Quick answer. If they live in Google or iCloud, just sign in. If they live only on the SIM or the old handset, export first.
A 'blank' new phone usually means contacts were never in the cloud.
MarketPalace Guide Center writes this as a solution walkthrough — the order we would use if we were in the room with you. We name the next click, then what to do if that click fails. We do not sell the TV, the kettle, or the plane ticket.
If a menu name on your set or phone does not match, use the closest wording and email hello@marketpalace.shop. We correct live pages when the path has moved.
What you need
- Old phone and Apple / Google password
In this guide
1. On the old phone, check where contacts are stored
Google account, iCloud, or Phone/SIM.
2. Android to Android: sign into the same Google account → Contacts sync on
Wait before you wipe the old phone.
3. iPhone to iPhone: Quick Start or iCloud Contacts on
Keep both on Wi-Fi.
4. Crossing platforms: export a .vcf from Google Contacts on the web and import on the other side
If it still fails
- WhatsApp contacts are not the same as the phone book. They come from the phone book.
When you are done, browse more in Phone & Apps or search the Guide Center for the next job on your list. A neighbour problem — a remote, a bill, a suitcase — has its own walkthrough.
Common questions
SIM still used?
Copy SIM contacts into the Google or iCloud account once, then stop using the SIM as storage.
