions when changing tablets

A very common question is whether you can transfer absolutely everything from one tablet to another . When both are Android, you can usually move practically all types of data, especially with the right tools. Between Android and iOS, however, some things don't transfer well (internal app data, certain advanced settings).

Regarding data loss, if the process is done correctly and you always make a backup beforehand , losing information is uncommon. Even so, it never hurts to have more than one copy (for example, on your PC and in the cloud) before starting.

Separating work and personal life with a work profile

If your new Android phone is going to be used for both your personal life and work, setting up a work profile can be incredibly useful . It's an Android feature designed to allow your company's IT department to manage work apps and data without affecting your personal information.

When you activate it, you'll see that work apps appear with a briefcase icon or in a tab called "Work." You can have, for example, two email applications: your personal one and your work one, perfectly separate.

Another key advantage is that you can pause your work profile to avoid receiving work notifications outside of working hours: at the end of the day, on vacation, or whenever you simply want to disconnect. Your company will usually provide the necessary steps to register your device and add your work profile.

What to do with your old mobile phone: ideas to give it a second life

Once your data is safely backed up to your new device, it's time to decide what to do with the old one. It doesn't have to end up forgotten in a drawer: there are many ways to reuse it, from the most classic to the most geeky.

Sell ​​it, give it away, or donate it

The usual options are to get some money out of it, give it to someone in need, or donate it to an organization. Whatever you choose, before handing it over, it's mandatory to erase any trace of yourself.

It's best to first make a full backup and reset your phone to factory settings . This will delete accounts, photos, messages, and any personal data you don't want falling into the wrong hands. A good physical cleaning (screen, casing, ports) will also help to make it presentable.

To sell it, you can use platforms like Wallapop, Milanuncios, specialized forums, or secondhand stores . Another interesting option is to check if the brand of your new phone offers trade-in programs: you hand in your old phone and get a discount on the purchase of the new one.

Convert it into a retro console or a cloud console

If your old phone isn't a complete lemon, it probably has more than enough power to become a small portable console packed with retro games . With legal emulators and your backups of old games, you can have hours of entertainment in your pocket.

Combined with a Razer Kishi-type controller or an affordable GameSir model , the phone practically transforms into a modern Game Boy or a mini Switch-style console. Ideal for travel or relaxing on the couch.

You can also use it for cloud gaming with video game streaming services . This way, you can keep your new phone free from the wear and tear of having the screen at maximum brightness, the processor working overtime, and the battery draining rapidly during long gaming sessions.

For optimal performance, it's best to remove all unnecessary apps from your phone, disable notifications, put it in airplane mode with Wi-Fi enabled, and only install streaming apps . Using a USB controller instead of Bluetooth will reduce latency and significantly improve the experience.

Use it as a webcam or security camera

The camera on a mobile phone from a few years ago is usually far superior to many cheap webcams still around . That makes it a perfect candidate to enhance your video calls.

With apps like Camo or DroidCam, you can use your phone as a webcam for your computer by connecting it via USB or Wi-Fi. Some phones even allow this natively when plugged into a PC, but if yours doesn't, these apps solve the problem.

Another possibility is to use it to monitor your home, your pet, or even a 3D printer . Apps like IP WebCam or AtHome Camera turn your phone into a makeshift security camera that you can access remotely from another device.

Convert it into a GPS or dash cam for your car

If your car doesn't have Android Auto or CarPlay, or you simply prefer not to burden your new phone on the dashboard, you can use your old phone as a dedicated GPS and, incidentally, as a multimedia center if the car has Bluetooth.

Simply install Google Maps, download offline maps of your city or even the entire country, and use your phone as a navigator even without a data connection . You won't get real-time traffic or accident information, but you will get complete directions to your destination.

All you need is a good car or motorcycle mount and, if the battery is running low, a car charger or USB port. However, it's crucial never to leave your phone in the car in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures , as it can quickly deteriorate.

Furthermore, you can turn it into a dash cam that records everything that happens while you drive . With a special app or even the built-in camera, you can record your journeys, always respecting privacy regulations and without handling your phone while driving.

Multimedia center, travel mobile and home brain

Another very practical way to reuse your old smartphone is to use it as a music, movie, and TV show player . You can download offline content to your favorite streaming apps and take that device with you as a "media center" for long trips.

Carrying two phones around might not be worthwhile on a daily basis, but for train, plane, or car journeys, it's a very convenient solution to avoid draining your main phone's battery by watching videos or listening to music nonstop.

In fact, many people prefer to travel with a spare mobile phone packed in their suitcase in case something happens to their main one: theft, breakage, falling into water… Having a second charged phone can get you out of a major bind, especially abroad.

If you have a smart home, you can also keep your old one as a home automation control center in the living room , with apps like Alexa, Google Home, your smart bulbs, smart plugs, robot vacuum, etc. This way, anyone in the house can manage everything without needing their own phone.

Device for experimenting and learning how to repair it

And if you're the type who likes to tinker, your old phone can serve as a "guinea pig" for learning and experimenting . It's the perfect candidate for trying out custom ROMs, rooting , installing unconventional software, and generally overcoming your fear of modifying the system.

You can even try opening it up and practicing small DIY repairs : changing the battery, replacing a broken screen, cleaning the inside… With the right tools and good tutorials, it's a great way to understand how a smartphone is built inside and acquire useful skills.

Let's be honest: there's a risk that the phone might end up unusable during some experiment, but that's precisely the point—it 's not your main device, so you can afford to learn by making mistakes . And if everything goes well, you'll have a perfectly resurrected phone ready to use in any of the roles mentioned above.

Managing your mobile or tablet change well, taking advantage of backups, official tools and third-party apps, allows the jump to your new device to be smooth and drama-free, while a little imagination turns your old models into allies for playing games, traveling, monitoring your home, controlling home automation or learning to repair technology, preventing them from accumulating dust in a drawer and thus extending their useful life.