Getting your new Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2025) set up with all your old stuff is pretty straightforward. Android 15 has some great built-in tools, and Motorola adds a few helpful touches to make the process smooth, whether you're upgrading from another Android or making the switch from an iPhone.
Start the Transfer During Initial Setup
The absolute best time to move your data is when you first power on the phone. After you select your language and connect to Wi-Fi, you'll hit a screen titled "Copy apps & data." Tap Next and you'll see your options. Choosing to copy directly from your old device is usually the most comprehensive method.
If your old phone is an Android, make sure both devices are charged and nearby. On your old phone, open the Google app and say "set up my device," or navigate to Settings > Google > Set up & restore > Set up nearby device. Your new Moto G Stylus should appear on the list, and tapping it will start the connection.
Use a USB Cable for a Fast, Complete Move
For the fastest transfer that doesn't rely on your Wi-Fi speed, you can use a USB cable. You'll need a USB-C to USB-C cable or an adapter for your old phone's port. During the setup process, when prompted to choose a copy method, select USB cable.
The phone will guide you through connecting the two devices. This method often transfers more data types, including your home screen layout and some app logins. It's a great choice if you have a lot of photos and videos to bring over to your new phone's storage.
Restore from a Google One Backup
If you don't have your old phone handy, restoring from a cloud backup is your path. This requires that your previous Android phone was backing up to Google One. During setup on your Moto G Stylus, sign into your primary Google account.
You'll be shown a list of available backups from devices linked to that account. Pick the most recent one from the phone you're replacing. Your apps will begin downloading from the Play Store, and your settings, call history, and text messages will be restored. You can check your old device's backup status by going to Settings > Google > Backup.
Switching from an iPhone to Your Moto G Stylus
Moving from iOS is handled right in the setup wizard. When you reach the "Copy apps & data" screen, choose iPhone as your source. You'll be prompted to download the "Switch to Android" app from the App Store on your iPhone if you haven't already.
Follow the instructions to connect the two phones via a cable or a QR code for a wireless transfer. Your contacts, calendar events, photos, and videos will come over. Your text messages and iMessage history will transfer as well. Since iOS apps don't work on Android, you'll need to download fresh versions from the Google Play Store.
Let Your Google Account Handle the Basics
A huge amount of your digital life is already synced through Google. Simply signing into your Google account on your new Moto G Stylus will automatically pull in your contacts, calendar, Chrome bookmarks, and many app preferences.
To see what's syncing and manage it, go to Settings > Passwords & accounts > Google and tap on your account. This is also where you ensure things like Gmail and Drive are set to sync properly.
Transfer WhatsApp Chats and App Data
For WhatsApp, the transfer process between Android phones is built-in. On your old Android phone, open WhatsApp and go to Settings > Chats > Chat transfer. Tap Start and then use your new Moto G Stylus to scan the QR code that appears. Your chat history will move over.
For other apps like games or note-taking apps, check within each app's settings for a backup or sync option. Many games save progress to Google Play Games automatically. For your new stylus, I'd recommend using the pre-installed Moto Note app for drawing and notes, as it's optimized for the pen.
After Everything is Moved Over
Take some time to open your key apps and make sure your data is there. Log into any apps that require fresh authentication, like banking or social media apps. Don't forget to pair any Bluetooth accessories, like headphones or your smartwatch.
Once you're confident everything is working on your new Moto G Stylus, remember to securely wipe your old phone. Go to its settings and perform a factory reset before you sell, trade, or recycle it. And a tip for your new device, always store the stylus in its silo when you're not using it to keep it charged and ready.
