How can I backup sms messages from Android to Mac for printing?

The SMS messaging app on Android does not provide a print feature. I am wondering it is possible to do this on my Mac.


The Android phone is Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and I need to pull off several text conversions and print it out. I tried to screen shot the message conversions but the photos are blurred when printing as image.


Is there any workaround to let me backup sms messages from Android to Mac as xlsx or html for easy printing?

MacBook Pro (M2, 2022)

Posted on Jul 21, 2025 03:39 AM

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4 replies

Jul 23, 2025 02:22 AM in response to Ferre2

To backup SMS from Android to Mac, you can follow these steps:


1. Install a Backup App:

Use apps like SMS Backup & Restore from the Google Play Store.


2. Backup SMS on Android:

Open the app and create a backup of your SMS messages.

Save the backup file (usually in XML format) to your device storage.


3. Transfer and Backup SMS from Android to Mac:

Connect your Android device to your Mac using a USB cable.

Enable file transfer mode on your Android device.

Copy the backup file to your Mac.


4. Access on Mac:

Keep the backup file stored on your Mac for safekeeping or further processing.


Jul 21, 2025 08:08 AM in response to Ferre2

Yes, there are several ways you can backup your SMS messages from your Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra to your Mac in a format that is suitable for printing, such as xlsx or html.


One option is to use a third-party app or software that allows you to transfer your SMS messages from your Android phone to your Mac. There are many apps available that can do this, such as Android File Transfer, Samsung Smart Switch, or third-party apps like SMS Backup & Restore or iSkysoft Toolbox - Android Data Backup & Restore.


These tools usually allow you to backup your SMS messages in various formats, including xlsx or html, making it easier for you to print them out on your Mac. Simply follow the instructions provided by the app or software to transfer and save your SMS messages in your desired format.


Alternatively, you can also try emailing the SMS messages to yourself from your Android phone and then accessing and saving them on your Mac. This way, you can choose to save the emails in a format that is compatible with printing, such as xlsx or html.


I hope one of these options helps you backup and print out your SMS messages from your Android phone on your Mac!

Jul 23, 2025 02:33 AM in response to Ferre2

To backup SMS from Android to Mac. I once tried some sketchy free app that promised to do the job, but it either failed halfway or corrupted my messages. Always go for trusted apps like Android File Transfer, or dedicated backup tools like Samsung Smart Switch if you're on Samsung. I forgot to turn on developer options or grant permissions, and the transfer just didn’t work. Make sure you enable USB debugging on your Android device and allow all prompts when connecting to Mac.


I once spent ages troubleshooting until I realized the USB cable was dodgy when doing backup SMS from Android to Mac. Use a good quality cable and connect directly to your Mac’s port rather than through a hub. If you're using third-party apps, be cautious — your messages are private, after all. Avoid shady apps that ask for unnecessary permissions, and delete any sensitive info after printing. When I finally printed, some messages were duplicated or had weird formatting. Clean up the data if needed — maybe manually edit or use tools to remove duplicates.

Jul 21, 2025 05:07 AM in response to Ferre2

If you have a Mac it can be done.


The pdf document will have date and time along with all message thread.


  • Enable iCloud Messages on iPhone
  • Text Message Forwarding to mac (Use Same Apple ID)
  • On Mac Open iMessage > Select the Message Thread > File > Print > Save as PDF


Please note that this process may or may not fulfill your legal requirements. It is advisable to consult with a competent lawyer to gain clarity on what can be considered admissible as evidence in a court of law.



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How can I backup sms messages from Android to Mac for printing?

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