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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 device you are transferring message from.
  • 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 devices 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 Restore or transfer.
  • Select I have my old phone and a QR code will be displayed.
  • On the old device, open Signal and tap on the camera icon.
  • Use the old device to scan the QR code displayed on the new device.
  • On the old device, tap Transfer account. 
  • Choose wether or not you'd like to perform a Signal Secure Backup prior to performing this transfer.
  • Continue on the old device by selecting From your old phone.
  • Physically move the new device near the old device and tap continue on both.
  • Ensure the verify code displayed on both screens match, then tap Yes, the numbers match and continue. 
  • Once the transfer has completed, you will see a yellow banner on the old device stating that device is no longer registered. This is expected, as you can only have one primary device registered at a time. 
  • You can then uninstall Signal on the old device (typically System Settings app > 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. 

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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