Google has introduced a new data transfer system in Android 17 that makes it much easier for iPhone users to switch to an Android phone. The new feature allows users to transfer most of their important data wirelessly, without needing to install a separate migration app.
Google announced this upgrade on July 22 alongside Samsung’s latest Galaxy Z Flip8 and Galaxy Z Fold8 smartphones. The company says the new migration system is designed to make moving from an iPhone to Android faster, simpler, and more convenient.
One of the biggest improvements is that the transfer tool is now built directly into Android 17. In previous versions, users often had to download an additional app or use extra steps to move their data. With Android 17, everything is included in the phone’s setup process, making switching to Android much easier for new users.
The new system can transfer a wide range of important information from an iPhone to an Android phone. This includes:
- Photos
- Videos
- Contacts
- Text messages
- Calendar events
- Google accounts
- Saved passwords
- Wi-Fi network information
- eSIM data
This means users can move most of their personal information to their new Android device without having to manually set everything up again.
The transfer process has also been simplified. During the setup of a new Android 17 phone, users simply select the option that says they are moving from an iPhone or iPad.
The Android phone then displays a QR code on its screen.
Users scan this QR code using their iPhone, which securely connects both devices. Once connected, they can choose exactly what they want to transfer. For example, they can copy only their contacts and photos or transfer almost everything from the old phone.
Google says the wireless transfer process requires the receiving phone to run Android 17 or a newer version.
The iPhone should also be updated to the latest available version of iOS, with both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth turned on before starting the transfer.
Initially, Google says this feature will be available on the upcoming Pixel 10 and newer Pixel devices. If the QR code does not appear or cannot be scanned for any reason, users can still use the older transfer method as a backup.
Google also plans to expand the feature to more Android phones running Android 17 in the future, although it has not yet shared a complete list of supported devices or an official rollout schedule.
Another useful improvement is that users do not have to wait for the entire transfer process to finish before using their new phone.
After starting the transfer, they can continue setting up their Android device while photos, videos, messages, and other files are copied in the background.
However, Google advises users to keep the iPhone turned on and leave it on the transfer screen until the process is fully completed to avoid interruptions.
Some types of information require users to have a Google Account.
For example, transferring saved passwords, Google apps, notes, and certain settings requires a Google account.
If the iPhone is already signed in with a Google account, that account can automatically move to the new Android phone during setup.
If not, users can either sign in with an existing Google account or create a new one while setting up their new device.
Google has also improved eSIM transfer, making it easier for users who use digital SIM cards.
Once the main data transfer is complete, users can transfer an eligible eSIM by following the instructions shown on both devices.
To complete the process, the iPhone must remain turned on and connected to the Android phone.
Users simply select the eSIM they want to move and follow the on-screen instructions.
However, Google notes that eSIM transfer is not supported by every mobile network.
If a user’s mobile carrier does not support automatic eSIM transfer, they may need to contact their network provider to activate the eSIM manually.
Samsung has also confirmed that the new migration system will be available on its latest foldable smartphones, including the Galaxy Z Flip8 and Galaxy Z Fold8.
According to Samsung, users will need:
- An Android phone running Android 17 with One UI 9 or later
- An iPhone running iOS 26.6 or later
These requirements apply to both wireless and wired data transfers.
Samsung also explained that the amount of data users can transfer may depend on the transfer method being used. Similarly, eSIM support will vary depending on the user’s mobile network operator.
Overall, Google’s new Android 17 migration system represents a major improvement for people moving from an iPhone to Android. By building the transfer tool directly into the operating system, simplifying the setup process with QR code pairing, supporting wireless transfers, and allowing users to move photos, contacts, messages, passwords, Wi-Fi settings, Google accounts, and even eSIMs, Google is making the switch to Android much smoother than before.
Although the feature is currently rolling out to selected Pixel devices, Google plans to bring it to more Android smartphones in the future. Once widely available, the new migration system could make switching from an iPhone to Android easier and more convenient for millions of users around the world
