To move Google Messages to a new Android phone, back up the old phone to your Google account, then restore that backup while setting up the new phone. Android backup includes your texts (SMS and MMS) and chat (RCS) messages from Google Messages. You can also copy everything directly with a cable or over Wi-Fi when the setup wizard offers to copy data from your old phone.
Quick Answer
Old phone: Settings > Google (or System) > Backup > Back up now. New phone: during setup, choose to copy data from your old phone or restore from the backup, then set Google Messages as the default SMS app.
Step 1: Back Up the Old Phone
- Open Settings and tap Google > Backup (on some phones, System > Backup).
- Make sure backup is on and check that SMS & MMS messages is listed under backup details.
- Tap Back up now and wait for it to finish. Wi-Fi and charging help.
Step 2: Restore on the New Phone
- Start setting up the new phone and sign in with the same Google account.
- When asked, choose to copy apps & data. Use a cable between the phones if possible, or restore from your cloud backup.
- Make sure messages are selected in the list of items to restore.
- After setup, open Google Messages and set it as the default SMS app if asked. Messages can take a while to appear.
Transfer Options Compared
| Method | Includes chat (RCS)? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Google backup + restore during setup | Yes | New phone must run the same or newer Android version |
| Cable copy during setup | Yes, on most phones | Fastest; old phone must still work |
| Phone maker’s switch app | Varies | Useful for moving between brands |
| Third-party SMS backup apps | Usually SMS/MMS only | May miss chat messages |
Setting up Google services on a new device? See using YouTube TV without Gmail.
Handing down the old phone? Start by signing out of Google Photos.
Switching carriers too? See how to port your number out of Google Fi.
Troubleshooting
- Messages didn’t come across: Open Google Messages, set it as default, and wait. If nothing appears, the backup may be older than the messages, or messages were skipped during setup. Setup restore usually can’t be run again without resetting the new phone.
- Chats show as SMS: Turn RCS chats back on: Messages > profile picture > Messages settings > RCS chats.
- Switching to an iPhone: Apple’s Move to iOS app can bring over message history during iPhone setup; Google backups don’t restore on iPhone.
- Photos too? See moving photos to another cloud.
Related: Track a Verizon order without a tracking number.
Related: How to back up Google Messages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Google back up RCS messages?
Yes, Android backup includes Google Messages chats along with SMS and MMS.
Do I need Google One?
No. Basic device backup, including messages, is free.
Can I restore messages later without resetting?
Generally no. Restoring happens during setup, so plan the transfer before you start using the new phone.
Summary
- Back up the old phone and confirm messages are included.
- Restore or copy data while setting up the new phone.
- Set Google Messages as default.
- Turn RCS chats back on if needed.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.