How to Export Local Android Files Before a Factory Reset

Step by step

1. 1 min

   Establish a physical connection

   Connect your Android device to your computer using a high-speed USB-C data cable. Once connected, unlock your phone, pull down the Notification Shade, tap the 'Charging this device via USB' notification, and select 'File Transfer' or 'Android Auto' under the USB preferences menu.

   Note: Ensure your computer detects the device in File Explorer or Finder.
2. 1 min

   Locate internal storage directories

   Open File Explorer (Windows) or Android File Transfer/OpenMTP (macOS). Navigate to the Internal Storage folder of your Android device. Identify primary media folders, specifically 'DCIM' for photos and videos, 'Download' for document exports, and 'Pictures' for screenshots.

3. 3 min

   Copy files to local drive

   Create a new folder on your computer desktop named 'Android_Backup'. Select the folders from your device storage, right-click, and select Copy. Paste the contents into the 'Android_Backup' folder on your computer to initiate the transfer process.

   Note: Avoid disconnecting the cable until the progress bar reaches completion.
4. 1 min

   Verify cloud synchronization

   Open the Google Photos app on your device and tap your profile icon. Ensure 'Backup complete' is displayed to confirm all media is synced to your Google Account. If items remain, tap 'Turn on backup' to finalize the upload before proceeding.

   Note: Check Google Drive for documents that may not be synced automatically.
5. 1 min

   Export browser and app data

   Open Chrome on your device, tap the three-dot menu, and select 'Bookmarks'. Export your bookmarks via the bookmark manager if necessary, or ensure your Google account sync is active under Settings > Passwords & accounts. This prevents the loss of saved site credentials and bookmarks.