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I'm finally getting ready to install an Android client. I believe Android Wallet is the most popular one.

How do I back up the bitcoins stored on it?

Also, is there a thin native Android client being developed?

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  • foldersync looks good to backup into my owncloud webdav. But which folders do i have to backup to be able to restore bitcoin wallet?
    – user1421
    Commented May 27, 2012 at 15:06
  • P.S. I ended up using the Android version of Blockchain's MyWallet, which has built in backup to email/dropbox/google drive.
    – ripper234
    Commented May 27, 2012 at 16:54
  • possible duplicate of Is there a known way to export my wallet private key from the "Bitcoin Android" app (com.bitcoinandroid)?
    – Stephen Gornick
    Commented Oct 11, 2012 at 18:09
  • Andreas, once stored, how does this "private key" work as a backup tool? If my phone is lost, how can I retrieve the balance that was in the android wallet on my pc for example?
    – Tom
    Commented Nov 3, 2013 at 0:05
  • 1
    @Tom - most clients support importing a private key (how to do this is client-specific)
    – ripper234
    Commented Nov 3, 2013 at 9:41

2 Answers 2

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Bitcoin Wallet for Android supports backing up your private keys to external storage (e.g. SD Card). Just select "Export/Import private keys" from the action bar overflow menu.

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    Just to note v4.3.2 (not sure when it changed) of bitcoin wallet backup wallet/restore wallet are in safety menu which can be found in the overflow menu.
    – scottyab
    Commented Jun 15, 2015 at 9:06
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As with any backup solution you must test it yourself through the whole cycle first in a zero risk scenario.

Mycelium has an excellent backup solution which outputs a seed phrase for a HD wallet

You can then store this any way you wish, for example on paper in a physically secure location.

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  • I think I'll wait for a good light client. I just wanted to play around with some coins on my android, but it's not urgent (I really don't have anywhere to spend them anyway at this point).
    – ripper234
    Commented Jan 10, 2012 at 17:24
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    Yes it takes an age to get started, even on a wifi connection. I think mine took over 24 hours. But after that it's sweet and I like to keep a few on there just in case. There are people beginning to accept them, and I couldn't miss the opportunity. Sometimes it's scary when the wallet becomes worth more than the hardware though! :-)
    – barrymac
    Commented Jan 10, 2012 at 17:31
  • Things change a lot since the first answer, updated.
    – barrymac
    Commented Dec 8, 2015 at 16:39

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