Database Info

Is there a way to keep my text messages when I install another ROM?

I'm sick and tired of loosing my conversations whenever I want to flash a new ROM. I've heard there are ways around that, but I do not know any of them.

Try "SMS Backup & Restore" in the market. It allows you to save all your texts to your SD card and then reload them. And if you have any more questions, please direct them to the Q & A Section - this section is meant for development purposes.
Peace

I use Titanium Backup to backup my both messages and Handcent. When I restore those 2 things everything is back where I can use it for blackmail
I just wish dialer would back up too.

trindy said:
I use Titanium Backup to backup my both messages and Handcent. When I restore those 2 things everything is back where I can use it for blackmail
I just wish dialer would back up too.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For dialer use Call Logs Backup & Restore, made by the same person who made the aforementioned SMS Backup & Restore.

Here is the SMS Backup/Restore - http://www.appbrain.com/app/sms-backup-restore/com.riteshsahu.SMSBackupRestore
Call Log Backup/Restore - http://www.appbrain.com/app/call-logs-backup-restore/com.riteshsahu.CallLogBackupRestore
I have not tried call log backup, but if it's anything like SMS, then it won't disappoint

trindy said:
I use Titanium Backup to backup my both messages and Handcent. When I restore those 2 things everything is back where I can use it for blackmail
not true. i used titanium only backup programs, it didnt save messages for me. i learned that the hard way and lost all my messages.
use message backup to gmail, it saves all messages to ur gmail account under text label
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

u should definately use titanium backup for this.
sms backup and restore is so slow if u have lots of messages as it restores 1 message at a time.

another vote for SMS Backup & Restore. I use this for my text, my apps are backed up with appbrain (and a few I keep handy with ASTRO backup), and everything else is synced in the land of google.

why not just NAND before flashing. It should save your conversations(sms)...then flash the old rom. It does like that for me.

t12icky0 said:
why not just NAND before flashing. It should save your conversations(sms)...then flash the old rom. It does like that for me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
...what? If you restore a Nandroid you lose all of your current settings/ROM.

SMS Backup+ is great as well.
http://www.appbrain.com/app/sms-backup/com.zegoggles.smssync

MSK01 said:
I'm sick and tired of loosing my conversations whenever I want to flash a new ROM. I've heard there are ways around that, but I do not know any of them.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use SMS Backup to backup my txt messages to my gmail account. It seems development on this app has ended but a new developer has created an app called SMS Backup+ with the same funcationality as SMS Backup plus the ability to restore the backed up conversations to your phone (though I have not tried this). He is also working on adding the ability to back up your MMS as well.
A second option is to install the latest version of Handcent. One can now create a Handcent account (on their website for free) which allows users to back up their messages and all their Handcent settings.

Best backup method before rooting

I plan on rooting my t-bolt soon and flashing one of the deflated ROMs soon. What's the best method for backing up apps and settings, and should it be done prior to rooting of after rooting but prior to flashing?
Any tips/feedback are appreciated.
Sent from my HTC Thunderbolt using the XDA app

*Call logs backup and restore
*SMS backup and restore
I dont know anything worthwhile to backup your apps, its better to have root and titanium backup.

TNS201 said:
*Call logs backup and restore
*SMS backup and restore
I dont know anything worthwhile to backup your apps, its better to have root and titanium backup.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right, and I'm familiar with Titanium Backup, but it requires root, and the current root method wipes the phone as I understand.
Sent from my HTC Thunderbolt using the XDA app

I generally use SMS Backup and Restore on my phones, but this was giving me a problem on the TB. I restored about 5000 SMS messages from my OG Droid, but when on the TB it will crash it. This seems to be a problem with the messaging store, as both the stock messaging app and Handcent will crash (force close).
Anyone else having this problem?

I use Mybackup Pro to backup SMS, MMS, call logs, settings, apps, etc. It has a schedule feature so it backs up everything every night to my SD card.
I've used it to restore my sms, mms, and call logs...but havent used it to restore apps or their data. (for instance, i've never restored my angry birds scores and I dont know if its possible without root)
So take a look at that app and hopefully that might help you out.

Oh, and to better answer your question, I use Titanium backup to backup all of my apps and data. Unfortunately, you will have to be rooted for it to work.

pman555 said:
I use Mybackup Pro to backup SMS, MMS, call logs, settings, apps, etc. It has a schedule feature so it backs up everything every night to my SD card.
I've used it to restore my sms, mms, and call logs...but havent used it to restore apps or their data. (for instance, i've never restored my angry birds scores and I dont know if its possible without root)
So take a look at that app and hopefully that might help you out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1 for MyBackup Pro. You need root to restore app data and market links. First thing I did after I rooted was restore my Angry Birds backup from my Fascinate. lol

PJnc284 said:
+1 for MyBackup Pro. You need root to restore app data and market links. First thing I did after I rooted was restore my Angry Birds backup from my Fascinate. lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So, does Mybackup Pro do the same thing as Titanium Backup? Or do you use Titanium Backup as well?
I'm thinking of rooting soon, so I figured if its the same thing as Titanium Backup, i wont have to pay for a new app.

basically. It allows you to back up and restore apps, app data and market links. You can also back up call logs, sms, mms, calendar, contacts, alarms and some other miscellaneous things along with scheduled backups. I just find the interface to be much more user friendly than when I was playing around with Titanium Backup.

Check it out...
wwwDOTrerwareDOTcom
Can't post links yet :-(

PJnc284 said:
basically. It allows you to back up and restore apps, app data and market links. You can also back up call logs, sms, mms, calendar, contacts, alarms and some other miscellaneous things along with scheduled backups. I just find the interface to be much more user friendly than when I was playing around with Titanium Backup.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They basically do the same thing. Titanium backup does take a little getting used to, as the interface isn't very intuitive. Once you get used to it, you should have no problems.
Either one is good.

I looked up MyBackup on the Market and I see it'll back up apps but root is needed for app-data backups. Am I SOL for backing that up before rooting? I wonder if a non-wiping root method is forthcoming...
Sent from my HTC Thunderbolt using the XDA app

Titanium Backup Pro/Proper use

I'm noob and have TB Pro.
I'm starting this topic in hopes that people will submit their methods of use for employing this Powerful and Invaluable App..
I mainly use it to backup/reinstall apps and data. And remove bloat. It does so much more than that!
I think that MY restoring of certain data/system data from one ROM to another ROM has sometimes caused me problems.
I am trying to develop my own protocol for using TB Pro. I have gained much knowledge through trial, error and research but could really use the knowledge, experience and help of you people.
So how do YOU use TB PRO? What system data do you ALWAYS restore? What system data do you NEVER restore? Ect..
Thank you for your time, efforts energy and input.

I've found that generally the "Green" system settings can be restored, although sometimes if your ROM or Device is too different from the previous it won't work. For example from my Vibrant to the 4G it seemed the SMS storage is changed a bit and I had to manually pull the smsmms.db and transfer it.
My current system data I restore is generally:
Calendar
Bluetooth Pairings
SMS/MMS/APN Dialer Storage (this has the SMS)
Bookmarks
Wifi Access Points
User Dictionary
Calendar
Playlists
Wallpaper
Settings/bluetooth storage
Another thing I've found useful is the use of labels in TB. I have a "system" label for the above items, and "Apps with Data" which I put apps that have specific settings and such I don't feel like setting up after each flash. Handcent, Launchers, apps you have to 'sign in' to, alarms, etc.
Then I have multiple "restore" labels, I don't really like restoring everything at once usually, so I'll put my first 30 or so primary apps in a label, then the next 20-30, and restore them in batches. Usually my 1st restore point is the stuff I use daily, and the others are stuff I don't use as much. Sometimes I only restore the first one and reinstall individual apps as I need them.
I also have a dropbox label which I use to sync 'important' stuff to drop box.
These labels also help with the TB Schedules, I backup the "system" label more frequently then the others, etc.
If you do use labels, make sure you have "auto backup TB Data" option so your labels will restore when you wipe and reflash.

jalsing said:
I've found that generally the "Green" system settings can be restored, although sometimes if your ROM or Device is too different from the previous it won't work. For example from my Vibrant to the 4G it seemed the SMS storage is changed a bit and I had to manually pull the smsmms.db and transfer it.
My current system data I restore is generally:
Calendar
Bluetooth Pairings
SMS/MMS/APN Dialer Storage (this has the SMS)
Bookmarks
Wifi Access Points
User Dictionary
Calendar
Playlists
Wallpaper
Settings/bluetooth storage
Another thing I've found useful is the use of labels in TB. I have a "system" label for the above items, and "Apps with Data" which I put apps that have specific settings and such I don't feel like setting up after each flash. Handcent, Launchers, apps you have to 'sign in' to, alarms, etc.
Then I have multiple "restore" labels, I don't really like restoring everything at once usually, so I'll put my first 30 or so primary apps in a label, then the next 20-30, and restore them in batches. Usually my 1st restore point is the stuff I use daily, and the others are stuff I don't use as much. Sometimes I only restore the first one and reinstall individual apps as I need them.
I also have a dropbox label which I use to sync 'important' stuff to drop box.
These labels also help with the TB Schedules, I backup the "system" label more frequently then the others, etc.
If you do use labels, make sure you have "auto backup TB Data" option so your labels will restore when you wipe and reflash.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is a AWESOME reply! Exactly the kind of response I was hoping for.
It is informative, detailed, technical & the screen shot really helps put things into perspective for me.
Without getting into my TB details. I have done a cpl backups that you do and will now incorporate the ones you have given. I have never assigned any labels or schedules. I will start doing those things now.
The reason I posted this topic is because I'm noob. I have learned to flash properly and recover if I get into trouble.
Recently I have realized that the problems I have been having sometimes after flashing are a result of the things I DID after flashing and not that of the ROM, Mod, or Tweak that people work hard to develop and put together.
I want to minimize MY unnecessary (unwittingly) posts and in doing so the replies I get from the very helpful people in our Great Community.
If I can backup and restore my data properly after flashing then I will less likely believe I "found a bug" and will not have to seek help. That will benefit me by having my phone function at it's best and help the Community by keeping our threads shorter.
THANK YOU for your response

Restoring Settings with TiBu
jalsing said:
I've found that generally the "Green" system settings can be restored, although sometimes if your ROM or Device is too different from the previous it won't work. For example from my Vibrant to the 4G it seemed the SMS storage is changed a bit and I had to manually pull the smsmms.db and transfer it.
My current system data I restore is generally:
Calendar
Bluetooth Pairings
SMS/MMS/APN Dialer Storage (this has the SMS)
Bookmarks
Wifi Access Points
User Dictionary
Calendar
Playlists
Wallpaper
Settings/bluetooth storage
Another thing I've found useful is the use of labels in TB. I have a "system" label for the above items, and "Apps with Data" which I put apps that have specific settings and such I don't feel like setting up after each flash. Handcent, Launchers, apps you have to 'sign in' to, alarms, etc.
Then I have multiple "restore" labels, I don't really like restoring everything at once usually, so I'll put my first 30 or so primary apps in a label, then the next 20-30, and restore them in batches. Usually my 1st restore point is the stuff I use daily, and the others are stuff I don't use as much. Sometimes I only restore the first one and reinstall individual apps as I need them.
I also have a dropbox label which I use to sync 'important' stuff to drop box.
These labels also help with the TB Schedules, I backup the "system" label more frequently then the others, etc.
If you do use labels, make sure you have "auto backup TB Data" option so your labels will restore when you wipe and reflash.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In my case I do exactly the same as above but also have a TWRP backup of my entire ROM with all my preferred apps installed (and TiBu included) to quickly reflash the phone with this TWRP backup in case I break something (e.g., I tweak something I shouldn't have in the kernel). The TiBu backups I mainly use to restore an earlier app version if a new release of that app breaks functionality I've come to depend on (it happens often!) The unique issue I run into is that if I update my TiBu labels, they won't carry through after the ROM flash unless I backup the entire ROM all over again. I sure wish I could backup the TiBu labels and restore them. I hear Delta Backup can backup TiBu and its labels. I'll give it a shot next time but if anyone has any better ideas I'm all ears.

[Q] Titanium Backup: Restoring Contacts and Messages

Hi Gang,
Just looking for general advice and ideas regarding any solution to this puzzle!
Scenario:
Dell Streak 5, Android 2.2.2, GAUSB1A135100-EU
I've been using Titanium Backup Pro to keep regular backups of the data and apps on it.
Couple of weeks now Android Market was not allowing updates to run, giving the "101 error" etc that other people have posted. Most common solution to this seems to have been do a factory reset, to wipe off the linked gmail account, and recreate to get Market running again.
So I did a TB full backup, factory reset, and recreated my gmail account, and market is back up and running, and now updating the 20+ apps fine.
Problem: My Call Logs, Contacts and Messaging is still wiped, even after I have restore all my data and apps from Titanium Backup.
No, I did not have my contacts, etc synced to gmail, because I don't really use it that much and was concerned about privacy issues.
The question I have is this: Did the full data and app backup I performed on Titanium Backup backup my Contacts and SMS/MMS/Messages? If yes, then why will they not restore? If no, then is there any way to recover or locate them?
I'd like to recover my Messaging section most of all, if possible!
Many thanks, in advance.
WB

If I'm not mistaken, the SMS messages are under the TB entry named "[SMS/MMS/APN] Mobile Network Configuration" Try double checking you restored the backup for that.

WikedBlade said:
Hi Gang,
Just looking for general advice and ideas regarding any solution to this puzzle!
Scenario:
Dell Streak 5, Android 2.2.2, GAUSB1A135100-EU
I've been using Titanium Backup Pro to keep regular backups of the data and apps on it.
Couple of weeks now Android Market was not allowing updates to run, giving the "101 error" etc that other people have posted. Most common solution to this seems to have been do a factory reset, to wipe off the linked gmail account, and recreate to get Market running again.
So I did a TB full backup, factory reset, and recreated my gmail account, and market is back up and running, and now updating the 20+ apps fine.
Problem: My Call Logs, Contacts and Messaging is still wiped, even after I have restore all my data and apps from Titanium Backup.
No, I did not have my contacts, etc synced to gmail, because I don't really use it that much and was concerned about privacy issues.
The question I have is this: Did the full data and app backup I performed on Titanium Backup backup my Contacts and SMS/MMS/Messages? If yes, then why will they not restore? If no, then is there any way to recover or locate them?
I'd like to recover my Messaging section most of all, if possible!
Many thanks, in advance.
WB
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No the data and app backup did not back those up.

@JMC: Thanks for the reply; yeah I've tried doing a restore on any item relating to Contacts, Messaging, SMS/MMS that is coming up in the Restore list under TB, all of which appear as Green items and sometimes with the [] at the start as you indicated.
Unfortunately, none seem to be restoring the messages etc. I've even looked on the microSD card to see if the TB backup files are empty, and they appear to be healthy sizes, so there must be "something" backed up in them....

@Zelendel: Thanks; well if what you say is true, then that is a damn shame. I figured TB would do a more complete job of backing everything up like it promises... bad assumption on my part if you're sure of your information.
I guess I'll see if anyone has a contradicting opinion, and the move on.
I wonder if you have any recommendations on how to backup that stuff for future adventures? Thinking of syncing Outlook with Gmail and then syncing the Streak with Gmail from now on.... mind you that won't secure SMS/MMS correspondence, just my issue of Contacts!

Titanium Backup will backup everything, but you have to make sure you have it backing up system app data if too, because the messaging app for texting is a system app. Regular app and data backup does not backup any system apps. You just have to be careful when restoring system app data. I tried restoring gmail settings to a newer version of gmail and I caused syncing to completely stop working. I haven't had any problems restoring SMS/MMS though.
Sent from my Full CM9 on ThinkPad Tablet using Tapatalk

WikedBlade said:
@Zelendel: Thanks; well if what you say is true, then that is a damn shame. I figured TB would do a more complete job of backing everything up like it promises... bad assumption on my part if you're sure of your information.
I guess I'll see if anyone has a contradicting opinion, and the move on.
I wonder if you have any recommendations on how to backup that stuff for future adventures? Thinking of syncing Outlook with Gmail and then syncing the Streak with Gmail from now on.... mind you that won't secure SMS/MMS correspondence, just my issue of Contacts!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes as stated above. Messaging is a system app so it your backing up user apps and data then it will not back up your messages. Then you get into the issue that unless you flash the excat same rom it is never advised to restore system data of any kind as there could be big changes that restoring system data breaks. I would use a 3rd party app to back it up.

LAst time i backed up all my messages call logs and contacts, was using an app called super backup. Havent found anything wrong with it. Forgot which folder it stores the files in, but after i did factory reset and downloaded the app again, i was able to restore everything. Hope it helps

WikedBlade said:
Hi Gang,
The question I have is this: Did the full data and app backup I performed on Titanium Backup backup my Contacts and SMS/MMS/Messages? If yes, then why will they not restore? If no, then is there any way to recover or locate them?
I'd like to recover my Messaging section most of all, if possible!
Many thanks, in advance.
WB
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi @WikedBlade!
I realise its probably too late to b answering ur q. But perhaps this cud b of help to u in the future:
TB does backup cal logs, contacts, n msgs if u choose to backup sys data. And generally, after doing a restore u need to reboot ur fone for the data to b back again.
It's that simple . And do remember nvr to use backup n restore of sys data unless u r going to b using the exact same ROM b4 n after!

greatttt... thxxx totally helped me out in this matter

StygiAn TrepidAtioN said:
Hi @WikedBlade!
I realise its probably too late to b answering ur q. But perhaps this cud b of help to u in the future:
TB does backup cal logs, contacts, n msgs if u choose to backup sys data. And generally, after doing a restore u need to reboot ur fone for the data to b back again.
It's that simple . And do remember nvr to use backup n restore of sys data unless u r going to b using the exact same ROM b4 n after!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And if i use a different rom?

dramalicious said:
And if i use a different rom?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Then it isn't advisable to restore system data from TB as
it can cause sync issues or even break certain system functionalities.
So, in the case that you're planning to use a different ROM, I'd recommend that you backup your call logs, messages on this app called SMS Backup & Restore by Carbonite. Thru this you can restore on any ROM thereafter.

Backup App

Hi,
If installing a new rom wipes all data, when will we have a backup apps like the titanium Backup for Android????
Windows sinc is cool to restore the contacts but doesn't restore emails and apps

Emails should generally be left on the server (by default the phone only caches them for a few weeks anyhow) but yes, the app data is an issue. There's supposedly a good backup app coming, but I've yet to see it in any way other than a teaser screenshot so I can't tell you how close it is to readiness. There are other backup options, but (while I've never used Titanium Backup and therefore can't compare it) none of the currently-published ones are *really* easy.

GoodDayToDie said:
Emails should generally be left on the server (by default the phone only caches them for a few weeks anyhow) but yes, the app data is an issue. There's supposedly a good backup app coming, but I've yet to see it in any way other than a teaser screenshot so I can't tell you how close it is to readiness. There are other backup options, but (while I've never used Titanium Backup and therefore can't compare it) none of the currently-published ones are *really* easy.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
where did you see the screenshot???

having done this exercise recently let me tell you of my experience:
1. i had a a backup in zune, incase i wanted to return
2. switched to Tango based rom, used SMSbackup to restore. Though it restored the text messages it kinda screws up the contact list and e-mail accounts. Currently, not stable and fixed. Known issue.
3. Zune backup restore didn't happen, got 801812E0 error and got screwed
4. Though you will lose your saved games, achievements will be there. You can look into using WP7 root data and use it to backup data. I had backed whatsapp messages through this method.

Moved To WP7 Q&A​
Please do not post questions in the development section​

darthveda said:
having done this exercise recently let me tell you of my experience:
1. i had a a backup in zune, incase i wanted to return
2. switched to Tango based rom, used SMSbackup to restore. Though it restored the text messages it kinda screws up the contact list and e-mail accounts. Currently, not stable and fixed. Known issue.
3. Zune backup restore didn't happen, got 801812E0 error and got screwed
4. Though you will lose your saved games, achievements will be there. You can look into using WP7 root data and use it to backup data. I had backed whatsapp messages through this method.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is SMSBackup a built-in app for the computer, the phone or does it have to be downloaded from the Marketplace? I really want to be able to backup my SMS messages.

Yeah, I just installed a custom rom and I was under the impression that Zune does a backup and when you re-connect, it will restore at least some things. hahaha. No way. Then I found out that the restore will only restore your phone after it does a software update through Zune. I am used to WebOS, which was great in restoring almost everything over the air.
Hope we get a good backup soon.
But, does anyone know if there is a place on the local computer that would have at least the Internet shortcuts from WP? I looked under some of the Zune folders but didn't see anything.