Messenger Threema is deservedly considered one of the most secure communication tools thanks to end-to-end encryption and a policy of minimal data collection. However, it is precisely this architecture, which does not link the account to a phone number or email by default, that creates specific difficulties when changing devices. Unlike popular analogues, there is no cloud synchronization of correspondence history on the company’s servers.
The process of switching to a new smartphone requires the user to understand the principles of operation of local backups. If you simply install the application on a new gadget, you will get a blank slate, and all your contacts and correspondence will remain on your old device. To avoid this situation, you must strictly follow the algorithm for creating and restoring a backup.
In this article we will look in detail at how to properly prepare your old device, transfer files and activate your Threema ID on a new phone. We will consider both the standard method via a QR code and manual copying of database files for advanced users.
Preparing the old device for migration
Before starting the procedure, make sure that the latest version of the application from the official store is installed on both smartphones Google Play. Differences in versions may result in incompatible backup formats. Go to the application settings on your old phone and check the current software version.
The most important step is creating a full backup. To do this, open the settings menu inside the messenger. You need to find the section responsible for chats and their safety. The system will offer to create a backup file, which will be encrypted with a password.
- 🔐 Create a strong password to encrypt the backup, which you will definitely not forget.
- 📁 Select a storage location: internal memory or SD card.
- 📸 Take a screenshot of your Threema ID or write it down manually.
Please note that without knowing the password, it will be impossible to restore the data. The developers do not store encryption keys on their servers for user security purposes. Therefore, write down the password in a safe place before continuing.
⚠️ Attention: If you use root access or non-standard file managers, make sure that the application has rights to read and write to external storage, otherwise the copy creation process may fail.
Creating and saving a backup copy
After entering password, the system will generate a file with the extension .zip or a specific database format. By default, it is saved in a folder Threema in the internal storage. The path to the file usually looks like /storage/emulated/0/Threema/backup.
It is recommended to immediately copy this file to your computer or cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) in order to have a safety copy in case the phone is damaged during the transfer process. This is especially true if you plan to reset your old phone to factory settings immediately after the migration.
Save the backup file in three different places: on your old phone, on your computer, and in the cloud. This ensures that you will not lose your correspondence history even in case of force majeure.
In addition to the backup file, it is critically important to save it yourself Threema ID. This is your unique eight-digit identifier starting with a letter. It connects you with contacts on an encrypted network. Without it, you will not be able to prove that you are the owner of the account.
In your profile settings there is a function to create a QR code for your ID. Print it or save an image. On your new device, you can simply scan this code to instantly transfer your identity without entering characters manually.
Transferring data to a new smartphone
Now let's move on to the new device. Install the application Threema from an official source. When you launch it for the first time, the setup wizard will offer several options for getting started. You need to select the option “I already have an ID” or “Restore from backup.”
If you have saved the QR code of your ID, select the scanning method. Point the camera of the new phone at the screen of the old one (where the QR code is open) or at the printed sheet. The system will automatically update your ID and encryption keys.
| Transfer method | Complexity | What is transferred | Risk of data loss |
|---|---|---|---|
| QR code ID | Low | Only profile and keys | Minimum |
| Backup file | Medium | Profile, chats, media | Medium (password required) |
| Manual copying of folders | High | Full copy of the system | High (path error) |
After entering the ID, the application will request the file backup. Specify the path to the file that you previously saved and transferred to your new smartphone via cable, Bluetooth or cloud. Enter the password you set at the stage of creating the backup.
☑️ Verification before recovery
Manually copying system folders
For users who want to transfer absolutely all data, including cached images and specific settings, the method of manually copying directories is suitable. This method requires connecting the phone to the computer via a USB cable in file transfer mode (MTP).
You need to copy the entire folder Threema from the internal memory of the old device. Then connect the new smartphone and paste this folder into exactly the same place in its file system. It is important to follow the directory structure to the smallest detail.
/storage/emulated/0/Threema/├── backup/
├── images/
├── videos/
└── audios/
After copying the files, launch the application on the new one device. If you copied everything correctly, it can automatically detect the data. However, most often you will still need to go through the ID linking procedure via QR code or manual entry to activate the cryptographic keys.
What to do if the folders are not visible?
If you do not see the Threema folder when connecting to your PC, check the notification settings on your phone. Often, Android only connects to. charging. Select the "File transfer" mode in the notification curtain.
Restoring access to chats and media
After successfully restoring the database, you will see a list of your contacts. However, the chat history may not load instantly, especially if there were a lot of heavy media files in the chats. Give the application a few minutes to index the local database. data-i="90">Check the presence of all important conversations. If some chats are missing, make sure that the backup file was created after the last important message. Remember that a backup is a snapshot of the state at a specific point in time. SQLite.
Check for all important dialogues. If some chats are missing, make sure that a backup file was created after the last important message. Remember that a backup is a snapshot of the state at a specific point in time.
In some cases, media files (photos and videos) may not be displayed immediately, as they are stored separately from the text database. Try opening the chat and scrolling up to the gallery. should load thumbnails from the copied folder images.
⚠️ Attention: Never open the same Threema account on two phones at the same time with the same ID. This will cause the encryption keys to become out of sync and your contacts will not be able to send you encrypted messages.
Completing setup and security
When you are satisfied that all data is in place, perform a final security check. Go to settings and enable app locking with a password or fingerprint. This will add an extra layer of protection if your phone falls into the wrong hands.
It is also recommended to update your QR security code. Although the ID itself remains the same, generating new session keys may be required for some contacts who are experiencing errors when sending messages. Ask a close contact to scan your new code.
After successfully transferring your data, be sure to delete the backup copy from your old device before selling or disposing of it to protect your privacy.
Now your messenger is completely ready to use. You have maintained anonymity and your entire communication history. Create new backups regularly to make the process of changing devices even faster and more painless in the future.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What happens if I forget the password for the backup?
Unfortunately, it is impossible to restore data without a password. The architecture Threema is designed in such a way that the encryption keys are stored only by the user. You will have to create a new account with a new ID and start communicating with contacts again.
Is it possible to transfer an account if the old phone has already been reset?
No, if you do not have a saved backup file or a recorded Threema ID. Without an identifier, it is impossible to restore the link to old contacts, since the server does not store the connection between the phone number and the ID.
Are groups transferred when changing phone numbers?
Yes, information about groups is stored in a local database. When restoring from a full backup, you will automatically return to all group chats you were in previously, preserving your correspondence history.
Do you need to delete the application from your old phone after transferring?
Technically this is not necessary, but it is highly recommended. Simultaneous use of one ID on two devices may cause conflicts when receiving messages. It is better to delete the application or log out of your account on the old device.