Export and check your contacts
Choose the correct account and format, preserve the original export and test a small import.
Follow the method ↓
The answer in 30 seconds
Contact lists can be split across a phone, cloud account and work profile. An exported file is a dated snapshot; it will not automatically include future edits or prove that every contact field transfers cleanly.
Identify the source account and contact group, export to a format the destination accepts, protect the file and import a small sample before moving the whole address book.
Examples to adapt
Check whether contacts already sync through the same account before importing duplicates.
Export and preserve a dated copy, then test names, numbers and notes.
Obtain permission and limit fields before transferring other people's details.
Follow the method
- 1Locate the source
Check which account owns the contacts you need and whether multiple lists overlap.
- 2Choose a format
Match CSV or vCard support to the destination app and export a copy.
- 3Protect the file
Store it in an appropriate private location with a clear date.
- 4Test import
Try a small subset and inspect field mapping, accents and duplicates before a full move.
A checklist to keep
Use these checks to record what you found. The grid supports a decision; it does not make one for you.
| Check | What to examine | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Account | Which list holds the contacts? | Identify |
| Format | What will the new app accept? | Choose |
| Fields | Are numbers and notes included? | Inspect |
| Duplicates | Will an import repeat entries? | Check |
| Privacy | Where is the export stored? | Protect |
Free, no sign-up. UTF-8 text with semicolon-separated columns.
What to check
An export is not ongoing synchronisation.
Importing twice can create duplicates.
The file contains other people's personal information.
Common questions
Why are some contacts missing?
Check whether they belong to a different account or device storage rather than the exported group.
Should I delete the old list immediately?
No. Verify the destination and keep a recoverable original until migration is complete.
Sources and documentation
Documentation consulted on . Examples are illustrative; interfaces and results may change.