Google has announced updates aimed at making switching to Android or upgrading within the platform faster and more user-friendly. Over the past two years, Google has focused on refining the setup process and improving data transfer methods.
The company highlighted four major enhancements to improve the user experience:
1. Android Switch Across Devices
Google has collaborated with multiple phone manufacturers to launch Android Switch, a streamlined onboarding tool. This feature simplifies setup by guiding users through transferring essential data, such as chats, calendars, contacts, Wi-Fi settings, screen locks, and Google accounts. The process ensures users can quickly and confidently start using their new devices.
2. Faster Data Transfers
Switching from iOS to Android using a cable is now 40% faster compared to 2023. This enhancement significantly reduces the time required to transfer large amounts of data, making transitions smoother for users with extensive files.
3. Flexible Setup Options
Android now offers flexibility for both new and existing users:
- Explore Before Transferring Data: Pixel 9 users—and more Android models in 2025—can initiate setup immediately and transfer data later via the Settings menu or Google Play app.
- Express Setup for Android Upgrades: Users upgrading within Android can opt for express setup, transferring only on-device data while skipping cloud-stored information.
- Pixel Watch Integration: Pixel Watch users will receive prompts to transfer data to new phones during setup.
4. Enhanced Messaging Features
Google emphasized the growing adoption of RCS (Rich Communication Services), enabling seamless communication between Android and iOS users. Key features include:
- Sharing high-resolution photos and videos.
- Reacting to texts with emojis.
- Managing group chats by adding or removing participants.
Restore Credentials: Simplifying Account Restorations
Google introduced Restore Credentials, a feature within Android’s Credential Manager API, designed to simplify account recovery during device transitions. Notably, 40% of U.S. users reset or replace their smartphones annually, often abandoning apps due to the hassle of re-entering credentials.
Benefits of Restore Credentials
- Seamless User Experience: Users remain logged in and can access their accounts immediately on a new device.
- Immediate Engagement: Notifications and prompts help re-engage users right after device setup.
- Automatic Login: Apps using a BackupAgent can silently log users in after data restoration.
How It Works
- On the Old Device: The app generates a restore key after verifying the user’s identity, which is stored locally and backed up to the cloud (unless opted out).
- On the New Device: During setup, the restore key is downloaded from the cloud or transferred locally, enabling silent login in the background.
Apps can also detect a restore key during the first launch to sign users in, even without a BackupAgent. Developers are advised to delete restore keys when users log out intentionally.
Developer Integration
Restore Credentials integrates easily with passkeys, leveraging existing server-side infrastructure for seamless implementation.
Neelansh Sahai, Developer Relations Engineer at Google, stated:
Restore Credentials feature makes transitioning to a new device effortless and fosters loyalty and long-term relationships.