An Easier Way to Switch to the New Galaxy Z Fold8

Getting a new phone should be exciting, but moving data from an existing device can sometimes feel like a hassle. For users switching from iOS to Galaxy, being able to transfer existing data and settings across easily is an important part of the experience.

Smart Switch is Samsung’s data transfer app[1] that allows users to move contacts, photos, videos, messages, apps, settings and more from an Android or iOS device to a new Galaxy device. With One UI 9 on the new eighth-generation Galaxy Z series, Smart Switch makes switching devices easier and more seamless than before. Quick Share has also been enhanced, making it easier to share files with friends, family and colleagues using different platforms.

Start Switching With Just a QR Code

With One UI 9, users no longer need to install the Smart Switch app separately on their iOS device. By simply scanning the QR code displayed on their new Galaxy, they can start transferring data through Smart Switch.

The updated Smart Switch also makes it easier to connect wirelessly. The two devices can connect without users needing to find the right cable or adapter before getting their new phone set up.

Bring More from Your Old Phone With You

With One UI 9, Smart Switch has expanded the types of data that can move from iOS devices to Galaxy. In addition to previously supported data such as photos, messages, contacts, calendars and apps, users can also transfer passwords and passkeys, call history, accessibility settings and eSIM information.

These may be less visible than a photo library, but they can make a big difference to how quickly a new device feels ready to use. A saved password means one less account to set up again. Bringing over accessibility settings can reduce the need to recreate a personalized experience. eSIM information can also be transferred, making it easier to continue using an existing mobile setup.

Make Galaxy Feel More Familiar

Whether switching to Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Z Fold8 or Z Flip8, users can make their new device feel familiar from the start. Beyond transferring data, they can adjust key settings such as Swipe gestures and Home screen layout to suit the way they use their phone. With the UI customization app Good Lock, users can also personalize the Home screen, app switching and more, giving them greater freedom to use Galaxy in the way that works best for them.

For those switching from iOS to Galaxy, these options can help recreate familiar ways of navigating and organizing their previous smartphone, reducing the adjustment that can come with moving to a new environment. This helps users settle into their new Galaxy more comfortably and naturally from the start.

Keep Sharing After the Switch

Changing smartphones does not mean everyone around a user changes theirs too.

Friends, family and colleagues may continue using different devices, which makes cross-platform sharing an important part of the experience long after setup is finished. Devices running One UI 9 and One UI 8.5 can benefit from an enhanced cross-device sharing experience[2] with Quick Share. With AirDrop compatibility, Quick Share makes it easier to share files between Galaxy and iOS devices.[3]

Choosing a new smartphone should come down to the experience people want next. By simplifying how the switch begins, expanding what can move across and making it easier to keep sharing afterwards, Samsung is reducing more of the practical barriers between smartphone ecosystems.

The result is a simpler way to move to Galaxy, while bringing more of what already matters along for the journey.

[1] Wired transfers from Android™ devices require the receiving device to have Android™ 5.0 or later and the sending device to have Android™ 5.0 or later. Transfers can be completed without a cable through a wireless connection. For wireless connections, the receiving device must have Android™ 5.0 or later and the sending device must have Android™ 5.0 or later. Open Smart Switch Mobile in “Settings” on the receiving Galaxy device or download the Smart Switch Mobile app from the Galaxy Store. Data, content and apps available for transfer may vary by transmission method.

Wired transfers from iOS require the receiving device to have Android™ 5.0 or later and the sending device to have iOS 5 or later. Transfers can be completed without a cable through a wireless connection or iCloud. For wireless connections, the receiving device must have Android™ 5.0 or later and the sending device must have iOS 12 or later. iCloud transfers require the receiving device to have Android™ 5.0 or later and the sending device to have iOS 5 or later. Open Smart Switch Mobile in “Settings” on the receiving Galaxy device or download the Smart Switch Mobile app from the Galaxy Store. For wireless transfers, download Smart Switch for iOS from the App Store on your iPhone or iPad. Data, content and apps available for transfer may vary by transmission method. Contacts, gallery, videos, calendars and reminders can be transferred wirelessly from an iOS device.

It is recommended to use a wired connection when transferring diverse sets of data at once.

[2] The “Share with iOS devices” feature is currently supported first on select flagship models, including the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold8, Galaxy Z Flip8 and Galaxy S26, with support planned to expand to more models in the future.