As a professional phone tester, I frequently switch devices which means my SIM card rarely stays in one phone for more than a month.
Over the past year, I’ve changed smartphones around 10 times and over the last five years, I’ve switched devices more than 50 times. That’s quite a lot!
Switching from one Android phone to another has become easier than ever. Simply connect your two devices wirelessly or via USB-C, and most of the data transfer is handled for you. The only thing you need to worry about are messaging apps like WhatsApp, which require a separate backup.
However, the work doesn’t end once you reach the home screen. In many ways, it’s just the beginning.
The process of fine-tuning and customizing everything to your preferences can be time-consuming, but the good news is you only have to do it once. This also helps avoid any unpleasant surprises later on.
But be prepared – these 11 steps usually take me about an hour to complete. So, make sure you have enough time set aside if you decide to follow along.
These steps are specific to Google Pixel or Samsung Galaxy phones, and the process may vary if you’re using a different type of Android phone or an iPhone.
Regardless of the device you’re using, it’s worth reviewing these options before fully settling into your new phone.
Set up WhatsApp and restore backup
Every time I switch phones, setting up WhatsApp is a top priority. It’s the only app I use that requires manual backup and login, as it’s tied to your main phone.
Transferring your SIM card doesn’t affect WhatsApp; you have to back up on your old phone to Google Drive, log in on the new phone, and then load the backup.
If you receive any messages during this process, they won’t be transferred. But once it’s done, I always feel much more at ease.
Uninstall or disable unwanted apps
Bloatware is a common issue on phones today, with pre-installed apps that you may not want to use. While some apps can be uninstalled from the Play Store, others, including first-party apps, need to be disabled.
For example, I disable the YouTube app on my phone to reduce distractions. On Google Pixel phones, you can press and hold the app, tap ‘App info,’ and then ‘Disable.’ On Samsung Galaxy devices, it’s even quicker – just press and hold, then choose ‘Disable.’
Ignore any warnings about the app not functioning as intended – that’s the goal when disabling unwanted apps.
Edit default apps
When I switched to the Samsung Galaxy S25 FE, I found some default app suggestions to be less than ideal. I prefer using Chrome over Samsung Internet and Google Wallet over Samsung Wallet.
Changing default apps on both Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy phones is straightforward. Simply go to Settings > Apps > Default apps and adjust the settings, including the ‘Home app’ if you want a different launcher.
Turn off Google Discover feed next to home screen
The Google Discover feed, often seen when swiping right from the home screen, can be a distraction. While the curated articles can be interesting, I found myself mindlessly scrolling through them, wasting time.
To disable the Google Discover feed on Google Pixel phones, press and hold an empty space on the home screen, go to ‘Home settings,’ and ensure the ‘Swipe to access Google app’ toggle is off. On Samsung Galaxy phones, press and hold an empty space on the home screen, swipe right, and turn off the ‘Media page’ toggle.
Turn off vibrations
Advanced vibration motors on phones can provide realistic haptic feedback, but it’s not for everyone. Disabling vibrations can help maintain a silent phone, with only the necessary ringtone for calls.
To disable vibrations on Google Pixel phones, go to Settings > Sound and vibration > Vibration and haptics and turn off the ‘Use vibration and haptics’ toggle. On Samsung Galaxy phones, adjust the vibration settings in Settings > Sounds and vibration to minimize or disable vibrations.
Turn off system sounds
System sounds such as dial pad tones or screen locking sounds may not be necessary for everyone. Disabling these system sounds can help create a quieter phone experience.
On Google Pixel phones, navigate to Settings > Sound and vibration and disable various system sound toggles. On Samsung Galaxy phones, adjust system sound settings in Settings > Sounds and vibration to reduce or disable system sounds.
Install and enable Gboard (if necessary)
Google’s Gboard is a popular keyboard choice for many Android users due to its design and customization options. If your Samsung phone comes with Samsung Keyboard enabled by default, you can switch to Gboard for a different typing experience.
Download Gboard from the Play Store, enable it in the settings, and set it as the default keyboard for a seamless typing experience.
Add face unlock or fingerprint (if not done during setup)
Setting up biometric security features like face unlock or fingerprint can enhance the security of your device. Ensure you have these features enabled to protect your phone and data.
To set up face unlock or fingerprint on Google Pixel or Samsung Galaxy phones, go to the security settings and follow the on-screen instructions to register your biometric data.
Sign in to all necessary apps
Signing in to all your apps after setting up a new phone may seem tedious, but it ensures you have instant access when needed. Avoid the hassle of being logged out of essential apps by signing in proactively.
Being logged out of apps like Uber or banking apps when you need them urgently can be frustrating, so taking the time to sign in initially is worth it.
Customize the home screen
Customizing the home screen to your preferences can enhance your overall smartphone experience. From changing wallpapers to adding widgets and organizing apps, the home screen is where you interact with your phone the most.
Long-press on an empty space on the home screen of your Google Pixel or Samsung Galaxy phone to access customization options like wallpapers, themes, widgets, and more. Consider using a different launcher for additional customization options.
Check for software updates
Keeping your phone up to date with the latest software ensures you have access to new features and security updates. Check for software updates regularly to maintain the optimal performance of your device.
On Google Pixel phones, go to Settings > System > Software updates. On Samsung Galaxy phones, navigate to Settings > Software update to check for and install any available updates.
