Switching From iPhone to Android is Becoming Easier Than Ever

Google has introduced a new migration system in Android 17 that allows iPhone users to transfer more of their data to an Android phone wirelessly, making migration easier than ever.

The feature is built directly into Android 17, removing the need to download a separate migration app. Google announced the upgrade on July 22 alongside Samsung’s latest Galaxy Z series.

Users can transfer photos, videos, contacts, messages and calendar information. The upgraded system also supports Google Accounts, passwords, Wi-Fi credentials and eSIMs.

New Transfer Process

Google’s support documents show that the upgraded process uses a QR code to connect an iPhone with a new Android phone.

During setup, users select the iPhone or iPad option on their Android and scan the displayed QR code using the iPhone. They can then choose which apps and data they want to copy.

The upgraded Android transfer system requires Android 17 or later. Users must also enable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on their iPhone and update it to the latest available iOS version.

Google says the new process applies to the Pixel 10 and later models. If the QR code does not appear or cannot be scanned, users can still use the older transfer process.

However, eventually all phones running Android 17 should be able to use the new transfer system.

Automatic Moving

Users need a Google Account to transfer certain data types, including notes, passwords and apps.

If an iPhone already has a Google Account and the user chooses to transfer app data, that account may automatically move to the new Pixel phone. Otherwise, the user can sign in or create an account during setup.

Users can continue setting up their new phone while the system copies their data. However, they must keep the iPhone on the transfer screen until the process finishes.

Easier eSIM Transfer

The system transfers an eSIM after the main data-copying process is complete.

Users must keep their iPhone turned on and connected to the Android phone. They can then select an eligible eSIM and complete the transfer by following the instructions displayed on the iPhone.

However, eSIM transfer will not work with every device or mobile network. Users whose carrier does not support the feature will need to contact their network provider.

The new migration experience will also be available on Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip8 and Galaxy Z Fold8 series.

Samsung says iPhone transfers on these devices require Android 17 and One UI 9 or later on the receiving phone. The sending iPhone must run iOS 26.6 or later for both wired and wireless transfers.

The types of data that users can transfer may vary depending on the transfer method. Samsung also confirmed that eSIM availability will depend on the user’s carrier.

Google has started rolling out the upgrade to selected Pixel devices and plans to bring it to more Android phones. However, the company has not announced a complete device list or a specific rollout schedule.