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Backing up your SMS can be very useful to recover important information in case of phone loss, theft, or data corruption. Moreover, if you are planning to switch your phone to a new device, restoring your SMS messages, along with other data can be a time-saving process. In this article, we’ll explore different methods to backup and restore SMS on Android that do not just save your time but also help you recover your important data with ease.
Whether you want to backup and restore SMS for personal or professional use, you can get it done in a few easy steps. Keep reading and you will learn all the methods.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
To backup and restore SMS on your Android device, you will need a computer, a USB cable, access to Android SDK, and backup software. Some of the methods discussed below may also require internet connectivity and a Google Drive account.
What Requires Your Focus?
Before we begin, it’s important to note that backing up and restoring SMS on Android usually involves deleting all existing text messages and restoring them from a previous backup. Therefore, it’s essential to carefully follow the instructions for each method and ensure that you have a recent SMS backup.
Different Methods to Backup and Restore SMS on Android
Method 1: Using SMS Backup & Restore App
The SMS Backup & Restore app is a quick and easy way to get your SMS messages backed up and restored on Android. Here is how:
Pre-requisites:
- Install the SMS Backup & Restore app from Google Play Store on your Android device
- Create a backup file and save it on your device, SD card or cloud storage service
Steps:
- Open the SMS Backup & Restore app on your Android device
- Select "Backup" if you want to backup your text messages, or Select "Restore" if you want to restore them from a previous backup file
- If backing up, select the option/s you want to include in your backup file. If restoring, browse the location of the backup file and select the file you want to restore
- Choose location to save the backup/restore file, either on your device, SD card, or cloud storage service
- Tap on "Backup" or "Restore" to complete the process.
Pros:
- Simple and user-friendly interface
- No technical knowledge required
- Can backup and restore messages in different formats including XML, CSV, or HTML
- Can schedule recurring backups
Cons:
- Cannot backup SMS with attachments
- Not suitable for those with privacy concerns as messages are stored on external servers
- May encounter errors during installation or backup if the app is not updated regularly.
Method 2: Using Android Data Backup Service
Android Data Backup service is an inbuilt feature that allows you to backup SMS messages on your device. Here is how:
Pre-requisites:
- Ensure that your device is running on Android 2.2 or above
- Have an active Google account and internet connectivity
Steps:
- On your Android device, go to the "Settings" app from the home screen
- Scroll down and select "System" > "Backup & Reset"
- Enable the "Backup My Data" option, if not enabled
- Make sure your device is connected to Wi-Fi and your Google account is signed in
- Tap on "Backup Now" and wait for the backup to complete
Pros:
- Backup and restore is automated
- Can backup SMS with attachments and multimedia messages
- Saves backup on Google Drive, which can be easily accessed from any device
- Free of cost
Cons:
- Cannot customize backup file location or backup type
- Only backs up SMS messages along with call logs, device settings, and contacts, which can create a large backup file
- May cause privacy issues as your data is stored on Google servers
Method 3: Using a Third-Party Software
There are many third-party software available in the market that can help you backup and restore SMS messages on your Android. Here is how:
Pre-requisites:
- Select a third-party software like Wondershare MobileTrans, Dr.Fone or Backuptrans
- Install the software on your computer
- A USB cable to connect your Android device to your computer
Steps:
- Run the third-party software on your computer
- Connect your Android device to your computer using a USB cable
- Launch the software and click on the "Backup" option to back up your SMS messages.
- Choose storage location to save the backup file
- If you want to restore your messages, select the "Restore" option and browse the location of the previously stored file.
- Select the SMS messages that you want to recover from the backup file and start the restoration process.
Pros:
- Allows you to backup and restore messages with attachments
- Can restore messages selectively, which can save time and storage space
- Works with different file types, including XML, CSV or HTML
- Includes additional features like Phone Transfer, Data Eraser, and Screen Unlocker
Cons:
- May not be free, depending on the software you select
- May encounter technical issues if the software is not compatible with your device
- Some software may require rooting your device, which can void your warranty
Why Can’t I Backup and Restore SMS on Android?
Despite the availability of various options, some users may find it difficult to backup and restore SMS messages on Android. Here are some of the most common reasons and how to fix them:
1. Outdated Operating System:
- Ensure that your device is running on the latest version of the operating system to avoid issues with backup and restore.
2. Insufficient Memory:
- Ensure that you have enough free space on your device to create backups. If storage is limited, consider deleting unwanted data or transferring it to an external device.
3. Compatibility Issues:
- Ensure that the backup software or tool you use is compatible with your Android device.
Implications and Recommendations
Backing up and restoring SMS messages on Android can help you recover your valuable data quickly and efficiently. However, some methods may be more suitable for different user needs and preferences. It is recommended to choose a method after considering your available storage space, privacy concerns, and data size. Be sure to backup your messages regularly and keep the files in a safe location.
5 FAQs about Backup and Restore SMS on Android
Q1. Can I backup and restore SMS messages without third-party software?
A: Yes, Android devices come with in-built data backup options that allow you to backup SMS messages. However, to restore messages, you may need third-party software.
Q2. Can I backup messages to my computer?
A: Yes, you can backup messages to your computer by using third-party software that supports CSV, XML, or HTML files, or by connecting your Android device to your computer.
Q3. Can I selective backup messages using SMS Backup & Restore app?
A: Yes, you can selectively backup SMS messages by choosing specific messages, conversation or contact up to date and time using SMS Backup & Restore app.
Q4. What should I do if my backup file is corrupted?
A: If your backup file is corrupted, you can try restoring the file through different methods. If it still doesn’t work, you may need to create a new backup.
Q5. Can I backup and restore messages using Google Drive?
A: Yes, you can use Google Drive to backup and restore SMS messages through the in-built Android Data Backup service. However, it may not suit those with privacy concerns or need more customized backup options.
In Conclusion
Backing up and restoring SMS messages on Android is an important task that can help you save time and recover important data in case of phone loss or data corruption. There are various methods available, including using an in-built OS feature or installing a third-party software. It is essential to choose a method that suits your needs, privacy concerns, and available storage space, and backup your SMS messages regularly to ensure easy and efficient data recovery.