How to Transfer Contacts from Android to Android Using Gmail?

Getting a new Android phone is exciting, but transferring important data like contacts can be stressful, unless you know the right methods. Fortunately, Google provides a simple solution: Gmail. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to transfer contacts from Android to Android using Gmail, along with other effective alternatives. Whether you're a tech-savvy user or a beginner, you'll find a method that suits your needs. By the end of this guide, moving your contact list to your new Android phone will be fast, easy, and hassle-free.

Part 1: Transfer Contacts from Android to Android Using GmailPart 2: Other Methods to Transfer Contacts from Android to AndroidPart 3: Summary

Part 1: Transfer Contacts from Android to Android Using Gmail

The most convenient and widely used method to transfer contacts is through your Google (Gmail) account. Since Android phones are deeply integrated with Google services, syncing contacts between devices is seamless and secure.

How to transfer contacts from Android to Android using Gmail? Follow the detailed guidelines below:

On Your Old Android Phone:

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Accounts > Google or Settings > Google > Account Services.
3. Tap your Google account (Gmail).
4. Ensure Contacts sync is enabled.
5. Tap Sync now to immediately back up your contacts to Gmail.

On Your New Android Phone:

1. During setup, log into the same Google (Gmail) account.
2. Allow Google to sync your data.
3. Open the Contacts app—you’ll see your synced contacts appear automatically.

This method is the core of how to transfer contacts from Android to Android using Gmail, and it's ideal for users already tied into the Google ecosystem.

Part 2: Other Methods to Transfer Contacts from Android to Android

While Gmail syncing is excellent, it's not the only method. You may want offline control, brand-specific features, or tools for transferring more than just contacts. Here are other top solutions:

Method 1: FoneDog Phone Transfer (Best Choice for Offline Transfer)

If you’re looking for a one-click solution that doesn’t require internet or cloud syncing, FoneDog Phone Transfer is a standout option.

Why Use FoneDog Phone Transfer:

• Supports Android-to-Android and even iOS-to-Android transfers
• No need to sign in to Google or upload to the cloud
• Also transfers photos, videos, messages, and more
• User-friendly interface, ideal for beginners

Phone Transfer Transfer files among iOS, Android and Windows PC. Transfer and backup text messages, contacts, photos, video, music on computer easily. Fully compatible with the latest iOS and Android. Free Download

How to Use FoneDog Phone Transfer:

1. Begin by downloading and installing FoneDog Phone Transfer on your computer.
2. Launch the FoneDog Phone Transfer software and connect both your Google Pixel and Samsung device to your computer using USB cables.
3. Once the devices are recognized, select the "Phone Transfer" option from the main menu.
4. Specify the types of data you want to transfer. In this case, select "Contacts."
5. Click "Start Transfer" to initiate the transfer process. FoneDog Phone Transfer will begin copying your contacts from the Google Pixel to the Samsung device.
6. Wait for the transfer to complete. Once finished, you will receive a notification indicating the successful transfer of contacts.

Even if you already know how to transfer contacts from Android to Android using Gmail, FoneDog offers a secure alternative when internet access is limited or cloud syncing isn’t preferred.

Method 2: Samsung Smart Switch

If your new phone is a Samsung, this built-in app simplifies contact and data transfers from any Android device.

1. Install Smart Switch on both devices.
2. Open the app and choose Send data on your old phone.
3. On your Samsung phone, choose Receive data > Wireless > Android.
4. Follow prompts to connect both devices.
5. Select Contacts (and other desired data) and transfer.

Samsung Smart Switch only works if the receiving device is a Samsung phone, may not transfer all data types from non-Samsung devices, and sometimes requires additional permissions or app installations.

Method 3: Export Contacts to a VCF File

For full manual control, you can export contacts as a VCF (vCard) file and import them on the new phone.

1. Open the Contacts app on your old phone.
2. Go to Settings > Export and choose to export to a .vcf file.
3. Send the file to your new phone (via Bluetooth, email, or USB).
4. On the new phone, open Contacts > Import > From VCF file.

It’s a manual process and not ideal for frequent transfers. Compared to how to transfer contacts from Android to Android using Gmail, this method lacks automation and can be slower for larger contact lists.

Method 4: Bluetooth Contact Transfer

If you’re only moving a few contacts, Bluetooth is a quick, wireless option.

1. Turn on Bluetooth on both Android phones and pair them.
2. On the old phone, go to Contacts, select the ones to transfer.
3. Tap Share > Bluetooth, and choose the new device.
4. Accept the transfer on the new device.

Bluetooth allows quick, wireless transfer of selected contacts without internet or apps. Ideal for small contact lists. But it's slow, limited in batch transfers, and less efficient compared to automated methods like how to transfer contacts from Android to Android using Gmail, which syncs your entire contact list instantly and securely across devices.

Method 5: Use Cloud Services (Samsung, Xiaomi, Huawei, etc.)

Many phone brands offer their own cloud backup services that include contact syncing.

Samsung Cloud

1. On the old phone, back up contacts to Samsung Cloud.
2. On the new Samsung device, sign in to the same Samsung account.
3. Go to Settings > Accounts and Backup > Restore and choose contacts.

Other brands like Xiaomi and Huawei offer similar cloud solutions. But brand-specific cloud services are often limited to the same brand, may require separate accounts, and lack cross-platform flexibility.

Part 3: Summary

Knowing how to transfer contacts from Android to Android using Gmail gives you an efficient, built-in way to move your data with minimal effort. But Gmail isn't the only path. If you want more control, FoneDog Phone Transfer is the best all-around tool, offering speed, simplicity, and flexibility. Try it if you prefer offline transfers, or if Gmail sync isn’t working as expected.

Free Download