TRANSFERRING to degoogled phone

Basic Start-Up User Guide 3.1

  • Every network / carrier has there own procedure for Bringing You Own Phone / Device (BYOP). Most of the time, you can simply just transfer your SIM card to the new phone and be ready to rock. Also you can order a SIM CARD kit from whoever you want to use and then go through their activation process, transferring your old number to new SIM CARD. This is called “porting”.
  • If SWITCH FROM IPHONE: When you message other iPhones from your iPhone, they’ll communicate via iMessage when you’re connected to the internet. This is different from regular SMS texting, and if you leave iMessage turned on on your iPhone, many of your texts will still be routed through that service. SO TURN OFF iMESSAGE ON YOUR OLD IPHONE. 

There are many ways to accomplish this. If you are moving from IPHONE to deGoogled phone, checkout our TRANSFERRING TO DEGOOGLED PHONE page.

Messages/SMS & Calls Log Transfer, Contacts

  • SMS Import / Export easily transfers Messages, Call logs, and Contacts. It can be found on Droid-ify and F-droid. Just follow the instructions…it’s easy-peasy. You will need a way to transfer files from old phone to new phone, i.e. email, LocalSend App, cloud drive, or USB flash drive. Can also use Computer with a working cable that can connect to your phone.
    1. Download and Install the App on both phones.  On the old phone, you will need to download / install F-droid or Droid-ify to find the SMS Import / Export App, or direct download from IzzyonDroid and install the APK file.
    2. On the old phone, EXPORT messages, calls, and/or contacts to a folder of your liking.
    3. Transfer those to new phone via email, LocalSend App, cloud drive, or USB flash drive.
    4. IMPORT the files to new phone via the SMS Import / Export App.

transfer sms messages transfer call logs

Contacts (other methods)

  • If Android to Android you can simply go into Contacts -> Setting and select Export. They will be saved as an ICF file and can transfer that to new phone by email, LocalSend App, cloud drive, or USB flash drive…and then Importing that file.
  • Can be transferred with an APP called Smartswitch by Samsung or Smart Transfer, a File Sharing App by Aomata, LLC. This can work from Iphone to Android. These can typically be found on Apple Store, Play Store, and Aurora Store.

smart transfer

Photos or any Files

  • One easy way / APP is LocalSend. LocalSend is an open source app to share files and messages between nearby devices using the local wifi network. The communication between devices is entirely end-to-end encrypted via HTTPS.
  • Easy to send files / pictures between devices, at least Android to Android.  Can be found on F-droid / Droid-ify or if e/OS should be available in App Lounge.  Make sure searching Open Source…there is a check mark in settings to make sure searching Open Source Apps.  Or get the APK file on Github  https://github.com/localsend/localsend
    -> Make sure connect same wifi network on Devices.
    -> It’s also available for IOS but havent tested it. https://github.com/localsend/localsend

localsend

  • or use a USB-C to copy pics from one device to another. Pretty straight forward.

Transferring Data from iPhone to GrapheneOS or Other OS

Here are two practical methods for transferring your contacts, messages (SMS/RCS), call history, and photos from an iPhone to a GrapheneOS device (Pixel phone). These methods prioritize privacy and work well with de-Googled setups.

Important Notes Before Starting

  • Perform transfers after installing GrapheneOS (flashing wipes the Pixel).
  • Contacts transfer easily via standard .vcf files.
  • Photos transfer reliably as files (HEIC format works on GrapheneOS, but you can convert to JPG if needed).
  • Messages and call history are the trickiest due to Apple’s closed ecosystem. Full iMessage history often doesn’t transfer cleanly; SMS works better. Call logs are rarely fully transferable without paid tools.
  • Disable iMessage on your iPhone (Settings > Messages > iMessage off) and deregister your number at appleid.apple.com to avoid issues with future texts.
  • Use a computer (Mac, Windows, or Linux) as an intermediary for easier file handling, or peer-to-peer apps like LocalSend (available on both platforms).

1. File-Based Export + Manual Transfer (Most Privacy-Friendly, No Cloud Required)

This method uses built-in iOS tools and direct file sharing. It’s excellent for privacy-conscious users. Contacts: On iPhone: Open Contacts app → Go to Lists view → Long-press “All iPhone” or “All iCloud” → Export → Select All Fields → Save to Files app as a .vcf file. Transfer the .vcf file to GrapheneOS (via USB cable, LocalSend, or USB drive). On GrapheneOS: Open the default Contacts app → Import the .vcf file. Photos: On iPhone: Open Photos app → Select albums or all photos → Share/Save to Files (or use Shortcuts app for bulk export). Transfer files via LocalSend (peer-to-peer over Wi-Fi, no cloud) or USB cable to a computer then to GrapheneOS. On GrapheneOS: Use a gallery app (e.g., Simple Gallery from F-Droid) to view/import. Photos land in the DCIM or Pictures folder. Messages & Call History: Limited success. Export SMS via a third-party iOS app or use iTunes/Finder backup on a computer, then extract with tools like iMazing or iExplorer (paid). For GrapheneOS: Install an SMS import app like SMS Backup & Restore (via Aurora Store or F-Droid alternatives). Full call history is often incomplete or requires advanced SQLite extraction (not beginner-friendly). Many users report partial SMS success but recommend starting fresh or only importing recent important threads. Pros: High privacy, no third-party accounts. Cons: Manual; messages/call history are partial at best.

2. Computer as Intermediary (Reliable for Bulk Photos & Contacts)

Use your computer to pull data from iPhone and push to GrapheneOS. Contacts: On computer: Connect iPhone via USB → Use Finder (Mac) or iTunes/Windows Photos → Export contacts as .vcf (or sync via iCloud web if you temporarily use it, then export). Import .vcf into GrapheneOS Contacts app (same as Method 1). Photos: Connect iPhone to computer → Use Photos app (Mac/Windows) or Image Capture to download all photos/videos to a folder. Connect GrapheneOS Pixel via USB (enable File Transfer mode) → Copy the folder over. Alternative: Use Syncthing after transfer for ongoing sync (install on computer + GrapheneOS). Messages & Call History: On computer: Create an iTunes/Finder backup of iPhone → Use third-party software like iMazing or AnyTrans to extract SMS and call logs into readable formats (XML/CSV). Convert and import SMS into GrapheneOS using SMS Backup & Restore app. Call history transfer is spotty—some tools export it, but native Android dialer import is limited. Pros: Handles large photo libraries well; works offline. Cons: Requires a computer; some tools for messages are paid.

Additional Tips

  • Use Syncthing, DAVx⁵, or EteSync for ongoing sync after the initial transfer.
  • If you have thousands of photos, tools like Ente (E2EE photo app with iOS client) can upload from iPhone and sync to GrapheneOS.
  • iMessage limitation: True iMessage history (blue bubbles, effects) doesn’t transfer well to Android. You’ll see them as green SMS going forward.
  • Test small batches first to avoid data loss.
  • Avoid full “phone transfer” apps that require Google services or cloud accounts if privacy is your priority.
Tip: Method 2 is the most reliable for photos.

Downloading Your Photos from Google Photos

The easiest ways to download photos from Google Photos depend on how many you need (a few vs. hundreds/thousands vs. your entire library). Here are the simplest methods, starting with the quickest for most people.

1. For a few photos or small batches (Easiest & Fastest)

  • Go to photos.google.com on a computer (desktop browser works best).
  • Select the photos (hold Shift for a range, or Ctrl/Cmd for individual photos).
  • Click the three-dot menu → Download.

Tip: Hover over a date header to quickly select all photos from that day.

2. For Larger Batches (Hundreds or Thousands) – Recommended

Direct selection is limited to ~500 files, but albums support up to ~20,000.

  1. On photos.google.com, select the photos you want.
  2. Click the + icon → Album → Create a new album.
  3. Go to the Albums tab and open your album.
  4. Click the three-dot menu (top right) → Download all.

This method downloads everything in ZIP file(s) with original filenames and metadata preserved.

3. For Your Entire Library (Full Backup)

Use Google Takeout — the official bulk export tool.

  1. Go to takeout.google.com and sign in.
  2. Click Deselect all, then check only Google Photos.
  3. Click Next step and choose your export options (email link is easiest).
  4. Click Create export. Google will notify you when the files are ready.
  5. Download the ZIP files and extract them on your computer.

Additional Tips

  • Use a computer browser for the best experience — mobile browsers are more limited for bulk downloads.
  • Downloads go to your browser’s default Downloads folder.
  • Original filenames, dates, and metadata are usually preserved.
  • For de-Googled phones, transfer the extracted folders using LocalSend, USB cable, or Syncthing.
  • After downloading, consider moving your photos to a private self-hosted solution like Immich, Ente, or Nextcloud.
Best Practice: Use Method 2 (Albums) for most users. Use Google Takeout only when you want your complete library.

Last updated: May 2026 • Get Privacy Freedom

Transferring eSIM from Stock Android to GrapheneOS

Here are clear, step-by-step instructions for moving your eSIM from a stock Android phone to a GrapheneOS device (Pixel phone). These methods prioritize privacy and work reliably with de-Googled setups.

Important Notes Before Starting

  • eSIM profiles live on the phone’s hardware (eUICC chip), not the OS.
  • On the same device, flashing GrapheneOS usually keeps the existing eSIM.
  • On a different device, you will almost always need a new QR code or activation from your carrier.
  • Have Wi-Fi available on the GrapheneOS phone during activation.
  • Always back up important data first.
  • eSIM support is disabled by default on GrapheneOS — you must enable it manually.

Case 1: Same Device (Flashing Stock Android → GrapheneOS)

  1. Do not delete the eSIM on your stock Android phone.
  2. Flash GrapheneOS using the official web installer or factory images.
  3. After first boot and setup:
    • Go to Settings → Network & internet → SIMs
    • Enable eSIM support (may require a reboot).
    • Your existing eSIM should appear — toggle it on if needed.
  4. Test mobile data, calls, and SMS.

Many users successfully retain their eSIM after flashing on the same Pixel.

Case 2: Different Devices (Stock Phone → New GrapheneOS Phone)

Most Reliable Method (Recommended):

  1. On the new GrapheneOS phone:
    • Complete initial setup and connect to Wi-Fi.
    • Go to Settings → Network & internet → SIMs.
    • Enable eSIM support (phone may reboot).
  2. Contact your carrier (app, chat, website, or support) and request a new eSIM QR code for the new device’s IMEI.
    • Find IMEI in Settings → About phone.
  3. On GrapheneOS: Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → Add eSIM → Scan QR code.
  4. Scan the code and complete activation.

Built-in Transfer (Optional – may not work):
Settings → Add SIM → Transfer SIM from another device (keep both phones nearby).

Pros: Clean and secure.
Cons: Requires carrier cooperation for new QR code.

Troubleshooting Tips

  • Popular carriers that work well: Google Fi, T-Mobile, AT&T, Visible, Mint.
  • If activation fails: Restart the phone, toggle Airplane mode, or ask the carrier to re-issue the QR code.
  • Some carriers allow their app to be installed via Aurora Store for easier activation.
  • Dual SIM (multiple eSIMs + physical SIM) is fully supported on GrapheneOS.
  • Still stuck? Provide your carrier and device model for more specific help.
Recommendation: Install GrapheneOS on the new device first, then activate the eSIM. This keeps your privacy-focused phone clean from the start.

Official Resources

Last updated: April 2026 • Get Privacy Freedom

Visual Voicemail on GrapheneOS

Visual voicemail (VVM) on GrapheneOS / other OS’s may be tricky because the OS is fully de-Googled and uses AOSP (Android Open Source Project) components. Many carriers rely on proprietary protocols, Google services, or specific carrier configs that don’t fully work out of the box on GrapheneOS, even if basic voicemail (dial-in) functions. You’ve already contacted your carrier, so the issue is likely compatibility with GrapheneOS rather than an account problem.

Most Effective Solutions (Least to Most Invasive)

▼
1. Basic Troubleshooting (Try These First)

Toggle VVM off/on:
Open the Phone app (GrapheneOS default dialer or Google Phone if installed).
Go to Settings > Voicemail.
Turn Visual Voicemail off, then back on.
Restart your phone afterward.

Disable Wi-Fi temporarily, enable mobile data, and try activating VVM again (some carriers need pure cellular for initial setup).

Check voicemail setup via dial-in:
In Phone app > Settings > Voicemail > Advanced settings > Setup.
Note the voicemail number, dial it, set a PIN/password, and record/select a greeting if not already done.
Then re-enable VVM.

Clear cache for the Phone app (Settings > Apps > Phone > Storage > Clear cache).
Restart phone and test with a new test voicemail left for yourself.

▼
2. Carrier-Specific Workarounds

VVM support varies heavily by carrier:

T-Mobile (and MVNOs like Mint, Tello, Metro): Often problematic on Pixel 7+. Many users report it fails to activate in both GrapheneOS and Google dialers. A common fix is installing the official T-Mobile Visual Voicemail app (via Aurora Store if avoiding Play Store). Some users say this works when the built-in dialer doesn’t.

AT&T (and MVNOs like Cricket, Consumer Cellular): Frequently does not work on GrapheneOS/AOSP due to lack of support in the open-source dialer. Users often need Google Dialer + sandboxed Play services as a workaround.

Verizon (and MVNOs like Visible, TracFone): Mixed results; some work with Google Dialer, others need tweaks or third-party apps.

If you’re on an MVNO, try the parent carrier’s VVM app or check their specific setup instructions.

If your carrier has its own dedicated VVM app (e.g., T-Mobile’s), install and test that first—it bypasses the dialer entirely for many people.

▼
3. Use Google Phone App with Sandboxed Google Play (Recommended for Many Users)

GrapheneOS officially suggests this for tricky carrier features:

Install sandboxed Google Play (via the Apps app in GrapheneOS — no full Google account login required for many features).
Install the Google Phone (Phone by Google) app.
Set it as your default phone app.
Try enabling VVM in its settings.
Grant necessary permissions (phone, SMS, etc.) and test with mobile data.

This has resolved activation issues for Verizon, some T-Mobile setups, and others without fully compromising de-Googling.

▼
4. Alternative Voicemail Solutions (No VVM Needed)

If native VVM remains unreliable:

Google Voice: Port your number or set it up for voicemail (transcription included). Works well with sandboxed Play.
YouMail or similar third-party voicemail apps (available via Aurora Store).
Stick with traditional dial-in voicemail (it’s reliable on GrapheneOS).
Some users forward calls to a service that provides visual/transcribed voicemail.

Additional Tips

  • Ensure your carrier settings and APN are correct (GrapheneOS pulls these from stock Pixel configs, but you can reset them in Settings > Network & internet > SIMs > Advanced).
  • Test on Wi-Fi vs. mobile data—some activation steps fail over certain connections or VPNs.
  • Update GrapheneOS and the Phone app to the latest version.
  • If nothing works, post details on the GrapheneOS discussion forum (discuss.grapheneos.org) with your exact carrier, phone model, and error message—community members often share carrier-specific tweaks (e.g., secret codes like ##886266344## for advanced VVM config on some networks).
Important note: Full visual voicemail isn’t guaranteed on de-Googled ROMs for every carrier because it depends on proprietary elements. GrapheneOS prioritizes privacy and security over perfect carrier feature parity. Many users end up using carrier apps or Google Voice as a reliable compromise.

Videos Page

For latest and updates, please read https://getprivacyfreedom.me/best-degoogled-phone-recommended-apps/

App Stores:

  • Droid-ify and Fdroid have FOSS (Free Open Source Software) and many decentralized Pro-privacy apps.
  • AuroraStore has almost anything that GooglePlay store has. Be careful what you download and use. You are able to check what TRACKERS there are and PERMISSIONS needed for each App.

MAPs:

  • GMaps WV – This is a restricted WebView wrapper for accessing the web version of Google Maps. Intended for use when OpenStreetMap isn’t enough. Unofficial, not sponsored or endorsed by Google. You can choose your weather source; Open-Metro, Accuweather, MET Norway, OpenWeather, etc.
  • Magic Earth Pro-Privacy very user friendly and has turn by turn instruction and voice. It’s on AuroraStore APP.
  • CoMaps, Organic Maps, and OsmAnd~ are open source and secure but not quite as friendly. They can be found on Fdroid store.
  • Waze can be used also but it’s a grey area especially since Google acquired it. If you must download it, simple uninstall it after finished using it.  ANYTHING google can compromise your Privacy-Freedom.

Weather:

  • Breezy Weather is a terrific FOSS (Free Open Source Software) weather app or try using websites instead of Apps for Weather.com or Accuweather for example. Their apps of loads of trackers on them! Breezy Weather comes from the IzzyOnDroid F-Droid Repository and will need to be added if you can’t find it in your FDroid App Store.

Email:

  • K9, FairEmail, Protonmail, Tutanota are some private and secure options.

Messaging:

  • Signal is supposedly encrypted for messaging and calling but I have read now in a couple places that there are security concerns. Just be discerning what you write.
  • SimpleX is secure and found on Droid-ify, F-droid.
  • Session is another encrypted messenger. It’s a favorite.

Bible:

  • AndBible on Droid-ify /F-droid is by far a favorite. It has many languages, versions, reading plans, commentaries, etc.

Use Exodus-Privacy tool to check an app before you install it onto your device, Exodus-Privacy website will show you details on Trackers as well as App Permissions.

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