How to use Shizuku with Swift Backup to batch restore your Android apps after a factory reset (no root required)

swift backup app

Back in the early days of Android, Titanium Backup was considered the go-to backup solution for those with full root access. Its impact on the power user community over the years is undeniable. However, Titanium Backup’s days are numbered because the original developer no longer updates the app.

Swift Backup is the perfect choice for all your backup needs, giving you offline and custom cloud storage options without requiring root access. It relies on the Shizuku service, which uses powerful on-device ADB commands and system APIs to elevate your Android experience. This allows you to have temporary higher-level system privileges without rooting your device, perfect for those who like to tinker with minimal risk. Using Swift Backup after a factory reset can save time, battery, and network data since you don’t have to redownload your apps from the Google Play Store.

ADB backup APIs are deprecated by Google and most apps do not work with the ADB backup method anymore.

One caveat though is that private app data, in /data/data/ or /data/user/*/ that stores your app preferences, login info, databases, etc, still requires root access, and can’t be handled by Shizuku. However, the APK, app external data, and media can be backed up. So, re-authentications may be required, but I suppose it does still save masses of time from not having to re-download each app.

See https://www.androidpolice.com/how-to-use-shizuku-to-restore-your-android-apps/