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How to back up or restore data on your Fairphone

Learn how to safely back up your personal data or restore your settings from a previous backup file on your phone. 

Backing up your phone securely copies your contacts, photos, and other important information directly to your Google account. This keeps your information safe if your phone is lost, stolen, or damaged.

ⓘ These steps require Android 13 or later. If you are not sure which version your Fairphone is running, see How to check and update your software version.

How to back up your data

To turn on automatic backups, follow these steps:

  1. On your phone, go to Settings → System → Backup.
  2. If this is your first time creating a backup, follow the on-screen instructions to select the data you wish to save.
  3. Tap Back up now.

By default, your phone will back up automatically over Wi-Fi after it has been idle and charging for two hours or more.

Back up using mobile 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:

  1. On your phone, go to Settings → System → Backup.
  2. Under Advanced settings, tap Back up using mobile or metered Wi-Fi data.

How to restore data from a previous backup

You can restore your saved files and apps while moving through the initial device setup process.

If your phone is already set up, you must perform a factory reset to restore data from a past backup.
Restore data from a Google account backup+
  1. Turn on your phone and tap Start.
  2. Connect to a mobile network: Insert a physical SIM card or tap Download a new eSIM. You can also tap Skip.
  3. Connect to Wi-Fi: Tap your network name to connect.
  4. When the screen prompts you to copy apps and data, tap Next.
  5. Tap Can't use other device, then tap OK.
  6. Sign in with your Google account.
  7. Follow the remaining setup process.
Restore data from another device+
  1. Turn on your phone and tap Start.
  2. Connect to a mobile network: Insert a physical SIM card or tap Download a new eSIM. You can also tap Skip.
  3. Connect to Wi-Fi: Tap your network name to connect.
  4. When the screen prompts you to copy apps and data, tap Next. Connect a cable that fits the USB-C port of your phone and the port on your other device. Alternatively, tap No cable? to restore your information wirelessly.
  5. Follow the remaining setup steps.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I back up my phone?+

We recommend creating a backup before making any significant changes to your phone, like installing an operating system upgrade or replacing a physical spare part.

What type of data is included in my backup?+

To check what type of data is included in your backup:

  1. On your phone, go to Settings → System → Backup.
  2. 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 how to back up your chat history in the WhatsApp Help Center for details.

Where is my backup stored?+

Your backup is encrypted and securely stored in your personal Google account.

 

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