This updated article (originally published April 27, 2017) addresses the vital task of backing up text messages, a crucial communication method often overlooked in the age of cloud-based backups. Unlike emails and social media, SMS and MMS messages aren't automatically preserved when switching devices. Let's explore easy backup methods for both Android and iOS.

Android Text Message Backup

Android's open nature simplifies text message backup. Many apps directly access and archive your messages.

Begin by checking your default SMS app (like Google Messages) for built-in backup options. Google Messages, for example, often automatically backs up messages alongside your OS settings (accessible via Settings > System > Backup).

For a robust solution, consider SMS Backup . This app seamlessly integrates with your Google account, automatically archiving SMS and MMS messages in your Gmail inbox with a dedicated label. This makes your texts searchable like emails and leverages your existing Gmail contacts. While not the most polished app, it's effective and allows restoring messages to a new device.

SMS Backup & Restore offers a similar function, but instead of Gmail, it backs up to local storage, Google Drive, or Dropbox in XML format. It's user-friendly, handles MMS messages and call logs, and supports scheduled backups – all for free. The choice depends on your preference for searching through Gmail or cloud storage.

IFTTT (If This Then That) provides another option. This free service connects apps, enabling you to create "applets" that trigger actions. For example, an incoming text could trigger saving that message to a Google Drive spreadsheet, Dropbox text file, or forwarding it to your email. While requiring more setup, it offers flexibility, though it only saves future texts, not your existing history.

Several desktop apps also exist, but exercise caution, as they require extensive phone data access. TunesGo Phone Manager, a reputable option, backs up and restores texts from Android (and iOS), even enabling SMS sending from your computer.

iOS Text Message Backup

iOS restricts text message backups to Apple's ecosystem: iCloud or your computer.

Check your iCloud Backup settings (Settings > Your Name > iCloud > iCloud Backup) to ensure automatic backups over Wi-Fi. Otherwise, backups, including messages, are stored on your computer upon connection. These backups can be restored as needed.

Various third-party desktop apps offer iOS text message export to Windows or macOS. However, thoroughly research developers and reviews before downloading to avoid malicious software. Free trials are recommended before purchasing.

iMazing (macOS/Windows), CopyTrans (Windows), and iExplorer (macOS/Windows) are examples of such apps. They typically involve connecting your iPhone via USB, selecting data for export, and letting the software handle the process. They save messages in various formats (PDF, text, CSV, XML), allowing for viewing messages with images and attachments. Note that only iMazing supports restoring texts to a new phone like iTunes or iCloud backups. iMazing offers a trial version with feature limitations; full access requires a purchase.

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