Opening a new phone is exciting until a migration screen asks you to decide what stays, what moves and which accounts you can still access. A little order makes setup safer and reduces the chance of losing something important.
Charge and update the basics
Connect to a trusted network and follow the device maker’s setup instructions. Install available operating-system security updates as appropriate and enable automatic updating. Check the device’s region, language and accessibility settings before you begin transferring large amounts of data.
Protect the device early
Set a strong screen lock and consider biometric unlocking if you are comfortable with it. Confirm that device location and recovery features are configured according to your preferences. Be aware of what information those features share and how to disable them when selling the device later.
Transfer with both phones available
Keep the previous phone charged and nearby. Use supported migration methods and verify important photos, contacts and messages after transfer. Some apps, particularly financial, government and authenticator apps, require fresh sign-in or additional steps. Do not wipe the old device until you have tested access to essential accounts.
Review permissions and notifications
Take a moment to turn off unnecessary marketing notifications and question new app permission requests. Location, microphone, camera and contacts access should match what the app needs to do. Check cloud backup settings so you know what will be copied off-device.
Finish with a recovery test
Confirm you can access primary email, a password manager and account recovery options. Make sure a trusted backup is running and that the device is linked to your account correctly. Only then consider trading in or resetting the old phone, using the manufacturer’s official process.
Sources & further reading
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