How to Share Backup Files via Email or Google Drive

Overview

SMS Backup, Print & Restore lets you export your messages to a backup file that you can store securely or send to yourself. This guide explains how to create a backup and then share or save it using Email, Google Drive, or a computer/USB transfer.

Step 1: Create a backup file

1. Open SMS Backup, Print & Restore.

2. Long-press a conversation to select multiple conversations, or tap a conversation to open it and select individual messages.

3. Tap the Backup button at the bottom of the screen.

4. Follow the on-screen instructions to start creating a backup.

Tip: Wait until the export finishes completely before leaving the screen, especially for large message histories.

Step 2: Share or save the backup file

Once the export is complete, you’ll see a Share icon. Tap it to open the Android share sheet, then choose where you want to send or save the backup file.

1. After exporting, tap the Share icon.

2. Choose one of the options below, depending on where you want to store the file:

   • Send via Email

     1. Select your email app (for example, Gmail).

     2. A new email draft will open with the backup file attached.

     3. Send the email to yourself so you can download the file later on any device.

   • Save to Google Drive

     1. Select Drive from the share options.

     2. Choose the destination Google Drive folder (or create one).

     3. Tap Upload or Save to store the backup file in Drive.

   • Transfer to a Computer (USB/External Drive)

     1. Choose an option that saves the file to your device first (for example, Files or Save to device).

     2. Connect your phone to your computer using a USB cable.

     3. On your phone, allow file transfer if prompted.

     4. On your computer, open your phone’s storage and copy the backup file to your computer or an external drive.

Where to find your backup later

• Email: Open the email you sent to yourself and download the attachment.

• Google Drive: Open the Drive app (or drive.google.com) and navigate to the folder you selected during upload.

• Device storage / Computer: Check the location where you saved it on your phone, or the folder where you copied it on your computer.

Notes & tips

• Keep backups private: Backup files may contain personal information. Store them in a secure account and avoid sharing them publicly.

• Use Wi‑Fi for large backups: Uploading to Drive or emailing large files is more reliable over Wi‑Fi.

• Organize your backups: Consider naming files by date (for example, SMS_Backup_2026-02-23) so they’re easy to identify later.