Source: Samsung Electronics New Zealand
Smart Switch Update that removes barriers that have traditionally made switching smartphones feel difficult
AUCKLAND, New Zealand – August 2026 Samsung Electronics introduced its latest Galaxy devices with One UI 9.0, it is making it even more seamless for Kiwis to switch to Galaxy. The upgrade has been specifically designed to remove the barriers people may face when changing smartphones.
Buying a new smartphone is a big decision, but for years that choice has been complicated by the switch itself. Transitioning to a new device can be daunting, the worry your contacts, messages and apps would reappear and worrying about whether your precious photos would all be transferred over.
"Everyone should be free to upgrade their phone without worrying if they will lose their personal data" says Jack Miller, Product Manager Flagship Mobile, Samsung New Zealand.
"Choosing the right phone is a big decision, and historically, changing ecosystem has been a big part of this decision. We've worked hard on removing the barriers that have made switching feel like a hassle. Now, you can bring everything from contacts, photos, messages and even your eSim to Samsung from IOS without the need to install a separate app. We are making it easier for Kiwis to find their perfect phone. Simply scan a QR code and you can experience a Galaxy Device without starting over."
Now switching is actually the easiest part.
Switching from iOS to a new Samsung is straightforward thanks to tools like Smart Switch that automatically transfer your photos, contacts, messages, and many apps. The process involves three main stages: data transfer, app setup, and account configuration. Simply scan a QR code and follow the simple and intuitive prompts to securely transfer all of your supported data wirelessly without using a cable.¹
Your Samsung phone guides you through each step, showing transfer progress and estimated completion time. Most people complete the basic setup within an hour, though downloading all your apps and customising settings takes additional time.
Smart Switch is now complimented with the new Airdrop functionality through Quick Share¹, which now means that you have even more ability to seamlessly bring over the content that matters most and stay connected across devices.
Expanded wireless transfer support
Previously some data could only be transferred via a wired connection. However, with One UI 9.0, secure wireless transfers now provide the same supported data coverage as wired transfers, allowing more people to complete the setup process wirelessly without compromising what they can bring across.¹
By removing unnecessary steps and expanding wireless transfer capabilities, Samsung is helping make the move to Galaxy more straightforward.
Compatibility
The enhanced Smart Switch experience is available on compatible Galaxy devices running One UI 9.0 or higher and supports transfers from compatible Apple devices running iOS 26.6 or later and Android devices running Android 17 or later. ¹
For more information about Smart Switch, visit Samsung Smart Switch.
¹ Transferable data may vary depending on the device OS (Android or iOS), OS version, and/or connection option.
Check technical requirements for Smart Switch compatible devices from the FAQ section.
Available connection option may vary depending on device OS, manufacturer or availability of expandable storage.
Data transfer from iOS to Galaxy through the upgraded method is available on devices running Android 17 or later, and iOS 26.6 or later, excluding China mainland.
You can find the Smart Switch app on the Galaxy phone or tablet by navigating to the Samsung folder on the Apps screen, or going to Settings > Accounts and backup > Smart Switch.
If you have a large amount of data to transfer, a wired connection is recommended because it is relatively faster. Make sure your devices are properly charged beforehand since connecting to a charger is not available during such transfer.