[Edaily Reporter Han Kwangbeom ] SamsungElectronics(005930)has unveiled a data transfer software update that significantly enhances the ease of switching from devices running other operating systems, coinciding with the launch of the 8th-generation Galaxy Z series (Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Z Fold8, and Z Flip8).

SamsungElectronics announced on the 25th that it has minimized the barriers for iOS users switching to Galaxy devices by enhancing the “Smart Switch” feature in One UI 9, which is pre-installed on the 8th-generation foldable lineup.

Smart Switch is SamsungElectronics’ data transfer app that moves data and settings from Android or iOS devices to a new Galaxy device. With this update, iOS users can now start wireless data transfer immediately simply by scanning the QR code displayed on their new Galaxy device—without the need for a separate cable, adapter, USB connection, or additional app installation.

The range of transferable data has also expanded significantly. In addition to the previously supported photos, videos, messages, contacts, calendars, and apps, users can now transfer saved passwords and passkeys, call logs, accessibility settings, and eSIM information to their new Galaxy device as-is. Transferring passwords eliminates the hassle of setting up accounts again on a new device, and carrying over personalized accessibility settings eliminates the inconvenience of having to reconfigure them from scratch. eSIM information can also be easily transferred, allowing users to maintain their existing mobile experience.

This feature helps users continue using the familiar user experience even after switching to a new Galaxy device. Regardless of which model you choose—the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Z Fold8, or Z Flip8—you can customize key aspects of the user experience, such as swipe gestures and home screen layout, to suit your preferences. In particular, by using “Good Lock,” a UI customization app, users can freely change settings such as the home screen and app-switching methods to use the device exactly as they prefer. Even iOS users switching to a Galaxy can complete the initial setup according to the methods they’re accustomed to on their previous smartphones, significantly reducing the burden of adaptation.

The file-sharing experience after switching devices has also been significantly enhanced. On Galaxy devices running One UI 9 and One UI 8.5, the short-range wireless sharing feature “Quick Share” has been enhanced to be compatible with Apple’s “AirDrop.” This allows users to easily exchange files and content with friends, family, and colleagues who use different platforms.

Data transfer from iOS devices via this upgraded method is available in regions outside of mainland China on devices running Android 17 or higher and iOS 26.6 or higher. Additionally, the “Share with iOS Devices” feature is initially supported on major flagship models such as the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold8, Galaxy Z Flip8, and Galaxy S26, with support expected to expand to additional models in the future.