The Contacts app on Android.

Android gives you a few options for transferring your contacts to a new device. Past default, everything should exist synced when you set up a new device, but even if sync is disabled, it'south easy to movement your contacts over.

The Easy Mode: Sync With Your Google Account

Almost all Android devices sold outside of Cathay come up with Google services, including the ability to synchronize your contacts between devices. This should be enabled by default when you lot sign in with your Google business relationship, but here's how to brand sure. We're writing this guide using a Pixel ii 40 running Android 9.0, but information technology should look like on other Android devices. Nosotros're also using the stock Google Contacts apps, which you can download from the Play Store. These steps may not be the same on other Contact apps, so if you're having problems, we recommend using Google Contacts.

Start by opening the Settings appand tapping "Accounts."

Android settings

Tap your Google business relationship.

Google Account settings

Tap "Account Sync."

Account sync settings

Ensure that the "Contacts" toggle is enabled. Information technology must be on for your contacts to synchronize.

Google account sync

That'southward information technology! Your existing contacts will synchronize with your Google account, and they'll be there on whatsoever new Android telephone you sign into.

The Manual Way: Backup and Restore the Contacts File

If your phone doesn't offer Google services—or if you simply want to copy things over yourself—you tin can back up a .vcf file that has all your contacts inside. Start by opening the Contacts app, then select the menu icon in the upper-left. Again, nosotros're using the Google Contacts app here.

Android's contacts app

Tap "Settings" on the menu.

The menu in Android's contacts app

Tap the "Export" selection on the Settings screen.

Android contact settings

Tap "Allow" on the permission prompt. This will give the Contacts app access to the photos, media, and files on your Android device.

Contacts permission prompt

Tap the "Save" push button in the lower right.

Downloading contact data

Y'all can motility the .vcf file to your new telephone past copying information technology to a USB drive, transferring it to a PC, or your favorite cloud service. When you get the file moved to the new phone, open the Contacts app once again. Tap the menu icon in the upper-left.

Android Contacts

Tap "Settings" on the menu.

Android's contacts menu

Tap "Import" on the Settings screen.

Android Contacts' settings menu

Select ".vcf file" in the window that pops up.

Importing a VCF file in Android contacts

Scan to the .vcf file from your previous telephone and open information technology.

Selecting a VCF file to import

Your contacts will import to your new telephone, and y'all can beginning calling and messaging your favorite people.


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