How to Transfer Contacts from Old to New Phone in Kenya

Learn how to transfer contacts from old to new phone in Kenya using simple methods, whether you’re switching from Android, iPhone, or a feature phone.

Summary

Transferring contacts when you get a new phone is essential for staying connected. In Kenya, where network compatibility and mobile technologies vary, knowing the easiest and most reliable ways to transfer contacts—whether you’re using smartphones or basic phones—is crucial. This guide covers methods for Android, iPhone, and feature phones.

Introduction

Upgrading to a new phone is exciting—but losing your contact list in the process? Not so much. In Kenya, many users face the challenge of moving contacts between different phone types: feature phones (Kabambe), Androids, and iPhones.

This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to transfer contacts from your old to your new phone in Kenya, using free, accessible methods like Google account sync, Bluetooth, SIM card transfer, and mobile apps.

Detailed Product Information

Before diving in, let’s briefly define the types of phones commonly used in Kenya:

• Feature Phones (Kabambe): Non-smartphones, often with physical keypads.

• Android Phones: Samsung, Tecno, Infinix, Oppo, Xiaomi, etc.

• iPhones: Apple smartphones, less common but increasing in use.

Kenya’s mobile ecosystem also involves dual SIM phones, Safaricom cloud services, and regional apps like Xender, so solutions need to be flexible and accessible even with limited internet.

Method 1: Using a Google Account (Best for Android to Android)

If you’re switching between Android phones:

Steps:

1. On the old phone, go to Settings > Accounts > Google.

2. Ensure “Contacts” sync is enabled.

3. On the new phone, sign in with the same Google account.

4. Your contacts will automatically sync to the new device.

Benefits:

• Works across all Android brands (Samsung, Tecno, etc.)

• Requires minimal effort

• Automatic backups in the future

Tip: Make sure both phones are connected to the internet via Wi-Fi or mobile data.

Method 2: iCloud for iPhone to iPhone Transfers

Switching from one iPhone to another?

Steps:

1. On the old iPhone, go to Settings > Apple ID > iCloud.

2. Turn on Contacts sync.

3. On the new iPhone, sign in with the same Apple ID.

4. Enable iCloud sync, and your contacts will appear.

Note: You’ll need Wi-Fi and the same iCloud credentials.

Method 3: Bluetooth Transfer (For Any Phone Type)

Works well for basic phones and between different brands.

Steps:

1. Turn on Bluetooth on both devices.

2. Pair them by following on-screen prompts.

3. On the old phone, go to Contacts > Options > Mark All > Send via Bluetooth.

4. Accept the file on the new phone.

Limitation: Some older devices may only support sending one contact at a time.

Method 4: SIM Card Transfer

Perfect for users upgrading from feature phones (Kabambe) to smartphones.

Steps:

1. On the old phone, go to Contacts > Move Contacts to SIM.

2. Insert the SIM into the new phone.

3. On the new phone, go to Contacts > Import from SIM.

Pro Tip: SIM cards only hold about 250 contacts, so this works best for small contact lists.

Method 5: Using Mobile Apps (Xender, SHAREit)

Popular in Kenya due to low data costs.

For Android to Android:

1. Install Xender on both phones.

2. Open the app, connect both phones via Wi-Fi Direct.

3. Go to Contacts > Select All > Send.

For Android to iPhone:

• Use Move to iOS or third-party apps like Copy My Data (requires internet).

Tip: Ensure both phones are fully charged and close together.

Method 6: Via Safaricom Cloud

For Safaricom users with Android phones.

Steps:

1. Download Safaricom Cloud App.

2. Register using your Safaricom number.

3. Backup your contacts on the old phone.

4. Restore them on the new device.

Bonus: You can also store SMS, call logs, and media.

Warranty and Service (Relevance for Phones, Not Transfers)

When transferring contacts, there’s no warranty involved—but be aware:

• Some third-party apps may access your data.

• Always check app permissions before use.

• Avoid cyber cafes for phone transfers to maintain privacy.

User Opinions and Testimonials

What Kenyans Are Saying

“I used Google sync and it was super easy. No cables needed!” – James, Nairobi

“Transferring from my Kabambe to a Tecno Camon was easy using SIM card.” – Mercy, Eldoret

“Bluetooth was a lifesaver when I had no internet.” – Kevin, Kisumu

Pros (Based on User Feedback):

• Most methods are free and quick.

• Compatible with almost all phone brands used in Kenya.

• Minimal tech knowledge required.

Cons:

• Limited storage on SIM cards.

• Some methods need a stable internet connection.

• Older feature phones may require one-by-one transfer.

Final Verdict

Whether you’re upgrading from a Kabambe to an Android, or just moving between two smartphones, Kenya offers multiple easy ways to transfer your contacts. The best method depends on your phone type, internet access, and comfort level with tech.

👉 For Android users, Google Sync is the most efficient.
👉 For iPhone users, iCloud does it best.
👉 For feature phone users, SIM card transfer or Bluetooth works just fine.

This flexibility ensures everyone—from Nairobi’s tech-savvy youth to rural smartphone adopters—can stay connected without losing a single number.

FAQs on How to Transfer Contacts from Old to New Phone in Kenya

Q1: Can I transfer contacts without internet in Kenya?
A: Yes. Use Bluetooth or a SIM card for offline transfers.

Q2: What if my old phone is broken?
A: If the SIM is intact, insert it into another phone and transfer via SIM or Google account (if previously synced).

Q3: Is Safaricom Cloud free?
A: Yes, for basic contact backups. Additional storage may cost extra.

Q4: How many contacts can a SIM card hold?
A: Typically 250 contacts, depending on your mobile carrier and SIM version.

Q5: Can I transfer contacts from Android to iPhone?
A: Yes. Use apps like “Move to iOS” or “Copy My Data” for a seamless transfer.

Related: How to Check if a Phone is Refurbished in Kenya

Final Thoughts on How to Transfer Contacts from Old to New Phone in Kenya

Transferring contacts doesn’t have to be a headache. From SIM card transfers to cloud-based backups, Kenyan users have plenty of reliable options—regardless of network or phone type. With just a few simple steps, you can start enjoying your new phone without losing touch with the people who matter.