What Does Smart Switch Transfer? A Complete Guide for Samsung Users
Welcome to the home of the best How‑to guides for your Samsung Galaxy needs. If you’re moving to a new Samsung device, you’ve probably heard of Smart Switch – Samsung’s official tool for migrating data quickly and securely. In this article we break down exactly what Smart Switch can transfer, how to use it, and what you should keep in mind before you hit “Start”.
Core Data Types That Smart Switch Transfers
Smart Switch is designed to move the most essential content from your old phone to your new Samsung Galaxy. The following data categories are fully supported:
- Contacts and call logs – All phone numbers, email addresses, and recent call history are copied.
- Messages – SMS, MMS, and even chat histories from supported messaging apps (such as Samsung Messages) are transferred.
- Photos, videos, and audio files – Your camera roll, downloaded media, and voice recordings move intact.
- Apps and app data – Google Play apps are re‑downloaded automatically; Samsung-specific apps retain their settings when possible.
- Device settings – Wi‑Fi passwords, Bluetooth pairings, and display preferences are restored to match your old setup.
- Home screen layout – Widgets, folders, and wallpaper are recreated on the new device.
- Notes and documents – Content from Samsung Notes, Samsung Internet bookmarks, and files stored in the internal “My Files” folder are included.
- Health and fitness data – Samsung Health records and progress charts are migrated when you sign in with the same Samsung account.
What Smart Switch Does Not Transfer
While Smart Switch covers most everyday data, some items remain outside its scope:
- Secure or encrypted files stored in third‑party apps that do not support data export.
- Digital purchases tied to a specific device, such as paid games that require re‑validation.
- Two‑factor authentication tokens (e.g., Google Authenticator) – you’ll need to re‑register these manually.
- Carrier‑specific settings like VoLTE or network‑specific APN configurations that differ between devices.
How to Use Smart Switch: Step‑by‑Step
Method 1: Using a USB Cable
- Install the Smart Switch app on both the old and new Samsung phones. It comes pre‑installed on most Galaxy devices.
- Connect the two phones with a USB‑C to USB‑C cable or use the USB‑C to USB‑A adapter that came with your new phone.
- On the new device, select Receive data, then choose Cable as the transfer method.
- On the old device,
