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Android to Android Device Transfer

You can transfer your message history from one Android device to another Android device without using the Signal Secure Backups feature. This requires having both devices. The message history is not copied to the new Android device, It is moved.


Requirements

  • You must have the old Android phone.
  • Make sure both devices have updated to Signal version 7.68.4 or later.
  • Make sure both devices have Wifi and Bluetooth enabled.
  • Make sure your old device can open Signal and view your message history.
  • The old Android device needs a working camera. 
  • Make sure both phone are allowed to access storage.
  • Make sure your new device can receive an SMS or call to complete registration. 
  • Make sure both Android devices are physically close throughout the process.

How do I transfer my message history from an Android device?

  • On your new device, install and open Signal.
  • Select Transfer or restore account.

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  • Select Transfer from Android device if you have your old phone available. 

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  • On the old phone, go to Signal Settings profile_avatar.png > Account > Transfer account > Continue.
  • Physically move the new phone near the old phone and accept the alert on the new phone.
  • Confirm the 7-digit code matches on both phones and select Continue on each phone.
  • On the new phone, tap Continue registration and register the device.
  • On the old phone, tap Done to complete.
  • On your old phone, uninstall Signal from Android settings (typically Settings > Apps > Signal > Uninstall) or follow the steps specific to your device.

Additional Information 

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

  • No. The message history is not copied to the new Android device, It is moved. Signal in your old Android device becomes unregistered. 

Can I transfer from a tablet or Signal Desktop? 

  • No. Linked devices don’t support this feature. Both Android devices must also be able to receive an SMS or phone call to complete registration. Additionally, Signal doesn’t officially support Android tablets. 

What do I do if I don’t have my old Android device, it was factory reset, or its camera isn’t working?

  • Message history can only be transferred between Android devices if both devices are available and the old device’s camera is working.

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

 

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