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iOS to iOS Device Transfer

You can transfer message history from one iPhone to another iPhone without using the Secure Backups feature. This requires having both iPhones. When the transfer is complete, your message history is moved to your new device and deleted from your old device.  

Requirements

  • You must have the old iPhone.
  • Make sure both devices have updated to Signal version 7.89 or later.
  • Make sure both devices have Local Network permission enabled in settingsapp.png iOS Settings > Signal.
  • Make sure both devices have Wi-Fi & Bluetooth enabled.
  • Make sure both devices have Low Power mode disabled in settingsapp.png iOS Settings > Battery.
  • Make sure both iPhones are physically close throughout the process.
  • The old iPhone needs a working camera.
  • Choose a time when you won't need to use either device for several minutes.
  • On your new iPhone, install and open Signal, make your permissions selections, Select Restore or Transfer Account, then select I Have my Old Phone to see a QR code.
  • On your old iPhone, tap on the camera button on the top corner of the chat list screen, scan the QR code displayed on the new iPhone, and tap Transfer Account.
  • When the transfer is complete, your message history is moved, not copied, to your new device and deleted from your old device. 

Can I merge my message history and have it appear on both iPhones?

  • No. Your old device becomes the new one. Your old device will be unregistered. 

Can I transfer from Signal iPad or Signal Desktop to my phone? I still see messages on my linked iPad or Desktop.

  • No. Linked devices do not have the same account information as your phone. On your new phone, select the option to Register without Transferring to continue.

Are iCloud backups compatible with Signal?

What do I do if I do not have my old iPhone, restored my old iPhone to factory settings, or have a broken camera on the old iPhone?

  • iOS to iOS device message history transfer would not be possible without both iPhones and a working camera on the old iPhone.

Still need help? Check out our troubleshooting page for Device Transfers. 

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