Samsung Galaxy: Import contact information

Importing contact data onto a Samsung Galaxy smartphone is actually pretty easy. Both via the Google account, which is an integral part of all Android devices, and through the classic vCard format.

Export old contact data as a CVS or vCard

First of all, logically you need the contacts that should be on the new smartphone. Depending on where you take it, for example from an old cell phone, the route here is different. Programs or apps that manage the contacts usually offer the "Export" menu item. The contact details can be saved here as a CVS file or as a so-called vCard. Look for such an option and save the corresponding file on your computer.

• Tip: The free Android app "Backup Contacts" makes it easy for you to export contact data. In addition to the CSV format, you can also use the free tool to protect your contacts individually.

Import contacts using the Google account

This way is quite simple and is also particularly effective because the Google account also takes over the synchronization of new contacts later. If you have not yet transferred any contact data to your Google account, it is best to do this using the browser on your computer.

1. Log in to "Google Contacts" with your account that you would later like to use on the Samsung Galaxy.
2. Click "More" above and select "Import".
3. Now select a CSV file or a vCard from your hard drive. The contacts are then imported.

Set up a Google account

Now it continues on the Samsung Galaxy smartphone:

1. If you have not yet set up a Google account, first go to "Settings"> "Accounts"> "Add account" and enter the account into which you previously imported the contacts.
2. Usually the contacts should now synchronize themselves and appear on your device. If not, go to "Settings"> "Accounts"> "Google" again, select the account and tick the "Sync contacts" button below.

Contact data import via USB memory of the Samsung Galaxy

The contact details can also be imported to the Galaxy phone without a Google account. To do this, they must be available as a vCard.

1. Transfer the corresponding vCard or VCF file to the internal memory of the Samsung mobile phone. This can be done very simply by a USB connection to the computer.
2. Open the contacts app on your smartphone. Press the menu button and select "Import / Export"> "Import from USB memory". The phone automatically finds the vCard and imports all contact information.

These instructions refer to the Samsung Galaxy S3 with Android 4.1.2. You can find further help on the topic of "Synchronizing Android contacts" in this practical tip.