How to Transfer Data to a Samsung Galaxy S26 from an Old iPhone/Android [2026]

Part 1. Best Ways to Transfer Data to Samsung Galaxy S26

Before you know how to transfer data from iPhone to Samsung S26, let's have a quick glance at all the ways first, via the mentioned table:

Part 2. How to Transfer Data from iPhone or Android to S26 (Step-by-Step Methods)

Those who seek to transfer data from an Android to a Samsung Galaxy S26 or an iPhone to an S26, this section covers 7 practical ways. So, review the basis description and detailed guide to determine which option is effective and seamless.

Way 1. One-Click Solution to Move iPhone/Android Data to S26 | Dr.Fone - Phone Transfer

Renowned as the fastest Phone-To-Phone Transfer tool, Dr.Fone - Phone Tranfer is compatible with Android 16 and the latest iOS 26 version. It allows users to share multiple data types between devices, including images, contacts, messages, and videos. Furthermore, you can have complete control over the phone transfer by choosing the specific data type you seek to move. After the transfer, users can preview the data in detail and determine the accuracy.

Unlike other tools, the steps with this phone transfer tool are fully guided, and even novices can share data in 2-3 simple steps. What makes it a reliable choice is that the transfer is 100% local, no data is shared, and the tool has no learning curve. With the option to transfer data to multiple OSs, users can receive weekly updates for all the upcoming models.

Guide to Share Data from Android/iPhone to Galaxy S26 via Dr.Fone

To know how to transfer data to Samsung S26 with this intuitive phone transfer tool, here is a detailed step-by-step guide for you:

• Step 1. Locate the Innovative Phone Transfer Tool

Tap the Phone Transfer tool in the "Toolbox" tab, then connect the old device (Android or iPhone) and S26. After that, use the "Flip" icon and determine the source and target devices.

• Step 2. Choose Data Types After Connecting the Devices

Once done, choose the data types from the list and tap on the "Start Transfer" button to move data to Galaxy S26.

• Step 3. Receive Old Phone Data on Galaxy S26

As you get the data completion alert on the tool, press the "OK" button and preview the received data in S26.

Way 2. Using Samsung Smart Switch

As another way to transfer data from Android to the Samsung Galaxy S26, consider using Samsung Smart Switch. If you wonder whether it's a reliable choice, you are not alone, as Reddit comments have also shown concerns, saying:

When my s26u does arrive, I plan to use SmartSwitch. Do I activate the S26u before using SmartSwitch, or do I transfer everything from my active S22u to my not yet activated S26u? - Androidfon

Ideally, this application can transfer contacts, video, image, and notes all at once, with the option to customize the list. Additionally, it keeps files safe and offers wireless and cable options for connecting to the target device. Since it supports receiving data from both Android phones and iPhones onto your Galaxy S26, here is how it works:

From Android to Android (S26)

• Step 1. Let's say you want to move data from Redmi to S26; tap the "Wireless" option on Redmi and open the QR code scanner.

• Step 2. After that, select the "Receive On This Phone" option on S26 and tap on the "Galaxy/Android" option.

• Step 3. After that, choose the "Wireless" option, and when the QR code interface appears, scan it from the Redmi. Then, choose the data types from "Everything" to "Custom" and press the "Next" button to receive on S26.

From iPhone to Android (S26)

• Step 1. On the iPhone, select the "Wireless" option, then open the QR code scanner.

• Step 2. On S26, select "Receive On This Phone > iPhone/iPad > Wireless" option and scan the QR code. Choose the data types from the given list and tap on the "Transfer" button.

Way 3. Restore Your Google Drive Backup

Those who wonder how to transfer data from S25 to S26 can use Google Drive or Google One backup. When you turn on the phone and sign in with your Google account, Android offers to restore your old phone's apps, messages, call history, settings, and Wi‑Fi. Thus, no cables or extra apps are needed because everything comes from the cloud, as demonstrated below in detail:

Things to Know:

• Restore Google backup only during the first setup or reset.
• Both phones need the same Android version or a newer one to restore.
• Restoration may take up to 24 hours in the background.

• Step 1. During setup, tap "Set Up Manually" and "Next" on the Copy Apps and Data interface, then choose the "Can't Use Other Device?" option.

• Step 2. After that, connect to the Wi-Fi network and sign in to the Gmail account. When the list of backups appears, choose one, then tap the "Restore" button after selecting the data types.

Way 4. Utilize Cloud Storage to Move Data

With cloud storage services like Google Drive, OneDrive, or Dropbox, you can also transfer data from Android to the Samsung Galaxy S26. Using these applications, you don't need cable or both phones connected together, as these services work across Android, iOS, and PC. Additionally, storing media in the cloud saves space on the S26. Those who prefer this way can follow the simple guide given below:

• Step 1. Tap the "+" button on Google Drive and choose the "Upload" option to select the media you seek to transfer. Once done, press the "Upload" button on the new interface to upload.

• Step 2. Sign in with the same ID on Galaxy S26, then tap the "Three Dots" icon next to the uploaded media to select "Download."

Way 5. Try Quick Share

Try the Quick Share method if you are asking for simple and selective sharing on how to transfer data from an iPhone to a Samsung S26. It does not require an internet connection or cables because it uses Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Direct. In addition, transfers stay secure, and the receiver must approve each file. Besides, it is built into Android, so you just have to select the Quick Share feature and device, as guided:

• Step 1. As you select media files in the Gallery, tap "Send," then choose "Quick Share" from the list.

• Step 2. Now, enable the Quick Share option in the settings and tap the device displayed in the "Send" tab. When you get a prompt on the S26, press the "Accept" button to receive the data.

Way 6. Use Instant Communication Apps (WhatsApp)

Those who prefer to transfer WhatsApp to Samsung S26 can use WhatsApp if you mainly want media, not a full phone copy. It lets you transfer messages, photos, videos, and account details in a simple way. Thus, this keeps your conversations safe and easy to access on the new phone, S26. The process is simple, secure, and guided ahead:

• Step 1. Suppose you want to move data from your iPhone to S26, so go to chat using your S26 number. Then, tap on the "+" icon located in the chat box and decide if you want to share photos or other data.

• Step 2. Based on the data type you choose, pick the media files from the gallery or Files app and tap the "Send" icon.

• Step 3. On the S26, simply tap the "Download" icon to save that media.

Way 7. Manual Transfer via PC

This is another way on how to transfer data to the Samsung S26 and is seamless among all. With this, USB cable transfers are fast and stable, even for large files like photos and videos. Additionally, you can choose only the folders you need, which helps avoid extra clutter on your phone. Since it also creates a safe backup on your PC, here is how you can perform it:

• Step 1. Connect your source and S26 device to the PC, then open File Explorer. Go to the source device's internal storage folder, select the data, right-click, and tap "Copy."

• Step 2. Go to the S26 folder now and right-click to tap on the "Paste" option.

Part 3. Tips for Smooth Data Transfer to Galaxy S26

Now that you know multiple methods on how to transfer data from S25 to S26, it's important to follow some precautions and tips. Therefore, this section explains 5 experts' tips to help you move data seamlessly without loss.

Conclusion

Summing up, right after the purchase of the S26, it's certain that you will ask how to transfer data to the Samsung S26. Therefore, this guide has explained 7 simple and effective ways that you can follow to move any media files easily. After the review, if you seek a single answer to the best option, using Dr.Fone - Phone Tranfer is recommended for a complete transfer in 3 simple steps across all OSs.