Back up before you switch. Ten minutes now. Zero regrets later.
A backup that was never tested is not a backup. This guide asks you to copy photos and a list of apps. It does not claim a full device image.
Before you swap a launcher, a gallery or a keyboard, copy the things you would be sad to rebuild. Photos, a list of apps, maybe SMS. You are not imaging the phone
Before you start
- A computer, or a USB stick, or a cloud you already use. Not a new account for this.
- Ten minutes, plus copy time for photos.
-
Step 1 of 5
Copy DCIM and Pictures.
Plug into a computer, or use Files to copy DCIM and Pictures to a stick. TODO: USB folder names on Pixel 8 and Samsung S24 need a device check; do not assume they match.
-
Step 2 of 5
Screenshot your home screen.
One picture of the layout you have now. You will want it when the new launcher is blank.
-
Step 3 of 5
List the apps you actually use.
The app drawer, not the full Settings list. Ten names is enough. You are not cloning a store.
-
Step 4 of 5
Export SMS only if you have a method you already trust.
TODO: no SMS backup tool is verified in v1. Skipping this step is honest. Missing texts are rare when you only change the default SMS app, because the threads stay on the device.
-
Step 5 of 5
Confirm the copy.
Open one photo and one screenshot from the destination. Then start the other guide. ## Undo it There is nothing to undo. You made a copy. ## Next guides Set up a new launcher, or move your photos.
Undo it
There is nothing to undo. You made a copy.