Latest iPhone update makes switching to Android easier
With the latest software update for the iPhone, Apple is taking a big step forward in making it easier to switch to an Android phone. It introduces a new transfer tool that can move far more data than before. More importantly, the tool is integrated directly into the OS and does not require an additional app to be downloaded on either platform.
Powered by a new app migration framework, the updated Transfer to Android tool in iOS 26.3 requires you to place your Android phone next to your iPhone to start the transfer (via 9to5Mac). Both devices must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network with Bluetooth enabled. To pair the device, you must scan a QR code displayed on your Android device. If not, you can manually enter the Session ID and Pairing code.
As part of the migration, Apple says you can transfer photos, including Live Photos, messages, apps, and even your eSIM. Health data, paired Bluetooth devices, and protected notes and images are not transferred for privacy and security reasons.
Once you update your iPhone to iOS 26.3, you will find the Transfer to Android tool under Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone page.
Despite this being a major improvement, Apple does not mention this in the official iOS 26.3 release notes.
Previously, you had to install the Switch to Android app on your iPhone to migrate data between the two operating systems.
Google is working to upgrade Android’s migration game, too
Hopefully, the new Transfer to Android tool on iOS works as seamlessly as the Quick Start feature does when moving from one iPhone to another.
Your experience may vary depending on the Android phone you switch to. The tool may work more reliably with Samsung and Pixel phones than with some other Chinese brands.
A report from a couple of months ago highlighted that Google is also working on underlying improvements to the initial Android setup process to make importing data from an iPhone easier. However, since the changes were found in Android Canary build 2512, it will likely only go live with Android 17 beta.
