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Android Authority
4 days ago
- General
- Android Authority
How to move text messages to a new phone
Have you just bought a new smartphone? Whether you use Google Messages or another texting app, you likely want to transfer the years of messages accumulated on your old phone to your new handset. Thankfully, this task is easier than you may think. Here's how to move text messages to a new phone, transfer Google Messages to a new phone, and more. Editor's note: We used a Google Pixel 7 running Android 14 and an Apple iPhone 12 Mini running iOS 17.2.1 to formulate these instructions. Some menus and steps may change depending on your hardware and software. How to move text messages from an old Android to a new Android phone Rita El Khoury / Android Authority Transferring messages from one Android phone to another Android phone is easy. You can use your old device and Google account to back up and restore text messages. Notably, this is the best method for transferring Google Messages to a new phone, too. You'll first need to back up your messages on your old phone before restoring them on your new device. Backup your text messages using Google One: Open the Settings app on your old Android phone. Go into Google. Hit the All services tab. Select Backup. Ensure that Backup by Google One is enabled. Scroll down and ensure SMS and MMS messages are listed. Tap the Back up now button to manually back up your messages. Restore your text messages from the Google One backup: Turn on your new phone and log in using the same Google account you used to create the backup. During the setup process, choose Restore when your phone asks if you want to restore the data connected to your account. After the setup process is complete, open Google Messages. You should now see your messages in the app. How to move text messages to a new iPhone Like an Android phone, you can use your iCloud account on an iPhone to back up and restore your messages. Let's start by turning on backups on your older iPhone. How to enable iCloud backups: Ensure you have iOS 11.4 or later installed. Plug your iPhone in and connect it to Wi-Fi. Open Settings app. Go into the Apple ID settings, which is labeled as your name. Select iCloud. Make sure iCloud Backup is enabled. Then, select Show All under Apps Using iCloud. Tap on Messages in iCloud and toggle on the Use on this iPhone option. Hit Sync Now. How to restore your Messages on a new iPhone: Turn on your new iPhone. Go through the setup steps. When prompted, tap Restore from iCloud Backup to restore your messages. The transfer process may take a while, but you should see your messages in the Messages app once it is complete. How to move text messages from iPhone to Android Dhruv Bhutani / Android Authority You can transfer messages from an iPhone to an Android phone, but the process will be more involved. How to transfer text messages from iPhone to Android: Turn on your new Android phone and follow the setup process. When prompted to 'Copy apps & data,' tap Next. Turn on and unlock your iPhone, then tap Next on the 'Use your old phone' screen. You will need a cable that can connect to your iPhone on one end and an Android device on the other. This could be a Lightning to USB-C cable, or a USB-C to USB-C cable if you have an iPhone 15 or 16. Alternatively, you can pick up an adapter. Plug the USB-C end into your phone and connect the other end to your iPhone. When prompted on your Android phone, sign in with your Google account, then hit Next. You'll be asked what you want to copy. Make sure you choose Messages along with anything else you wish to copy. Then tap Copy. Tap Continue. Continue through the rest of the setup process. Your Android phone will remind you to disable iMessage on your iPhone. Ensure you do this so you don't miss out on future messages. How to transfer text messages from iPhone to Samsung phones Robert Triggs / Android Authority The process is a bit more streamlined if you have a Samsung phone. As a bonus, you can do it anytime, not just when setting up your new Android phone. Download the Samsung Smart Switch app on your Samsung device. Open the app and then select Receive data. Choose iPhone/iPad as the source. Make sure your iPhone is on and unlocked Plug the iPhone into your Samsung device using the needed cable, and an adapter, if required. You can also opt to Transfer wirelessly or Get data from iCloud. The Smart Switch app will automatically search your iPhone. Choose Messages along with other things you wish to transfer. Tap Transfer. The transfer process can take some time, but you'll see a progress indicator on your Samsung device. Ensure the Keep screen on option is enabled, so nothing gets interrupted. Once the transfer finishes, tap Next. Your Samsung phone will remind you to disable iMessage on your iPhone. Ensure you do this so you don't miss out on future messages. How to move text messages from Android to iPhone Apple offers an easy way to move messages from Android to iPhone. How to use Move to iOS to transfer text messages: Install Move to iOS on your Android phone. Turn on your new iPhone and begin the setup process. Make sure to connect to a Wi-Fi network. When the prompt regarding Apps & Data appears, select Move Data from Android. Make a note of the security code displayed on your iPhone. Open Move to iOS on your Android device. You'll need to accept the terms, privacy policy, and more. Hit Agree > Continue > Agree > Automatically Send (or Don't Send) > Continue > Continue > Continue. Enter the security code when prompted. In the Move to iOS app, select the types of data you want to transfer. Ensure you choose Messages. Complete the setup process on your iPhone. FAQs Can I get my text messages back even if I have gotten rid of my old phone? It depends. If you already had message backups enabled, then you should be able to get them back. But if not, it is probably too late. Messages are saved locally to a phone unless you have backups enabled, meaning if you get rid of the device, the messages will be gone, too. Will text message backups take up space in my Google Drive or iCloud account? Yes, but the exact amount depends on how many there are, how long they are, and whether they contain images and other forms of content in addition to text. I don't want my messages continually saved in a backup account forever; can I just back them up once for the transfer process? Yes, you can choose to back up your messages only for the transfer process and then revoke the relevant permissions in settings once everything is complete. How do I transfer Google Messages to a new phone? To transfer Google Messages to a new phone, follow the steps for backing up your data to Google One. Next, once your data is backed up, restore your data to your new phone. Once your data is restored, when you open Google Messages on your new device, your messages should be visible.
Time of India
29-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
"This is the first-of-its-kind,' Google's Mitul Shah on tailoring a online Google Store experience around India's unique needs
There's a particular moment in every market expansion when companies face a fundamental choice: replicate what works elsewhere, or build something entirely new. For 's Pixel business in India, that moment arrived with the launch of their direct-to-consumer online store, a decision that reveals as much about the company's understanding of Indian consumers as it does about the evolution of retail technology itself. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Mitul Shah , Managing Director of Devices and Services at , sat down with the Times of India to discuss this very approach of strategic patience. Speaking with him, it becomes clear that the launch of the Google Store in India isn't merely about adding another sales channel, it's about fundamentally reimagining what a technology brand's relationship with consumers should look like in one of the world's most complex markets. "In India, we didn't copy-paste a template, we built a first-of-its-kind store," Shah explains, his conviction evident in every word. This statement carries weight beyond typical corporate positioning. It reflects a deeper philosophical shift in how global technology companies approach market localisation, moving from adaptation to ground-up innovation. The implications are profound. While most international brands enter India with modified versions of their global strategies, Google chose a different path entirely. They waited, observed, and then built something that had never existed in their global portfolio. The result is a store experience that includes UPI payments, extensive EMI options across dozens of Indian banks, comprehensive trade-in programs, and same-day repair services, capabilities that don't exist in Google's operations anywhere else in the world. "This is the first-of-its-kind Google Online Store we've launched anywhere else in the world," Shah emphasises. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now "India is, in many ways, a unique thing. And with all of those capabilities, I believe now is the perfect time to get started." The reversal is striking: instead of India adapting to Google's global template, Google has created something specifically for India that may well influence their approach elsewhere. This is direct, dedicated and delightful The timing question reveals Shah's deeper understanding of consumer psychology and market maturation. When pressed about why Google waited nearly three years after re-entering the Indian smartphone market with Pixel 7 to launch their direct store, his response illuminates the sophisticated calculus behind market entry timing. "If you look at it from a consumer behaviour point of view, 10 or 15 years back, all of us as customers would probably go and do discovery of the product in a retail store," Shah begins, painting a picture of India's retail evolution. "Today, if any premium product you are purchasing, chances are that you would go online at some point of time, right? 100% of my purchases, I would have gone online." This observation touches on something more fundamental than shopping preferences, it's about the democratisation of information and the collapse of traditional retail hierarchies. Indian consumers, particularly in the premium segment, have leapfrogged traditional discovery patterns, moving directly to brand-authentic sources for product information and purchasing decisions. The shift represents what Shah identifies as a trust revolution. "In India, direct-to-consumer channels, why they are thriving regardless of which industry that is in, is also because Indian consumers have started trusting brands and the authenticity of the information which is coming from them a lot more," he notes. This trust dividend has translated into tangible business metrics: higher average selling prices, increased purchase confidence, and greater willingness to engage directly with brands. But Shah's strategic patience extended beyond consumer behaviour analysis. The post-COVID period provided crucial market intelligence. "Post-COVID, the industry hadn't stabilised fully in terms of consumer behaviour. During COVID, we saw massive expansion of online purchase behaviour, and a lot of that behaviour eventually got sort of normalised post-COVID," he explains. This waiting period allowed Google to distinguish between temporary pandemic-driven changes and permanent behavioural shifts. The culmination of this analysis led to what Shah characterises with memorable alliteration: "From my perspective, this is a perfect time because that's what the consumer is looking for, to give an option of Google Online Store. One, you can educate customers, provide all the comprehensive product information, including AI features, which you know would be amazing. Engage with them directly, you know, create a great brand connect. And three, provide a great customer experience all the way from product display to transaction to post-purchase support. So in my mind, you know, I look at Google Online Store and say, you know, this is direct, dedicated and delightful." It's not just another channel, it's a capability Shah's distinction between channels and capabilities represents perhaps the most sophisticated aspect of Google's India strategy. This isn't semantic positioning, it's a fundamental reconceptualisation of what retail infrastructure should accomplish in complex markets like India. "When we think about online Google Store , in my mind, it's not just another channel. That, you know, if you're selling your product on , then why not sell your product on Google Online Store? Now, when you launch a brand's online store, it is not a channel, it's a capability," Shah explains. This capability framework encompasses everything from payment integration to post-purchase support, treating each element as interconnected components of a larger consumer experience ecosystem. The payment integration alone illustrates this complexity. "For example, on Google Online Store for India specifically, we are bringing payment methods, which includes UPI. Now, that is such a unique thing, it doesn't exist anywhere else in the world, right? Or, for example, Indian users are very, very used to buying their smartphone, particularly premium smartphones, using EMI options, right? And in India, you don't have EMI options with one or two carriers, it would be with dozens of banks, right?" This granular attention to financial infrastructure reveals Google's understanding that technology adoption in India isn't just about product appeal, it's about financial accessibility and payment methodology alignment. The integration of dozens of EMI providers isn't a technical convenience; it's cultural recognition of how Indian consumers manage major purchases across diverse financial institutions and economic circumstances. Shah also addresses the uniquely Indian expectation around device exchange. "The other unique feature about Indian consumers is that, you know, you are not going to buy a new smartphone without actually getting value for your existing one. So buyback or trade-in capability, and to be able to do that online, becomes another capability." This observation goes beyond recycling or sustainability messaging, it acknowledges the economic reality that premium technology purchases in India often require extracting maximum value from existing devices. The strategic brilliance emerges in how Google positions this direct capability relative to existing retail partnerships. Rather than creating competitive tension, Shah frames the brand store as generating positive network effects. "When a brand store comes into the country, it creates this nice halo effect, and that actually helps everyone. So in this case, you know, all our partners are thrilled that this brand store is coming in, because that creates a great halo effect. Everybody gets benefited out of it." This ecosystem thinking, where direct presence elevates rather than threatens retail partners, represents sophisticated market development strategy. "You get to create a benchmark of what a customer experience should look like, right? And that creates sort of a nice way for people to say, 'Okay, this is how the great customer experience looks like.' So I think this is, in a way, very complementary to the existing both online and offline retail strategy." When asked directly about cannibalisation concerns, Shah's response is definitive: 'Absolutely not. The size of the pie is increasing." We are standing behind your experience The service infrastructure conversation reveals perhaps the most telling aspect of Google's India commitment. Shah's acknowledgment of inevitable friction points in complex purchase journeys demonstrates both humility and strategic sophistication. "If you look at that entire journey, I would argue that, you know, there is always going to be some or the other point where the journey breaks for the customer. You experience that. I experience that. If it's not one smartphone, you go and buy tomorrow a fridge or a TV, somewhere, experience breaks, right?" This admission of universal consumer pain points positions Google's service investment as addressing fundamental market failures rather than simply supporting their own products. The company's response involves unprecedented service infrastructure investment. "India is the only country where Google is investing into its own service center," Shah reveals. This represents a remarkable commitment considering Google's global approach to service partnerships. The decision to own service infrastructure in India specifically acknowledges the market's unique requirements and the company's long-term commitment. The service network spans multiple touch points: "We are enhancing our entire service infrastructure also with the launch of this online store, so customers would have an option to directly email, chat, call, you know, register a complaint. The device can be picked up from a doorstep, or they can mail in the device, or they can generate a ticket and go into Google's own service center." A secondary Google representative elaborates on the scope: "We have already brought in three of our own walk-in centers, which is Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and we are obviously coming up with more. So again, very unique to India, where Google actually is opening its own service center. Again, it's our enduring and long-term commitment to Indian consumers that across the entire value chain, we want to bring our own presence and make sure customer experience is enhanced." The geographic reach is impressive: coverage extending to 90-95% of India's pincodes for mail-in service, with 20 centers offering same-day repairs. This infrastructure investment goes far beyond typical retail support, it's market-making investment in consumer confidence. Shah frames this comprehensive approach as fundamental brand promise: "Having a Google Online Store, having a brand's presence, in a way, is a promise to customer, that we are bringing the best to you, and we are standing behind your experience. And if something were to go wrong, we are here to take care of it.' Proudly owning the entire journey for customers The conversation's culmination reveals Google's broader strategic ambition. When asked about parallels to Apple's integrated retail approach in India, Shah's response transcends competitive positioning: "I and my team's mission is to get up every day and say: Can we put more AI-powered devices in the hands of the Indian consumer? And while doing so, can we make it the point that that experience is as amazing as the Indian consumer deserves right now?" This mission-driven framework justifies comprehensive infrastructure investment: "If that means we need to bring our own direct-to-customer channel, then we are doing that. If that means we need to bring manufacturing, our own service center, or if that means we need to bring, you know, great service support network, we will do whatever it takes for us to make sure that we serve to that mission." The Google Store India launch thus emerges not as retail expansion but as strategic declaration. "This is also, in a way, our announcement to the country that we are committed, that we are continuing to bring great investment," Shah concludes. "So if you ask me, we are firing at all cylinders at this point of time."
Tom's Guide
08-05-2025
- Tom's Guide
Google Fi VPN becomes VPN by Google – what this means for you
Subscribers to Google Fi are getting a VPN rebrand, as Google Fi VPN has become VPN by Google. Google has stated the switch is a simple name change to ensure more consistent branding and will not include any technical or functional changes. VPN by Google was first seen on Pixel devices back in 2024 and we don't consider it one of the best VPNs. First reported by 9to5google on May 6, the change is now in place for all Google Fi users on Android, iOS, and Pixel devices. Owners of Pixel 7 and newer devices, and the Pixel Tablet, will now be able to use the built-in VPN by Google service. It's better integrated with the system and makes for a more seamless experience. The VPN can currently be accessed from the "Privacy & Security" tab within the Google Fi app. However this will be changing on May 22. From then on, all VPN settings will be controlled from your Pixel device settings. After toggling your VPN on/off, users will see a "manage VPN in settings" shortcut. To ensure your device and subscription continues to operate smoothly, click "Update VPN now" when prompted. VPN by Google launched in summer 2024 and was first seen as a Google Pixel 8 exclusive. It replaced Google One VPN and involved some design and functionality changes. It was subsequently extended to a wider range of devices and is currently available in 25 countries – including a range of European countries, Australia, Japan, Canada, and the U.S. But Google's privacy credentials aren't exactly glowing. Along with other big tech companies, it has questionable privacy policies and has handed over your data to western governments. In terms of features and performance, VPN by Google can't match the leading VPN providers. Plus, the provider states that "use of VPN may increase data costs depending on your plan." Despite it being a handy extra feature to your Pixel device and Google plans, we wouldn't recommend it as a reliable VPN. Our best VPN guide breaks down some of our favourite providers and no matter your needs or budget, there'll be a VPN for you. We also have guides detailing the fastest VPNs, the best cheap VPN, the best streaming VPN, the most private VPN, and the best free VPN. We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example: 1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service). 2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad. We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.
Android Authority
07-05-2025
- Android Authority
Say goodbye to Google Fi VPN and hello to VPN by Google
Google Fi offers a variety of perks for being a member, including access to the company's VPN. If you commonly use this VPN, get ready for a few changes to come your way. As you may be aware, the VPN offered by the Google-owned MVNO is called 'Google Fi VPN.' At the same time, the Pixel 7 and up feature a built-in VPN experience known as ' VPN by Google .' According to 9to5Google , Google Fi is renaming its VPN to 'VPN by Google' to make branding more consistent. While the name is changing, it appears the service itself is staying the same, with no technical or functional changes for most Android or iOS users. For Fi subscribers who own a Pixel 7 or newer, you'll now simply use the built-in VPN. This built-in VPN is better integrated with the system, making it a more seamless experience. Meanwhile, subscribers with other handsets will continue with the service they're already using. One change that is coming is how you access VPN controls. Currently, you can go to Privacy & security in the Fi app to toggle the feature on or off. However, these controls will soon move to the Settings app. A message on the Privacy & security page reads: VPN controls are moving: Beginning May 22, VPN controls are moving to Settings. To make sure your online activity is protected, turn on VPN by Google now. If you tap on the 'Update VPN now' button in the message, the controls will be relocated to Settings. In place of the toggle, you'll now see a shortcut that will take you to where you can manage the feature.
Yahoo
01-04-2025
- Yahoo
The Google Pixel 9a is missing a crucial life-saving feature
Launched earlier this week, the Pixel 9a packs Pixel 9's magic in a condensed, more affordable form. With a lower price, though, the Pixel 9a loses some perks of the more premium Pixel 9 phones, including some defining Gemini AI features. Despite running the same Tensor G4 chipset as the Pixel 9 and the 9 Pro, the Pixel 9a loses on a life-saving feature: satellite-based SOS functionality. Google confirmed the lack to Android Authority, validating you won't be able to call or text in cases you get stranded without network — as you would be able to with the Pixel 9, 9 Pro, and the 9 Pro Fold phones. Google offers these services on premium Pixel phones in the U.S., Canada, UK, and parts of Europe. The reason behind Google skipping satellite connectivity from the Pixel 9a is an older modem. Unlike the Pixel 9 series, which uses the newer and more advanced Samsung Exynos 5400 modem, the 9a uses the previous generation Exynos 5300. The newer modem is what enables 5G non-terrestrial networking (NTN) that is used to connect with low-orbit communication satellites when cellular network is absent. Meanwhile, the older Exynos 5300 modem is what we have seen on previous phones such as the Pixel 7 and 8 series. Notably, these phones also suffered with poor cellular reception, irrespective of carriers or location, as well as heating issues due to the modem. It's unclear if Google has worked around the issued while deploying it in the Pixel 9a. While Google sent an update addressing the issue on Pixel 8 and Pixel 7 phones in April last year, they resurfaced in June for certain users. We hope that's not the case with the Pixel 9a but will know better when we have the device for testing. While Google's modem situation may appear similar to the iPhone 16e — another stripped down version of a premium, the $600 iPhone comes with satellite connectivity with Apple's in-house C1 modem. More interestingly, even while the modem doesn't support mmWave 5G spectrum, it doesn't fall far behind the iPhone 16 in network speeds in most testing scenarios.
