Setting up your new Nothing Phone (3) is exciting, and getting all your old data onto it is the first step. Google's backup system and Nothing's own tools make this process pretty straightforward, whether you're upgrading from another Android phone 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 (3). After you select your language and connect to Wi-Fi, you'll hit a screen titled "Copy apps & data." Tap Next here to begin.
You'll be presented with a few options. The most common is to copy directly from your old Android phone. If you choose this, your new Phone (3) will prompt you to open the Google app on your old device and say "set up my device," or navigate to Settings > Google > Set up & restore > Set up nearby device.
Connect Phones with a USB Cable
For the fastest and most reliable transfer, I'd recommend using a USB cable. You'll need a USB-C to USB-C cable or an adapter for your old phone's port. The Phone (3) will detect the connection and guide you through selecting exactly what to copy over.
This method moves apps, call logs, contacts, messages, photos, and system settings directly. It doesn't rely on your internet speed, so it's great for moving large photo libraries or video files without waiting for an upload and download.
Restore from a Google One Backup
If your old phone isn't with you or you prefer a cloud restore, you can use a Google One backup. During the "Copy apps & data" setup step, choose to restore from a cloud backup instead of a nearby device. Sign into your Google account and pick the most recent backup from your old phone.
Your apps will begin downloading automatically, and your settings will be applied. Before you start, it's a good idea to check that your old device had a recent backup. On most Android phones, you can find this at Settings > System > Backup.
Moving Data from an iPhone
Switching from iOS? The process is built right into the Phone (3)'s setup. When you reach the data transfer screen, select iPhone as your source device. You'll be guided to connect the two phones, either wirelessly or using a USB-C to Lightning cable (which you'll need to provide).
The transfer will move your contacts, calendar events, photos, and videos. Your text messages and iMessage history will come over too. Since iOS apps don't work on Android, you'll need to download fresh versions from the Google Play Store after the transfer is complete.
Let Your Google Account Sync the Rest
A huge amount of your digital life is already tied to your Google account and will sync automatically. Once you sign in on your Nothing Phone (3), your contacts, calendar, Chrome bookmarks and history, and many app preferences will just appear.
You can manage what gets synced by going to Settings > Passwords & accounts > Google on your new phone. Toggle the sync on or off for specific services like Drive, Photos, or Keep Notes.
Transfer WhatsApp Chats
Moving your WhatsApp history is crucial. If you're coming from another Android phone, use the in-app transfer tool. On your old phone, open WhatsApp and go to Settings > Chats > Transfer chats. Then, scan the QR code shown on your new Nothing Phone (3).
For iPhone users, the process is different and requires using the "Move to Android" app on your iPhone during the initial phone setup process to transfer WhatsApp data. Make sure to follow the on-screen prompts carefully.
Final Steps After Everything is Moved
Take some time to open your key apps and make sure all your data is there. Log into any apps that require separate authentication, like banking or social media apps. Your game progress should be saved if the game used Google Play Games cloud saves.
Once you're confident everything is working on your new Nothing Phone (3), remember to securely wipe your old device. Go into its settings and perform a factory reset before you sell, trade, or recycle it.