Does Samsung Smart Switch Transfer Everything? A Detailed Guide

"I have upgraded my Note 10+ to the S23 Ultra, and I would like to know what the Smart Switch transfers exactly. Will it transfer everything from my old device (like apps, settings, in-app data, secure folder files, paired Bluetooth devices, side-loaded apps, logins, etc)? Is there stuff that won't transfer?"

- From Reddit

Switching to a new phone can be exciting but also daunting, especially when it comes to transferring all your important data. Samsung Smart Switch is often recommended as a go-to solution for Samsung users, but one crucial question remains: Does Samsung Smart Switch transfer apps? Does Samsung Smart Switch transfer everything?

In this article, we'll explore the capabilities and limitations of Samsung Smart Switch in detail, provide a step-by-step guide on how to use it effectively and introduce some alternative tools to ensure a smooth transition to your new phone.

Part 1. Does Samsung Smart Switch Transfer Everything?

Samsung Smart Switch is versatile, but the types of data it can transfer vary depending on the source device. Below is a breakdown of what it supports when transferring data from Samsung to Samsung, non-Samsung Android to Samsung, and iPhone to Samsung.

From Samsung to Samsung

When both the old and new devices are Samsung phones, Smart Switch supports transferring the widest range of data, including:

• Contacts and Call Logs
• Messages (SMS/MMS)
• Media Files: Photos, videos, music, and documents.
• Apps: Most apps can be transferred, and they will automatically download from the Google Play Store.
• Device Settings: Home screen layout, Wi-Fi settings, alarms, etc.
• Calendars and Notes: Includes Samsung Calendar and Samsung Notes.
• Samsung-Specific Content: Such as Galaxy themes, keyboard settings, and Samsung Pay data (requires verification).

From Non-Samsung Android to Samsung

For other Android brands, Smart Switch supports the most common data types, but some Samsung-specific features may not transfer. Here's what you can expect:

• Contacts and Messages: Fully supported.
• Media Files: Photos, videos, music, and other downloadable files.
• Apps: Compatible apps will download, but settings or in-app data won't transfer.
• Device Settings: Limited transfer of settings like alarms and Wi-Fi.
• Notes and Calendars: Non-Samsung apps or formats may need manual adjustments or third-party support.

From iPhone to Samsung

When transferring from iPhone to Samsung, the data type support depends on how it's backed up (iCloud or local backup). Here's what Smart Switch can handle:

• Contacts: Fully supported via iCloud or USB cable.
• Messages: SMS and iMessages can be transferred if using iCloud.
• Media Files: Photos and videos from Camera Roll are supported. DRM-protected content like iTunes purchases will not transfer.
• Apps: Only apps available on the Google Play Store will be suggested for download.
• Calendars: iCloud-synced calendars can be moved.
• Bookmarks: Web browser bookmarks from Safari can be synced.

Part 2. What Does Samsung Smart Switch Not Transfer?

While Samsung Smart Switch covers most data types, some limitations exist:

• Game App Data: Progress, saved files, or in-app purchases in games are not included.
• DRM-Protected Content: Digital Rights Management (DRM) content, like purchased music or videos, cannot be transferred.
• Saved Passwords: Credentials for Wi-Fi, social media, or other accounts need to be re-entered manually.
• Application Data: Data stored locally within apps (e.g., WhatsApp chats) is not included unless separately backed up.

Part 3. How Does Samsung Smart Switch Work?

Samsung Smart Switch simplifies the data migration process with intuitive steps and flexible transfer methods. Now, let's walk through the process of using Samsung Smart Switch.

Step 1. Download and install the app on both your old and new devices.

Step 2. Connect both devices via Wi-Fi.

Step 3. On your old phone, choose "Send data", and "Recieve data" on your new Samsung Galaxy S24. Then, select "Wireless" to link two devices.

Step 4. Open the app and select the data types you want to transfer. After that, confirm your selection and begin the process.

Part 4. Smart Switch Alternatives to Transfer Data to Samsung Devices

If Samsung Smart Switch doesn't meet your needs, here are two reliable alternatives:

Alternative 1. Coolmuster Mobile Transfer

Coolmuster Mobile Transfer is a professional tool designed to transfer data between devices seamlessly. It supports a broader range of data types and devices, making it an excellent alternative to Samsung Smart Switch.

Key features of Coolmuster Mobile Transfer:

• 4 transfer modes: Android to Android, iOS to Android, iOS to iOS, and Android to iOS.
• Support contacts, messages, call logs, photos, videos, music, apps, and more.
• Fully work with Android and iOS devices, including Samsung, Xiaomi, Huawei, Sony, OPPO, iPhone 16, and more.
• Simplify the process with an intuitive interface.
• Ensure quick and efficient data migration.

Here is the step-by-step guide to using the Samsung Smart Switch alternative to transfer from Samsung to Samsung:

01Download and install Mobile Transfer on your computer.

Free Download for PC

 

Free Download for Mac

02Connect both devices to the computer via USB cables or Wi-Fi. Make sure the old Samsung device is in the Source device; if not, click the "Flip" button to change. (iOS devices can connect by USB cable.)

03Now, you can see all the data on your old device. Tick the data that you want to transfer and hit "Start Copy" to begin the transfer.

Video guide

Alternative 2. Cloud Service

Google Drive is a cloud-based storage solution that allows you to back up and restore data easily. While it may not be as fast as direct transfer methods, it offers a flexible and accessible option for data migration. Here is how it works:

Step 1. Download the Google Drive app on your devices.

Step 2. Open Google Drive on your old device and sign into your Google account.

Step 3. Hit the "+" icon and choose "Upload" to upload the files you want to transfer.

Step 4. On your new device, log into the same Google account.

Step 5. Download the uploaded files to your new device.

Last Words

Samsung Smart Switch is a fantastic tool for transferring a wide range of data quickly and efficiently, especially for Samsung users. However, it doesn't transfer everything - such as DRM-protected content, app data, or passwords.

For a truly comprehensive transfer, pairing Smart Switch with a tool like Coolmuster Mobile Transfer ensures nothing is left behind. With the right preparation and tools, you can enjoy your new device without worrying about losing valuable data.

Related Articles:

A Detailed Samsung Smart Switch Review with the Best Alternative and Everything

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How Long Does Smart Switch Take? An Ultimate Guide in 2024

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