Google is reportedly working on an on-device data migration feature on iOS that will allow Safari users to move their browsing data directly into Chrome. According to a report by a tech news website, citing another industry publication, Google is testing a guided “Safari import” tool to make switching from Safari to Chrome easier on iPhones. A similar feature already exists on desktop, and it is now expected to reach iPhones.
How the Safari import feature works
The report said the new tool will rely on a ZIP file created using Safari’s “Export Browsing Data” option. Safari allows users to export their browsing data through the following steps:
- Open the Settings app on iPhone
- Scroll down and tap on Apps
- Select Safari and find the Export option under “History and Website Data”
- Choose the data to export, including Bookmarks, History, Extensions, Credit Cards, and Passwords
- Tap on Save to Downloads and follow the on-screen steps
Google is reportedly testing a dedicated “Safari import” option within Chrome’s Settings in beta versions. When users select this option and choose the ZIP file created by Safari, Chrome reads the file and shows a summary of the data before starting the transfer. It also displays a message stating, “Your data will be saved to your Google Account.”
Once the import is complete, Chrome alerts users that the ZIP file contains private information and offers an option to delete the file immediately.
Expected rollout timeline
The feature is currently being tested in Chrome version 145 for TestFlight users. Since Chrome version 144 is the latest stable release, the Safari import option could reach the public version soon if testing is successful.
Simpler iPhone-to-Android transfer also in progress
Alongside this, Apple is reportedly developing an easier way for users to move data from an iPhone to an Android device. The first developer and public beta of iOS 26.3 introduced support for a more streamlined iOS-to-Android transfer process.
According to another tech report, the feature allows users to place an iPhone near an Android phone to begin data transfer. Users can choose to move photos, messages, notes, apps, passwords, phone numbers, and other data.
Wireless transfers require both devices to be on the latest software, with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled. Users can either scan a QR code shown on the Android phone or enter a session ID and pairing code. The feature is expected to be limited to select regions, including the European Union.
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