Last Updated: January 2026 | Reading Time: 3 minutes | Author: First and Geek Editorial Team
Google is reportedly working on a new feature that will make switching from Safari to Chrome on your iPhone significantly easier. The on-device data migration tool currently being tested could eliminate one of the biggest pain points for users who want to make the switch but don’t want to lose their browsing data in the process.
What Google Is Testing
According to recent reports, Google is developing a guided “Safari import” tool for Chrome on iOS. Unlike the desktop experience where browser data migration has been available for years, iPhone users have had limited options for transferring their Safari data to Chrome. This new feature aims to change that by providing a streamlined, step-by-step process.
The tool reportedly works with the ZIP file that Safari can generate through the iPhone’s Settings app. Users would navigate to Settings, then Apps, then Safari, and find the “Export Browsing Data” option to create this file. Chrome would then guide users through importing this data directly into the browser.
What Data Can Be Transferred
The migration tool is expected to give users control over what information they want to move from Safari to Chrome. The reported options include:
- Saved passwords
- Credit card information
- Browsing history
- Bookmarks
During the import process, users would see a disclaimer noting that “Your data will be saved to your Google Account.” This is an important consideration for anyone concerned about where their browsing information lives after the transfer.
Privacy and Security Considerations
One thoughtful touch in the reported implementation is how Chrome handles the export file after the migration completes. According to the details shared, Chrome will warn users that the ZIP file they created contains private information and offers a quick option to delete that file immediately. This helps reduce the risk of sensitive data sitting around in your Files app where it could potentially be accessed later.
This kind of attention to cleanup is exactly what you want to see in a data migration tool. Too often, export files get forgotten in download folders, creating unnecessary security risks.
When Will It Be Available
The feature is currently being tested in Chrome 145 for TestFlight users. While the beta program appears to be full at the moment, the current stable release is Chrome 144, which suggests the feature could arrive in the public version relatively soon. Based on Google’s typical release cycle, this could mean a rollout within the coming weeks, though no official timeline has been confirmed.
Why This Matters
Browser switching friction is real. Many people stick with Safari on their iPhone not necessarily because they prefer it, but because moving years of passwords, bookmarks, and other data feels like too much work. By making this process more accessible and guided, Google is removing a significant barrier for users who might want Chrome’s cross-platform syncing capabilities or prefer its features over Safari.
For those of us who use multiple devices across different ecosystems, having browser data that syncs seamlessly between an iPhone, a Windows laptop, and maybe an Android tablet can be genuinely useful. Safari works wonderfully within Apple’s ecosystem, but it’s limited outside of it. Chrome, for better or worse, is nearly everywhere.
That said, it’s worth remembering that Safari has some advantages on iPhone that Chrome doesn’t fully replicate. Safari is deeply integrated with iOS features, tends to be more battery efficient, and doesn’t route your browsing data through Google’s servers by default. The choice between browsers isn’t just about features; it’s also about which company you’re more comfortable entrusting with your browsing habits.
FAQ
Q: Will this feature work with other browsers besides Safari?
A: The current implementation being tested appears to be specifically designed for Safari data migration. There’s no indication yet whether Google plans to extend this guided import feature to other browsers on iOS.
Q: Does moving my data to Chrome mean it will be synced to Google’s servers?
A: According to the reported flow, Chrome will display a disclaimer stating that your data will be saved to your Google Account. If you prefer to keep your browsing data local only, you may want to review Chrome’s sync settings after completing the migration.
Q: Can I still use Safari after importing my data to Chrome?
A: Yes, the migration process copies your data rather than moving it. Safari and all your Safari data will remain unchanged on your iPhone. You can continue using both browsers or switch between them as you prefer.
First and Geek Verdict
This is a smart move by Google that addresses a real user pain point. Making browser switching easier benefits users by giving them more genuine choice, rather than keeping them locked in through inconvenience. The guided approach and the security consideration of offering to delete the export file afterward shows thoughtful implementation.
For users who have been curious about Chrome but hesitant to lose their Safari data, this feature should make the decision much less daunting. Whether you ultimately stick with Safari, switch to Chrome, or use both, having better tools for managing your data is always welcome. Just remember to weigh the privacy implications of where your browsing data lives alongside the convenience of cross-platform syncing.
