How to back up your Android phone (Google, Samsung and PC)
Android’s built-in Google backup saves your settings, apps, messages and contacts. Photos need Google Photos turned on too.
The fix
Back up with Google (all Android phones)
- 1
Open Settings › System › Backup, or search Settings for Backup.
- 2
Turn on Backup by Google One.
- 3
Tap Back up now and wait until it finishes on Wi-Fi.
The fix
Back up photos and videos
- 1
Open Google Photos and tap your profile picture.
- 2
Turn on Backup and choose the quality.
- 3
Check photos.google.com to confirm they are there.
The fix
Samsung: Smart Switch to a computer
- 1
Install Smart Switch on your Windows PC or Mac.
- 2
Connect the phone with a USB cable and allow access.
- 3
Click Backup in Smart Switch.
Frequently asked questions
Does Google backup include my photos?
Only if photo and video backup is turned on in Google One or Google Photos. Check that your recent photos show at photos.google.com.
Does Google backup include WhatsApp?
No. WhatsApp has its own backup to Google Drive in WhatsApp › Settings › Chats › Chat backup.
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