How to Transfer Contacts to a New Android Phone

Android gives you a few options for transferring your contacts to a new device. By default, everything should be synced when you set up a new device, but even if sync is disabled, it’s easy to move your contacts over.

The Easy Way: Sync With Your Google Account

Almost all Android devices sold outside of China come with Google services, including the ability to synchronize your contacts between devices. This should be enabled by default when you sign in with your Google account, but here’s how to make sure. We’re writing this guide using a Pixel 2 XL running Android 9.0, but it should look similar on other Android devices. We’re also using the stock Google Contacts apps, which you can download from the Play Store. These steps may not be the same on other Contact apps, so if you’re having issues, we recommend using Google Contacts.
Start by opening the Settings app and tapping “Accounts.”

Tap your Google account.

Tap “Account Sync.”

Ensure that the “Contacts” toggle is enabled. It must be on for your contacts to synchronize.

That’s it! Your existing contacts will synchronize with your Google account, and they’ll be there on any new Android phone you sign into.

The Manual Way: Backup and Restore the Contacts File

If your phone doesn’t offer Google services—or if you just want to copy things over yourself—you can back up a .vcf file that has all your contacts inside. Start by opening the Contacts app, then select the menu icon in the upper-left. Again, we’re using the Google Contacts app here.

Tap “Settings” on the menu.

Tap the “Export” option on the Settings screen.

Tap “Allow” on the permission prompt. This will give the Contacts app access to the photos, media, and files on your Android device.

Tap the “Save” button in the lower right.

You can move the .vcf file to your new phone by copying it to a USB drive, transferring it to a PC, or your favorite cloud service. When you get the file moved to the new phone, open the Contacts app again. Tap the menu icon in the upper-left.

Tap “Settings” on the menu.

Tap “Import” on the Settings screen.

Select “.vcf file” in the window that pops up.

Browse to the .vcf file from your previous phone and open it.

Your contacts will import to your new phone, and you can start calling and messaging your favorite people.