Android Mobile Backup FAQs

General FAQs

Security/Privacy

Features/Benefits


What is Mobile Backup?

Mobile Backup is a service that stores your phone's address book on a secure T-Mobile server, which is accessible through MobileLife on my.t-mobile.com.
Mobile Backup gives T-Mobile customers peace of mind knowing their important information will not be lost if their phone is damaged, lost, or stolen, and allows them to avoid the hassle of manually re-entering all of their contact information into a new phone if they upgrade to a new phone.

Is there a fee to use Mobile Backup?

Mobile Backup is included in most rate plans at no additional charge.

How does Mobile Backup work on my Android phone?

You can select whether you want to back up your address book manually or have it backed up automatically every time you make a change to it.
If you select the Always In Sync option, every time you add or edit a contact to your phone's address book, the same change will be made on the servers without you needing to do anything. If you delete a contact on your phone, you can restore or permanently delete it from the Trash Can on my.t-mobile.com. You can continue to use your phone while the changes are being synchronized.

What devices are compatible with Mobile Backup?

Most of our devices are Mobile Backup capable, and there will be even more in the future. To see all the Mobile Backup enabled handsets, go to What phones are compatible with Mobile Backup?

How can I get Mobile Backup on my Android phone?

On your device, go to the Android Marketplace and search for Mobile Backup. Download and install the application, and then follow the on-screen instructions.

How do I access my saved contacts on the Web?

To manage your contacts on the Web, go to my.t-mobile.com and log in with your mobile phone number and password. Then, go to MobileLife, and then Contacts.

What information can I store on Mobile Backup?

You can store all your contacts' details including Name, Phone Numbers, E-mail Addresses, Home and Office Addresses, Instant Messenger ID’s and more.

Why is Mobile Backup better than storing numbers on my SIM card?

Mobile Backup provides far more storage capabilities than your SIM card. A SIM card only allows you to store a name and a single phone number per contact. Mobile Backup allows you to store names along with multiple addresses and phone numbers. In addition, Mobile Backup provides you the peace of mind of knowing your contacts will not be lost if you lose or damage your phone or SIM card.

Is my contact information secure?

Your contact information is maintained on a secure server. We will not use your contacts for any marketing purposes. If you choose to cancel your T-Mobile account, your contacts will be deleted from the server.

What if I don't want my contacts on the T-Mobile Server?

If you do not want to participate in Mobile Backup, you can discontinue the service by calling Customer Care.

Will T-Mobile use my contact information?

Your contact information is backed-up for your benefit only. T-Mobile will not use your contacts for marketing or other purposes without your consent.

How often does my phone sync with Mobile Backup?

There are two syncing options within Mobile Backup.
If you elect the Always In Sync option, your phone will automatically sync every time you make a change to your phone's address book.
If you choose the One Time Sync option, the phone will not sync unless you ask it to.
You can change your selection at any time via the Settings option within the Mobile Backup application on your phone.

Can I import contacts from my non-T-Mobile phone?

No, not with Mobile Backup.

Can I import contacts from Outlook?

Yes, you can import your contacts from Outlook, Outlook Express, or any .vcf file.

Can I export my contacts from Mobile Backup?

No, you cannot export your contacts from Mobile Backup to a different program.

How many contacts can I save with Mobile Backup?

You can save up to 2000 contacts on the T-Mobile server. Your phone may be capable of storing fewer contacts. Please check your phone manual for this information.

Can I delete all my contacts off the server?

You can delete your contacts from your phone or from my.t-mobile.com. You may also restore your deleted contacts by going to Deleted contacts under Groups on my.t-mobile.com. If you empty your Deleted contacts folder, the deleted contacts will be removed from our servers.
NOTE: Deleting your existing contacts is not the same as opting out of the Mobile Backup service, and new contact information you enter may be stored on our servers. Call Customer Care to opt out of the Mobile Backup service.

tm23854


Back to top Back to top
Print Print
Did we help?
Did this article help you?
Yes, the problem is solved!
Yes, but the instructions were unclear.
Yes, but it was not the answer I was hoping for.
No, it did not address my particular situation.
No, not even close!