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Switch from an Android to a Pixel phone

Switch from an Android to your new Pixel in a few simple steps, and pick up where you left off. The Google apps you use everyday, like Gmail and Google Maps, are ready to go.

Transfer your data
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The following screens are based on Pixel devices with Android 14. The steps might be different if you have an earlier operating system.

  1. Step 1 of 5

    Get ready to set up your new Pixel

    Before you switch from an Android device to your Pixel, make sure you have the following items:

    • Your fully charged existing Android device on the latest software and its charging cable
    • A strong Wi-Fi connection
    • Your new, fully charged Pixel device
    • SIM card tool

    If you are using a SIM card, you can use a SIM card tool to eject the SIM tray and insert the SIM card before turning on your device.

    Important: A Google Account is recommended. Otherwise, some existing apps will not automatically download on your new Pixel.

    Learn more about what apps and data will transfer.

  2. Step 2 of 5

    Pair your phones

    Turn on both your existing Android phone and your new Pixel. Tap Get Started.

    On your new Pixel, tap Pixel or Android device. On your existing Android phone, tap Set up on the notification, or open your camera app manually.

    If you are setting up a phone for a child, tap Skip. Learn how to set up a child device.

    Scan the QR code (Pixel 8 & later)

    • Use your existing Android phone to scan the QR code on your new Pixel.

    Note: If your device detects a poor connection between devices, it may prompt you to transfer data via cable connection.

    Continue setup on your new Pixel.

  3. Step 3 of 5

    Prepare your Pixel

    Your new Pixel will automatically connect to the same Wi-Fi network as your existing Android Phone.

    • Important: If your existing Android phone is not connected to Wi-Fi, you’ll be prompted to connect to a Wi-Fi network on your Pixel.

    On your Pixel, enter your existing Android phone’s screen lock.

    • Your Google Accounts will begin to transfer to your Pixel device.

    Set up your SIM.

    • If available, tap Download eSIM to set up an eSIM from your carrier.
    • If you have a SIM card and didn’t insert it already, insert your SIM card into the SIM card slot tray using a SIM card tool.
    • Follow the prompts to transfer your SIM card or eSIM to your Pixel.

    Learn how to set up and use an eSIM.

    If you wish to set up your Pixel without a SIM or eSIM, tap Skip.

  4. Step 4 of 5

    Copy apps and data

    Lastly, you can copy your data from your existing Android device, including apps, photos, contacts, and more.

    To finish your setup more quickly, you can select Express to only copy data from your phone that’s not available in your Google Account.

    Select Customize to choose what data and apps to copy.

    During setup you can turn on Gemini, your built-in AI assistant on your Pixel. Tap Use Gemini. Learn more about the Gemini mobile app.

    Learn more about what copies to your Pixel phone.

    Note: You can transfer data after setup by going to the Settings app > Backup or copy data. Learn how to restore your data from a backup.

  5. Step 5 of 5

    Get support

    We’re always here to help, 24/7. To learn more about your Pixel or to get in touch, visit the Pixel Phone Help Center.

    If you need more help setting up your Pixel, open the Settings app . Then, scroll down, and tap Tips & support.

    You can learn more about your new device with the Pixel Tips app.

    You can also explore the Pixel Simulator, our YouTube channel, or visit the Pixel Help Center.

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