Google adds easier iPhone-to-Android migration in Android 17

Google announced on Wednesday a new migration experience built directly into Android 17 designed to ease the switch from iPhone to Android. The feature lets users wirelessly transfer more data types from an iPhone without needing to download a separate app, the company says.

By simplifying the onboarding process and supporting more data types, Google is looking to lower the barriers to switching smartphone ecosystems as it aims to attract more iPhone users. With the new method, users can transfer photos, videos, contacts, messages, and calendars, along with newly supported data types including their Google Account, passwords, Wi-Fi credentials, and even their eSIM, when moving from an iPhone to Android.

The upgrade has already started rolling out to select Pixel devices, and it’s also available on the new Samsung Galaxy Z Flip8 and Z Fold8 series, which were unveiled today. Google says the new migration method will also come to more Android devices soon.

Why it matters

A smoother, app-free migration path removes a common friction point for iPhone owners weighing a switch, giving Google and its hardware partners another lever to chip away at Apple’s share of the smartphone market.