Switching to Pixel 9? Here’s How to Copy Data from your Old Phone After Setup

Among all the chatter about the new hardware improvements, and AI enhancements, the Pixel 9 series has another trick up its sleeves that let you copy data and restore it from an old Android or iPhone after you have set up the device. This feature is extremely convenient as you don’t have to reset the entire phone just to set it up again. But how does it work, what data does it transfer, and what are its limitations? Let’s find out.

Copy Data to Pixel 9? How Does it Work

The feature in question is called “Back up or copy data” which is available from settings. This new option lets you do the entire “copy from old device” process once you have booted up your new Pixel 9. It allows you to copy and restore your previous device’s photos, messages, contacts, call logs, and installed apps.

However, what stands out as a highlight for me is, that you canrestore your device anytime you want. And your data on the Pixel 9 won’t be wiped or overwritten. Instead, all thedata gets merged. I was skeptical that it would sign me out of my Google account, which was different from the one on my old phone, but itpreserved both accountswithout affecting the primary one, and my old messages, call logs, and images.

But a major limitation is, that you canonly copy files from a single device. As you can see below, I transferred data from an old iPhone and there is no option to add another device unless I reset the Pixel 9.

How to Copy Data to Pixel 9 After Setup

The process to use this feature is the same as you would go through the initial setup whether you are doing it with Android or iPhone. I tested the feature by copying my data to thePixel 9 Pro XL, and here’s what the process looks like.

From an Android Phone

From an iPhone

After the data is transferred, follow the instructions on your Pixel 9 to wrap up the process. This WhatsApp prompt does not show up for Android devices. You will have to manually go to the app and transfer your chats.

Things You Must Know About the New Copy Data Feature

Aside from what we have discussed above, there are a lot more other things about this feature that need to be mentioned. In fact, by the time I was done writing this article, Android’s Product Lead for Onboarding & Switching,Paul Dunloptook to X to discuss all the highlights of the new transfer menu. So let’s talk about them.

My Experience with the New Copy Data Feature on Pixel 9

When Google released the Pixel 9 series, the only thing they focused on was Gemini and all the fancy stuff that their AI can do. But features that solve a real issue is what I love the most as a tech reviewer. It’s such a small thing, but I am glad that the folks at Android cared to improve upon it. The entire process is quite seamless, and you can have all your mediafiles and apps on the new phone in a few minutes.

As someone who frequently jumps between devices, this new solution is a Godsend for me. And it’s not just me; I can think of many occasions where this would be quite handy. Like when setting up a new phone for an elderly or a child. If I decide to give my folks a new Pixel 9, they can readily start using it and I cantransfer data at a later timefrom their older phone.

Or if you decide to buy a used Pixel 9 later, you can check to see if it boots up in front of the seller before taking it home to copy data from your old phone. In India, where online retailers offer open-box deliveries, you can test the phonewithout worrying about resetting itagain, thanks to this Copy Data feature.

I hope this isn’t confined to the current Pixel series and becomes the norm for all Android devices. Small conveniences like these go a long way in improving the user experience. But what are your thoughts on it? Let us know in the comments.

Anshuman Jain

As a tech journalist, I dive into the ever-evolving tech landscape with a particular interest for smartphones, apps, and gaming. With a passion for sharing insights, my articles blend expertise with a friendly touch—think of me as your friendly neighborhood tech support.

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