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How to Transfer Messages from Android to Android (Reddit-Approved Methods)
Table of Contents
Introduction
Switching to a new Android phone? One of the biggest concerns users face is how to transfer SMS text messages and even MMS (media messages) from one Android device to another. While Android doesn’t have a built-in universal way to transfer messages like iMessages on iPhones, there are still solid solutions—and Reddit users have a lot to say about it.
In this guide, we’ve gathered trusted, real-world advice from Reddit threads to bring you the most reliable and tested ways to transfer messages from Android to Android—without losing any important chats.
Why Reddit Is a Great Source for Android Transfer Tips
Reddit communities like r/Android, r/AndroidHelp, and r/GooglePixel are full of real users sharing first-hand experiences. The advice isn’t just theoretical—it’s practical and based on what actually works.
Whether you're a Pixel user, a Samsung fan, or just want something simple and effective, Redditors have tried it all—and they’re not shy about what works and what doesn’t.
Best Methods to Transfer Messages from Android to Android
🔹 Method 1: Google Backup and Restore
✅ Best For: Default option, seamless if your new device supports it
🚫 Not ideal for: Users who want granular control over what’s restored
Most Android phones today offer a Google backup option. It stores your SMS messages (not MMS by default) and call logs in your Google account, making it easy to restore them during the setup of a new device.
How to Use:
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On your old phone:
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Go to Settings > Google > Backup.
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Enable Back up to Google One or Back up by Google depending on your Android version.
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Make sure SMS messages are included.
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On your new phone:
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During the initial setup, sign into your Google account.
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When prompted, select Restore from backup.
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Messages will be restored automatically.
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Reddit Review:
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Many users on r/Android mention that Google Backup works fine for standard SMS but is inconsistent with MMS or group chats.
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A few users pointed out that some carriers’ RCS (Rich Communication Services) messages don’t always get backed up.
🔹 Method 2: SMS Backup & Restore App (User Favorite)
✅ Best For: Full message control, including SMS and MMS
🚫 Not ideal for: Those wanting 100% automation
The SMS Backup & Restore app is a Reddit favorite, consistently mentioned in threads like "How do I move messages to my new phone?" It allows you to back up SMS, MMS, and even call logs to Google Drive, Dropbox, or local storage.
How to Use:
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Install SMS Backup & Restore from the Google Play Store on both phones.
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On your old phone:
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Open the app and tap Backup.
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Choose to back up SMS, MMS, and call logs.
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Select the location: Google Drive, Dropbox, or local storage.
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Transfer the backup:
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If using cloud storage, just log in to the same account on the new phone.
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If using local storage, you can transfer the backup file via USB cable or SD card.
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On the new phone:
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Open the app, tap Restore, and select the backup you just made.
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Reddit Review:
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A user in r/AndroidQuestions called it "the gold standard for message backups."
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Redditors praise its customization and ability to schedule backups.
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Some recommend disabling the default SMS app temporarily to allow full message restoration.
🔹 Method 3: Samsung Smart Switch (For Samsung Users)
✅ Best For: Seamless, cable or Wi-Fi-based transfer between Samsung phones
🚫 Not ideal for: Non-Samsung devices
Samsung Smart Switch is the go-to solution for those moving between Samsung phones. It transfers SMS, MMS, WhatsApp (in some cases), apps, and more.
How to Use:
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Install Smart Switch from the Galaxy Store or Play Store if it's not pre-installed.
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Connect your devices using a USB cable or wirelessly.
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On your old device, select what you want to send (SMS, call logs, photos, etc.).
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Follow the prompts to complete the transfer.
Reddit Review:
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A Redditor in r/GalaxyS21 said Smart Switch "flawlessly moved all my messages from my Note 9 to S21."
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Multiple users confirmed that media-rich chats, like MMS, were preserved.
Top Reddit User Tips & Insights
Here are a few golden nuggets from Reddit threads that can really help:
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"Backup before doing anything else." – Always create a backup before you reset or wipe your old phone.
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"Don’t rely solely on Google." – Several users advise combining Google Backup with SMS Backup & Restore for complete coverage.
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"Use Wi-Fi for faster transfers." – Especially with MMS files, Wi-Fi helps speed things up.
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"Set default SMS app temporarily." – To restore messages properly, make the restore app your default SMS app during the process.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
| Issue | Possible Fix |
|---|---|
| Messages not restored | Check if you’ve given the app permission to access storage or SMS |
| MMS not appearing | Only some tools restore MMS—use SMS Backup & Restore with MMS enabled |
| Google Backup not found on new device | Ensure the same Google account is logged in and Google Play Services are up to date |
| Smart Switch doesn’t detect the device | Use a high-quality cable and enable File Transfer mode via USB options |
Conclusion
Transferring your messages from Android to Android doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you’re using Google’s built-in backup, the SMS Backup & Restore app, or a manufacturer-specific solution like Smart Switch, there’s a Reddit-approved method for everyone.
✅ Summary of Recommendations:
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For simple backups, use Google Backup.
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For full control (SMS + MMS), go with SMS Backup & Restore.
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For Samsung users, stick with Smart Switch for the most seamless experience.
💬 Redditors have spoken—and their insights are tested, tried, and trusted.
Still unsure which route to take? Just tell me your current and new phone models, and I’ll help recommend the best option for your setup!
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