This guide walks you through transferring your SMS, call logs, and contacts from one Android device to another using the free and open-source app SMS Import / Export.
📱 What You’ll Need #
- Both Android devices
- The SMS Import / Export app installed on each device
➜ Download from F-Droid.org
You can scan this QR code to download the SMS import / Export app easily if you do not have F-Droid or Neo Store installed
🔄 Step 1: Export Data from the Old Phone #
- Install SMS Import / Export on the old device.
- Open the app and choose Export.
- Select the data types you want to export (SMS, Call Log, Contacts).
- Tap Export and choose a location to save the
.xmlbackup file (Downloads, USB thumbdrive, etc.).
📤 Step 2: Transfer the Backup File #
Transfer the .xml file to your new phone using one of the following:
- USB cable and a computer
➜ See File Transfer Guide - Bluetooth
- Wi-Fi file transfer apps (e.g. LocalSend)
- USB thumbdrive (via OTG adapter if needed)
📥 Step 3: Import Data to the New Phone #
- Install SMS Import / Export on the new device.
- Open the app and choose Import.
- Locate and select the transferred
.xmlfile. - Follow prompts to restore your messages, call logs, and/or contacts.
⚠️ You may need to grant the app permission to access and modify system data (e.g. set it as the default SMS app temporarily during import).
✅ Done! #
Once the import finishes, you can uninstall the app or switch back to your regular SMS app if prompted.
