Mobile data backup 101
Last update: January 25, 2024 Getting ready to change cell phones? Is your current phone showing signs of aging and may soon die on you? Here are various ways you can transfer data from one phone to another or save it in a secure location—and enjoy peace of mind, no matter what happens to your device. What is a data backup? Backing up a cell phone means transferring data (photos, contacts, call history, settings, etc.) from your device to a different location for storage. Different backup methods allow you to save different types of data. The purpose is to have an extra layer of security that allows you to recover the content on your phone and transfer it to a new device. It's important to choose the best method for your specific needs. 1. Cloud backup In addition to providing a convenient backup solution, the cloud lets you sync your content across multiple devices. Simply create an account on the platform of your choice, based on your mobile device: iCloud (Apple) Samsung Cloud Google Drive Then, depending on the platform, determine what you want to save to the cloud and how often. Pro tip: Find out how much free storage you get. It may be worthwhile to purchase a subscription for more storage capacity. 2. Backing up data directly on a computer A traditional backup technique is using a USB cable to save your phone’s data to a computer. Here’s how you do it: Connect your phone to your computer using the USB cable that came with your mobile device. This will give you access to your phone’s storage and allow you to transfer photos, videos and even songs directly from your cell phone onto your computer. The procedure is very similar to using a USB key. Once the USB cable is connected, your computer should recognize your phone as a new hardware device. Now you should be able to access the files on your cell phone. To complete the backup, simply save copies of your photos and videos onto your computer. Pro tip: This technique allows you to transfer photos, videos and music only. You won’t be able to transfer other information, such as your contact list. 3. Backing up data using transfer/backup software If you want more options for phone-to-computer backup, your best choice is a software solution. The new phone you purchased is the same brand as your previous device? The software allows you to transfer more content such as contacts, photos, apps and sometimes even more. It’s important to note, however, that transferable content varies from software to software. Most cell phone manufacturers have a program that you can install on your computer. The steps to follow can vary from one company to another, but the basic principle is the same. Download and install the transfer software. Apple Samsung LG Huawei Once the software is installed, connect your phone to your computer. Follow the instructions to back up your data or transfer content to a new phone. Essentially, using software is a better solution if you want to save more than just photos and videos. It also guarantees a faster transition when you switch phones of the same brand. Pro tip: Consider backing up your phone data every time you add new content that’s important to you. After all, data saved on your computer six months ago will not contain any new contacts or photos added since then. Make it a habit to back up your data regularly! We’ve seen some of the different ways you can transfer data from your phone to your computer. Have questions about this topic? Feel free to ask in the Community Forum!“My phone is not a toy!”
That’s what most of us say when we don’t want our kids to use our mobile devices. And it’s true, a $700 phone is definitely not a toy. That said, phones and tables are undeniably a source of entertainment for children. The occasional cartoon, a game now and then… Kids are increasingly comfortable with technology and are very skilled at using electronic devices. When they play under parental supervision, there’s no problem. But the truth of the matter is that we often hand over our cell phones when we need to occupy little ones as we rush to finish the dishes or change the younger sibling’s diaper. It’s also a go-to solution for long car rides or when confined home. You may be glad to know that you can limit how your phone is used by deactivating features and restricting access to certain applications. All this results in a “safer” environment for your kids. Here are a few free solutions that you might find useful. Apple owners will be interested in a cool feature that can temporarily turn your device into a single application: Guided Access. It’s great because young users can’t open anything that hasn’t been authorized by you. All they get is one game or application (like YouTube), and if they want to access something else, they will need your passcode or fingerprint. To access this feature, go to: Settings > General > Accessibility > Guided Access. You’ll notice that Guided Access offers other types of configurations, such as disabling certain commands or areas of your screen. It’s up to you to decide what you’d like to lock your kids out of. Android offers several different application management options. Samsung’s Kids Mode, which is available in the Play Store (where you buy apps for Android phones and tablets), allows you to set limits on how your device is used and decide which content your children can access. Obviously, the user can’t exit this mode without your PIN. Play Store actually has many applications that provide parental control. Note that free applications sometimes play ads or prompt you to pay for the “premium” version. Take the time to test the app before passing it over to your son or daughter. One thing is for sure: if you give an Android phone or tablet to your child, make sure you restrict downloads in Play Store to age-appropriate content. You can do this by going to: Play Store: Menu > Settings > Parental control. When you activate Parental control, you will have to create a PIN and select the right classification level for games and apps. Google has also just released FAMILY LINK, a new app that helps you analyze and supervise device usage. How much time does your child spend in front of the screen? What are their favourite apps? FAMILY LINK can even lock the device at certain times of day or manage purchases. Finally, it’s helpful to remember that kids are supposed to be bored sometimes. Letting them use your phone while they wait for the adults to finish eating might seem like an easy and practical solution, but idle time may also help develop their creativity 😉 Best of luck!
