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Set up a new phone or laptop without losing data

A new device is in the box and you're scared of losing photos and logins. Get a before-and-after checklist.

Updated 17 Oct 2026

The prompt · ChatGPT

Help me set up a new phone or laptop without losing data.

Old device: [details]
New device: [details]
Must move: [photos, WhatsApp, work email, apps]
I can use Wi-Fi and time: [details]

Ask me up to 3 short questions first if anything important is missing. Wait for my answers.

Then:
1. What to back up on the old device first.
2. Setup order on the new device in general terms.
3. Official transfer options to look for (Apple/Google help).
4. A day-two checklist (2-step verification, find-my-device, backups on).

Only use what I've told you, leave blanks for anything I haven't given, and don't invent facts, steps or official URLs you're not sure of. UK English.

Stay in this ChatGPT chat. Do not turn on apps or connectors, and do not use memory from another chat.

A short example

Fill the blanks, then paste. details: a short note you already have. details: a short note you already have. Leave the rest of the prompt as written.

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