After being a loyal iPhone owner for the past 16 years, I finally made the switch to an Android phone, specifically the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE. There are myriad reasons I switched, but the bottom line is that it was easy and fast, and I wish I had done it sooner.
If you're on the fence about switching to an Android, the process is extremely simple. I'll walk you through it below.
Transferring data is easier than you think
You might assume that transferring your data from an iPhone to an Android device is difficult, considering the different ecosystems, but it's actually easier than you might think. There are plenty of apps and services to help you do so after you buy a new phone, and in some cases, switching phones is easier than switching carriers.
You can easily transfer your data from your iPhone to your Android phone wirelessly, via the cloud, or by using a cable.
Transferring with a cable
Transferring your data from your iPhone to an Android with a cable is actually the best way to ensure that as much data as possible gets moved to your new device. When you transfer wirelessly, things like call history and notes won't transfer over, but they do when you transfer through a cable.
To set up your new Android device, plug it into your previous iPhone via a USB-C or Lightning-to-USB-C cable to automatically transfer data over. All you'll have to do is follow the on-screen instructions on your Android phone and select what kinds of data you want to transfer over, including your contacts, photos, messages, audio recordings, and device settings.
Transferring data wirelessly
Though using a cable is the best way to transfer data from an iPhone to an Android device, if you don't have a cable handy or just want to use a wireless connection, you can do so over Wi-Fi using the Android Switch app. Keep in mind that when you use this app, there are certain things that will not transfer over, like notes and call history.
Before you transfer your data from an iPhone to an Android device:
- Turn iMessage off on your iPhone.
- Connect both devices to Wi-Fi and keep them within range of each other.
To switch data from iPhone to Android wirelessly:
- Follow the setup instructions on your Android device.
- Choose which apps and data to copy from your iPhone.
- Select the option to “Switch without a cable.”
- When a QR code appears, scan it with your iPhone—this prompts you to download the Android Switch app.
- Open the app and follow the instructions.
- These instructions should be the same or similar, no matter what version of iOS or Android you have.
Transferring data via the cloud
Some data can be transferred from iPhone to Android via the cloud, such as photos and videos. This can be especially useful if, for example, you broke your iPhone.
If you have photos and videos in iCloud, transfer them to Google Photos first, then upload them to your new Android once your phone is set up.
To switch photos and videos from iCloud to Google Photos
- Visit Apple's Data and Privacy page.
- Log into your Apple account.
- Request a transfer of your data from iCloud to Google Photos.
- You can choose to transfer just photos, just videos, or both.
Ready to make the switch to Android?
The best thing about Android phones is the variety, from several manufacturers. You can get one that focuses on a high-end camera or one that's built for performance. Some, of course, focus on everything, offering an excellent camera, great performance, stunning displays, and so on.
Many Android users love the Pixel series for the tight integration with Google Apps and services and the stripped-back software experience. All Pixel devices avoid pushing extra apps and services on top of Google Apps and services, as some third-party devices might do. They're also known for their excellent photographic software.
Samsung phones are also known for high-end cameras and fast performance, as well as innovative models like the Galaxy Z Flip and Z Fold series. Samsung also offers budget-minded suites like the A-series, which is geared toward utility with just a sprinkle of premium smartphone features.
What to look for in an Android phone
Your everyday usage and preferences determine what to specifically look for in an Android phone. If you're looking for a phone with top performance or excellent cameras, then look for a device with a top-tier processor and a triple-lens array, like the Galaxy S-series Ultra models.
The Pixel is a great alternative for photographers, as it combines quality camera lenses with exceptional image processing capabilities, while remaining more affordable than other options that go all in on the hardware.
For gamers and streamers, a large screen, OLED display, and high refresh rate are all important to your everyday experience. The Galaxy S serires as well as the Z series are excellent options here.
Moto G 5G (2025) 128GB
- 6.7 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 50MP, 2MP
- Front Camera: 16MP
Moto G 5G (2026) 128GB
- 6.7 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 50MP, 2MP
- Front Camera: 32MP
Galaxy A26 5G
- 6.7 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 50MP, 8MP, 2MP
- Front Camera: 13MP
Moto G Power (2025) 128GB
- 6.8 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 50MP, 8MP
- Front Camera: 16MP
Edge (2025) 256GB
- 6.7 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 50MP, 50MP, 10MP
- Front Camera: 50MP
What to do with your old iPhone
After transferring all your data, you’ll want to perform a factory reset on your old iPhone before you give it away, donate it, or trade it in. This wipes all the data on your iPhone and removes "Find My" from the device.
To factory reset your iPhone:
- Open the Settings app and tap General.
- Scroll down and select Transfer or Reset iPhone.
- Tap Erase All Content and Settings and follow the on-screen instructions.
Your device should now be ready to dispose of as you see fit.
Christian de Looper
Contributing Writer
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