How do I transfer Telegram to a new phone?

Applies to: Telegram Messenger (Android, iOS)
Last updated: September 2025

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Problem

You’ve switched to a new phone and want to move your Telegram account, chats, and media without losing anything.

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Solution

Unlike WhatsApp, Telegram is cloud-based. This means your chats, groups, and channels are stored on Telegram’s servers, and they sync automatically when you log in on a new device.

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Step-by-step Instructions

Step 1: Install Telegram on your new phone

1. Download Telegram from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
2. Open the app.

Step 2: Log in with your phone number

1. Enter your registered phone number.
2. You’ll receive a login code via SMS or in Telegram on your old device.
3. Enter the code to complete login.

Step 3: Wait for automatic sync

• All your chats, contacts, groups, and channels will load automatically.
• Media may take longer to appear if you have large files, as they’re re-downloaded from Telegram’s servers.

Step 4: Check for multi-device login

• On your old device, go to Settings > Devices.
• You’ll see the new phone listed once logged in.
• You can log out of old devices from here if needed.

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Optional Methods or Tools

• Use Telegram Desktop or Web to keep access while switching phones.
• If you need offline copies, use Export Chat on Telegram Desktop before switching.
• To move custom stickers or themes, they will sync automatically with your account.

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Best Practices / Tips

• Always use the same phone number; otherwise, you’ll create a new Telegram account.
• Enable Two-Step Verification (Settings > Privacy and Security) for added security during transfer.
• If you change your number, use Telegram’s Change Number feature to migrate your account and chats seamlessly.
• Keep your old phone connected until the new one is fully set up (to receive login codes faster).