Tech support swears that apps will sync/copy to a new upgrade phone but they do not. This is a new policy for Android users---no global apps syncs from cloud. In a recent upgrade I was forced to repurchase previously purchased apps for which I had fo

ralphie1313

Tech support swears that apps will sync/copy to a new upgrade phone but they do not. There is a new policy for Android users that tech support people are unaware---no global apps syncs from cloud. In a recent upgrade I was forced to repurchase previously purchased apps for which I had forgotten username/password. Two tech supports people who helped me with backup prior to new phone purchase insisted that my 400 apps would globally copy over to new phone. After setup a tech support person accessible only through Verizon store staff said that is incorrect: all apps must be manually uploaded from Playstore and set up again. This cost me $50 in repurchases of important apps I use in business that were purchases long ago. I could not log in (forgot passwords,etc.). Training of tech support people is woefully deficient if they are causing customers to repurchase apps. 250,000 upgraded phone x average $50 in repurchases = $12,500,000 in unnecessary expenses for people who simply upgraded their Android smartphone. THE T-MOBILE OFFER TO PAY FOR CANCELLATION FEES IS LOOKING VERY GOOD RIGHT NOW. I have been with Verizon since 1991.

SuzyQ

As long as you use the same google account for the playstore, the apps DO transfer to the new device.  I have had several Android phones and tablets, I use both free and purchased apps, and have never had an issue  being unable to get my apps on the new device(s).  I use the same Google account on all devices... everything syncs.

I have it set up so it doesn't happen automatically though - I grab the apps when connected to wifi, and I take time when setting up a new device and go through the apps to be sure I actually need all the ones I've used in the past.  It makes for a cleaner system...  I did have one phone that went to the playstore and downloaded all my apps automatically though - and you can go to the playstore on your computer or phone, go to My Apps and see all your downloaded apps (paid for and free) and which devices they are loaded on and compatible with, and send them to other devices too.  Without having to pay again, in most cases.  I guess it would depend on the app, if it charges per device install or if it's a one time purchase for all devices.

You said the apps were purchased "long ago" - and you could not log in...to the app itself or to the playstore?  Most apps have a way to recover the password or reset it if you have forgotten.