A backup setting is more useful when you know what it includes. Make this check before erasing, trading in or giving away the old device.
Confirm the account and coverage
Google documents backup controls in the device’s Google settings, including backup details and a manual backup action. Menu labels can vary. Check the account you expect to use on the new phone and inspect the listed data. Google cautions that not every app backs up or restores all of its settings and data.
List the exceptions that matter
Our suggested checklist covers your most important conversations, authenticator access, downloaded documents and game progress. Open each app’s own transfer or recovery instructions where necessary. Do not assume that an app appearing in a list means every local file it has ever created will return. Record the recovery route while you can still use the original device.
Leave time for the transfer
Google says backup and restoration can take time and describes Android-version limits on restoration. Keep the old phone available until you have checked the new one. Verify important information by opening it, not merely by counting app icons. This guide does not perform a backup, test restoration or authorize erasing a device; the final checks depend on your account, apps and phone.
Go straight to the people who make it.
Google Android backup and restore guideSource check: 2026-09-29. General guidance; follow your device’s current instructions.