How Do You Use Samsung Smart Switch? [All Options]

Part 1. What You Should Know Before Using Smart Switch?

If you’re wondering, “How do you use Samsung Smart Switch,” there are some things you must know before you learn the usage method. Especially if you don’t know what a Smart Switch is and how to download it, here we’ve given an overview of both:

1. What is Smart Switch?

Smart Switch is a Samsung app that helps you move data like contacts, photos, messages, and apps from your old phone to a new Samsung Galaxy. It functions with Android, iPhone, and some other devices using Wi-Fi, USB cable, or a computer. Before using it, make sure your new phone has enough space.

Also, it operates best with Samsung devices, though it also supports some non-Samsung phones. Keep in mind that some iPhone data, like paid apps or Safari bookmarks, may not transfer. For a faster and more stable transfer, use a USB cable, and wireless transfers need both phones on the same Wi-Fi.

2. How to Download Smart Switch?

You can download Smart Switch for both Samsung and non-Samsung devices, iPhone, and a Windows/Mac computer. Here’s how:

• Samsung Devices: Usually come pre-installed (check your apps). If it’s not there, you can download from Galaxy Store or Google Play.
• Non-Samsung Android: Get it from the Google Play Store.
• iPhone: Download from the App Store.
• Windows/Mac: Download the Windows version from the Microsoft Store and the Mac version from Samsung’s official site.

Part 2. How Do You Use Smart Switch to Transfer Data?

Proceeding further, here’s your answer to the query, “How do you use Smart Switch to transfer data?” We’ve shared three methods to use Smart Switch: via WiFi, USB cable, and a computer:

1. Use Smart Switch via Wi-Fi (No Cable Needed)

You can use Smart Switch to transfer data from your non-Samsung Android to Samsung and from an iPhone to Samsung using Wi-Fi. You’ll have to make sure both phones have Smart Switch and are on the same Wi-Fi. Though this method doesn’t require a USB cable or computer to operate, its speed is quite slow, especially for large files. Here’s how to use Smart Switch wirelessly:

From Android/Samsung to Samsung:

Here’s how to transfer data from Samsung to Samsung wirelessly and from Android to Samsung:

• On your Samsung phone, head to “Settings.” Then, choose “Accounts and backup.”
• Tap “Smart Switch.” Next, click “Bring data from old device.” Select “Receive data.”
• Choose “Galaxy/Android” as the old device. Select “Wireless” and follow the on-screen steps to start the transfer.

From iPhone to Samsung:

If you’re thinking, “How do you use Smart Switch between phones, when one is an iPhone and the other is a Samsung,” here’s your answer:

• On your iPhone, head to “Settings.” Then, choose “[Your Name].” Tap “iCloud.” Back up the data you want to transfer.
• On your Samsung phone, head to “Settings.” Then, choose “Accounts and backup.” Tap “Smart Switch.”
• Select “Bring data from old device.” Next, pick “Receive data.” Tap “iPhone/iPad.”
• Click “Get data from iCloud instead.” Sign in with your Apple ID. Choose the data to transfer. Hit “Import.”

2. Use Smart Switch via USB Cable (Faster and Stable)

If you want a faster and secure transfer with Smart Switch, especially for larger and sensitive files, then use a USB cable. There’s no risk of a signal drop or unauthorized access with this method. However, you’ll have to use a USB-C cable (or adapter for older devices), and many times, USB transfer isn’t supported between an iPhone and a Samsung. Here’s how to use Smart Switch without WiFi with a USB cable:

From Android/Samsung to Samsung:

Here’s how to use Smart Switch on Samsung phones and Android to Samsung via a USB:

• Connect the Samsung phones using the old phone’s USB cable. You may need a USB-OTG adapter, or use a USB-C to USB-C cable for newer devices.
• On the Samsung phone, head to “Settings.” Then, tap “Accounts and backup.” Select “Smart Switch.”
• Click “Bring data from old device.” Next, choose “Receive data.” Pick “Galaxy/Android.”
• Select “Cable” as the transfer method. Tap “Connect” if requested. Pick whatever you need to transfer. Hit “Transfer” on the old phone.

From iPhone to Samsung:

Here’s how to use Smart Switch to transfer data from an iPhone to a Samsung:

• Use a Lightning to USB-C or USB-C to USB-C cable (or adapter) to connect both devices.
• On the Samsung phone, head to “Settings.” Then, tap “Accounts and backup.” Select “Smart Switch.”
• Click “Bring data from old device.” Next, choose “Receive data.” Pick “iPhone/iPad.” Select “Cable.”
• Then tap “Trust” on your iPhone. Choose the data to transfer and begin the process.

3. Use Smart Switch on a Computer (Windows/macOS)

You can also use Smart Switch to transfer data from your computer to your Samsung phone. However, you’ll need to back up your Android phone to your computer, then restore it to your Samsung using Smart Switch.

For iPhone users, you must back up your iPhone to your computer using iTunes/Finder, then use Smart Switch to restore the data to your Samsung. This method is ideal for full-device backups without erasing old files and doesn’t depend on the phone storage. However, this method requires a USB. Follow the instructions beneath to use Smart Switch on a Windows/macOS computer:

From old Samsung/Android/iPhone to new Samsung:

• Back up your old Samsung or Android to your computer using Smart Switch. For iPhone, back it up on your computer using iTunes/Finder.
• Connect both the old Samsung/Android/iPhone and the new Samsung phone to the computer.
• Open Smart Switch. Tap “Restore.” Then, click “Restore now.” Tap “Select a different backup.”
• Pick a specific backup from the Android or choose “Samsung Device data” from the old Samsung. For iPhone, select “iTunes Backup Data.”
• Choose the data you want to transfer to the new Samsung. Hit “Restore now.”

Part 3. Best Replacement to Samsung Smart Switch in 2025

If you want to transfer data between an iPhone and a computer, then Smart Switch isn’t for that. So, Tenorshare iCareFone is the best replacement for Samsung Smart Switch in 2025 and for good reason. Here are its benefits:

• High-Speed File Transfer: 1-click to quickly transfer thousands of photos, music, videos, and more between iPhone and PC/Mac while maintaining original quality.
• Easy to Use: Simple interface for managing files, music, contacts, apps, and more.
• Secure & Encrypted Backup: Backup data (including WhatsApp) to a computer/external drive without iCloud/iTunes.
• File Compatibility: It supports 20+ data types (photos, messages, contacts, notes, etc.), and there’s no risk of data being overwritten.
• Cross-Platform Compatibility: Supports the latest Windows, macOS, iPhone, and iPad.
• Batch Processing and Selective Transfer: Batch-delete similar photos to save space, and import/export data selectively with one click
• App Management Made Easy: Install region-restricted apps (e.g., TikTok, BGMI) and update, uninstall, and manage hidden apps from PC.
• Smart Music & Ringtone Manager: Transfer music without iTunes, create ringtones and manage playlists effortlessly, and play iPhone music on PC directly.
• Private Virtual USB Storage: Secure space for personal files, only viewable in iCareFone.
• Extra Tools: Convert HEIC to JPG in bulk, AI wallpaper generator (Mac only), and iPhone test & developer mode tools.

Follow the steps beneath to transfer data from your iPhone to your computer:

• Download & install Tenorshare iCareFone on your PC or Mac. Execute it. Then, connect your iPhone via USB or WiFi.
• Once connected, head to the “Manage” tab on the left. Select the photos, videos, messages, etc, you want to move to the computer (hold Ctrl to select multiple).

• Tap “Export” at the bottom. Choose the format and save location. Hit “Next.” You can also move the files from your computer to your iPhone with the “Import” button at the bottom.

Part 4. How to Fix “Smart Switch Not Working or Stuck”?

While using Smart Switch, your data transfer might get stuck, or the Switch may not operate at all. If that happens to you, here’s how you can troubleshoot:

• Basic Checks: Make sure both phones are supported by Smart Switch (Android 4.3+ and iOS 4.2.1+) and have the latest updates. Install the newest Smart Switch version as well and restart both devices before starting the transfer. Furthermore, employ a good USB cable or connect them to the same Wi-Fi. Also, check that the new phone has enough space and keep both phones charged (at least 50% or plugged in).

• Connection Issues: Smart Switch might get stuck due to connection issues or if USB debugging is deactivated. To activate USB debugging:
• Head to ‘Settings.” Tap “Build Number” several times beneath “Device Information.” This will unlock “Developer Options.”
• Then, head to “Developer Options.” Activate USB debugging.

If your wireless connection is weak, check if your device is already connected to another one via Wi-Fi, which could cause interference.

• App Fixes: Accumulated cache files and data might halt the Smart Switch from functioning. So, you’ll need to clear it:
• Head to “Settings” > “Apps” > Smart Switch” > “Storage.”
• Then, tap “Clear Cache” and “Clear Data.”


This will restore the app to its default settings. If that doesn’t help, try uninstalling and reinstalling the app.


• Transfer Problems: If the transfer freezes, try moving your data in smaller parts. Focus on important items like contacts and messages. Keep in mind that Smart Switch doesn’t transfer WhatsApp chats on Android. Also, turn off iMessage when moving data from an iPhone.
• Stuck at 99% Fixes: Clear the Smart Switch app’s cache, free up space on the Samsung device you’re sending data to, and restart both phones.

• Advanced Options: If nothing works, you can try a factory reset as a last option. Just make sure to back up your important data first. You can also try other transfer methods or apps if Smart Switch keeps failing.

Part 5. Frequently Asked Questions About Samsung Smart Switch

Q1. Is Smart Switch really free to use?

Samsung Smart Switch is completely free to use. You can download it from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store without any cost, and there are no hidden charges for transferring data between devices.

Q2. Is Smart Switch only for Samsung devices?

Smart Switch is mainly made for moving data to Samsung Galaxy phones. However, it can pull data from many other devices, like iPhones, Android phones, and some older Windows or BlackBerry phones, and transfer it to Samsung. But you can’t use Smart Switch to send data to non-Samsung devices like an iPhone.

Q3. How long does it take to transfer files with Smart Switch?

Transfer times can vary depending on the data size, connection type, and device speed. Wireless transfers may take hours for large files and rely on a stable Wi-Fi connection. Employing a USB cable is usually faster but may require you to unplug your device from the charger. Transfers with external storage like a microSD or USB drive depend on how fast and large the storage is.

Q4. Can Smart Switch transfer all data types?

Smart Switch can transfer many types of data, like contacts, photos, videos, messages, call logs, calendars, and settings. Most data moves easily from Android, especially between Galaxy devices, including some app data.

From iOS, contacts, photos, and calendars transfer well, but iTunes-protected music, some app data, and iMessage history might not. Backups for “Secure Folder” are no longer supported. It’s also best to check what’s supported based on your device and how you’re connecting.

Conclusion

If you were wondering before, “How do you use Smart Switch,” we’ve explained the method in this post. Smart Switch supports transfer from Android, iPhone, and some older devices to Samsung using Wi-Fi, USB, or a computer.

However, it can have issues like slow speed, app errors, or problems with iPhone transfers. For a smoother experience, especially when moving data from an iPhone to a PC or transferring files selectively, Tenorshare iCareFone is a great alternative. It’s faster, more flexible, and gives you better control over your data.

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