How to Move Contacts from Android to iPhone (Even After Setup) and from a Windows Laptop to a MacBook: Gmail Sync, Move to iOS, SIM and VCF Files

“Transfer contacts Android to iPhone after setup” and “using Gmail” are top searches because many people set up their iPhone first and then realise their contacts are missing. Here is how to bring them across.

Android to iPhone: Gmail sync (works after setup)

On Android, check Settings › Accounts › Google › Account sync and make sure Contacts is on. On the iPhone, open Settings › Apps › Contacts › Contacts Accounts (or Settings › Mail › Accounts on older iOS), add your Google account and switch Contacts on. Your contacts appear within minutes.

Android to iPhone: Move to iOS (during setup)

If the iPhone is new or erased, Move to iOS brings contacts along with photos and messages. See switching from Samsung to iPhone.

Contacts saved only on the SIM or phone

Contacts stored only on the phone or SIM won't sync. On Android open Contacts › Manage contacts › Export, save a .vcf file, then send it to yourself by email and open it on the iPhone to import all contacts. On iPhone you can also go to Settings › Apps › Contacts › Import SIM Contacts with the old SIM inserted.

Windows laptop to MacBook

Apple's Migration Assistant moves contacts from Outlook and Windows along with your files — see moving files from Windows to MacBook. If your contacts live in Gmail or Outlook.com, just add that account in System Settings › Internet Accounts on the Mac and they sync automatically.

Get help at Gadget Hub, Norwich Union House, 4th Floor

Gadget Hub is at Norwich Union House, opposite the Hilton Hotel, 4th Floor, Suite 15, Nairobi CBD (Mon–Sat 8am–8pm, Sun 10am–8pm). Bring your old phone or laptop and we'll make sure every contact arrives. The set-up fee, where one applies, is confirmed before we start. WhatsApp or call 0729 585 471.