Back up or restore data
Important
- These steps only work if your Fairphone has Android 13 or above. Learn how to Check and update your software version.
- Third-party apps and operating systems often use a separate backup process. Check the support resources or contact the developer for details.
Learn how to back up your Fairphone's data, or restore data from a previous backup.
Back up your data
Back up your Fairphone to securely store copies of your contacts, photos, and other important data in your Google account. This protects your data if your Fairphone is lost, stolen, or damaged.
To turn on automatic backups, follow these steps:
- On your Fairphone, go to Settings → System → Backup.
- If this is your first time backing up, follow the on-screen instructions to select the data you wish to back up.
- Tap Back up now.
By default, your Fairphone will back up automatically over Wi-Fi after it's been idle and charging for 2 hours or more.
You can also back up using mobile data:
- On your Fairphone, go to Settings → System → Backup.
- Under Advanced settings, tap Back up using mobile or metered Wi-Fi data.
Backing up using mobile data may be useful if you need to perform a quick backup and a Wi-Fi network is not available.
Restore data from a previous backup
You can restore data from a previous backup during the setup process.
Restore data from a previous backup
- Turn on your Fairphone and tap Start.
- Connect to a mobile network:
- Insert a SIM card or tap Download a new eSIM.
- Or tap Skip.
- Connect to Wi-Fi:
- Tap your network name to connect.
- To Copy apps & data, tap Next.
- Tap Can't use other device → OK.
- Sign in with your Google account.
- Follow the setup process.
Restore data from another device
- Turn on your Fairphone and tap Start.
- Connect to a mobile network:
- Insert a SIM card or tap Download a new eSIM.
- Or tap Skip.
- Connect to Wi-Fi:
- Tap your network name to connect.
- To Copy apps & data, tap Next.
- Use a cable that fits your Fairphone's USB-C port and the port on your other device.
- Or, tap No cable? to restore data without a cable.
- Follow the setup process.
If your Fairphone is already set up, you'll need to perform a factory reset to restore data from a previous backup.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I back up my Fairphone?
We recommend backing up before making any significant changes to your Fairphone, like installing a new operating system or replacing a part.
What type of data is included in my backup?
To check what type of data is included in your backup:
- On your Fairphone, go to Settings → System → Backup.
- Under Backup details, you can see what data is included.
How can I back up my WhatsApp chats?
WhatsApp uses a separate backup process. See About changing phones (WhatsApp Help Center) for details.
Where is my backup stored?
Your backup is encrypted and securely stored in your Google account.