Google’s Post-Copy Android Switch Is Coming to More Devices in 2025

For years, switching phones—especially between ecosystems—was a chore. But Google has been quietly reshaping that experience. What started as a simple migration tool has now evolved into something far more powerful and user-friendly. With the launch of the Pixel 9 series, Google introduced a game-changing feature: post-copy transfers. This new capability lets users transfer data even after the initial setup, a move that promises more freedom and flexibility—and now, it’s set to expand to more Android devices in 2025.

A New Chapter in Seamless Switching

Gone are the days when transferring your data meant staring at a loading screen during the entire setup process. With Google’s enhanced Android Switch feature on the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro, users can now postpone certain transfers and get straight to exploring their shiny new phone. It’s a thoughtful touch, especially for those eager to test out the device without waiting for massive files or media libraries to migrate.

This post-copy functionality is fully integrated into the Pixel 9’s Settings menu under “Back up or copy data,” offering two choices:

• Back up data: Create a restore point for future use.

• Copy data: Resume or begin transferring data after setup is done.

How Does Post-Copy Work?

To kick off a post-copy transfer, users simply generate a QR code on the new device. The old phone scans it, establishing a secure Wi-Fi connection. From here, you can either:

• Use express transfer: Quickly copy any data not already backed up to your Google account.

• Choose manual customization: Select only the specific apps, photos, videos, or settings you want to migrate.

While currently Wi-Fi based, Google may expand support for wired post-copy transfers in the future—an exciting possibility considering that wired transfers are already 40% faster for iPhone-to-Android migrations, thanks to recent enhancements.

Ditch the Logins with Restore Credential

Another innovation on the horizon is Restore Credential, a feature aimed at eliminating one of the biggest pain points in phone migration: logging into everything again. Google is working on a system where app developers can store passkeys and sign-in credentials securely. Once this feature goes live, you'll be able to hop onto a new phone without having to remember dozens of passwords or go through endless two-factor verifications.

Although it's still in early development, Restore Credential is expected to debut on Pixel devices before expanding to the wider Android ecosystem.

While Android Switch is getting more powerful, it may not cover every user’s unique needs—especially if you want more control or are switching between non-Pixel devices. This is where the Smart Transfer app steps in.

Smart Transfer is a third-party phone switch and bookmark manager app that allows you to wirelessly move your photos, videos, contacts, apps, and more from iPhone to Android or between Android phones with ease. It supports high-speed transfers over Wi-Fi, doesn’t require login credentials, and works across devices regardless of brand. It is worth mentioning that it is one of the best bookmark manager apps of 2025. Whether you’re skipping the cloud or need to quickly send large files, Smart Transfer offers a smooth, no-fuss experience.

What’s Next for Android Switch?

With these improvements, Google isn’t just refining the transfer process—it’s reimagining it. The ability to migrate data post-setup, skip repetitive sign-ins, and benefit from faster performance shows how Android is catching up—and in some ways, surpassing—Apple’s seamless device-to-device transitions.

As this new wave of features begins to roll out across more Android devices in 2025, expect a switching experience that’s faster, smarter, and far less stressful.

Final Thoughts

Switching phones shouldn’t feel like starting over. Thanks to Google's upgraded Android Switch and complementary tools like Smart Transfer, migrating to a new device is becoming as intuitive as it should be. Whether you're a Pixel fan or using another Android model, better tools are here—and better ones are coming.

Have you tried Android Switch or Smart Transfer recently? Share your experience in the comments—we’d love to hear how your phone migration went!