If you use both an iPhone and an Android device, you’ve probably hit this frustrating wall. your reminders are trapped in two different worlds. Apple’s Reminders app works only with iCloud, while Android’s reminders live in Google’s ecosystem.
But don’t worry, you can sync reminders between iPhone and Android. In this guide, we’ll explore the easiest free method, powerful alternatives, and advanced tools for productivity lovers.
Why Don’t iPhone and Android Reminders Sync Natively?
It all comes down to ecosystem lock-in:
• Apple Reminders works best with iCloud and Apple Calendar.
• Android reminders rely on Google Tasks and Google Calendar.
Because Apple and Google don’t play nicely together, you’ll need to bridge the gap with Google, Microsoft, or third-party apps.
Method 1:
Sync with Your Google Account (The Easiest Free Way)
The simplest approach is to use Google Tasks and Google Calendar. They work across both platforms and are completely free.
Step-by-Step Setting It Up on Your Android Device
- Open the Google Calendar or Google Tasks app.
- Sign in with your Google account.
- Create a reminder or task, it’s now saved in the cloud.
Step-by-Step: Syncing Your Google Account with Your iPhone
- On your iPhone, go to Settings > Calendar > Accounts (sometimes under Mail > Accounts).
- Tap Add Account > Google.
- Sign in with the same Google account you used on Android.
- Turn on the toggle for Calendars. This syncs reminders to the Apple Calendar app.
- Recommended for best experience: Download the free Google Calendar and Google Tasks apps from the App Store. This gives you a consistent interface across iPhone and Android, with no syncing headaches.
Method 2:
Sync with Microsoft To Do (A Powerful Alternative)
If you’d rather skip Google, Microsoft To Do is one of the best cross-platform reminder apps.
How Microsoft To Do Creates a Seamless Bridge
- Works instantly on iPhone, Android, Windows, and web.
- Supports recurring tasks, deadlines, and notifications.
- Lets you share and collaborate on lists.
- Connects with Outlook and Office 365 for professionals.
Method 3:
For Power Users (Dedicated Third-Party Apps)
Want more control, project management, or habit tracking? Try these:
Our Top Pick: Todoist
- Clean design + powerful organization tools.
- Supports priorities, labels, and natural-language input.
- Works everywhere: iOS, Android, desktop, web.
A Strong Contender: TickTick
- Combines reminders, calendar, and habit tracker.
- Great for productivity enthusiasts.
- Free plan with affordable premium upgrade.
Comparison at a Glance
Troubleshooting Common Sync Issues
- Reminders not showing on iPhone? > Check if Google/Microsoft account is enabled under Accounts.
- Sync delays? > Turn on Background App Refresh for the app.
- Duplicate accounts? > Confirm you’re signed into the same account on both devices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Not directly. Use Google, Microsoft To Do, or third-party apps instead.
Yes, with Google, Microsoft To Do, Todoist, and TickTick. Location reminders may vary.
Yes. Google and Microsoft use encrypted syncing. Always use official apps + two-factor authentication.
Final Recommendation: The Best Way to Sync Reminders in 2025
- While there’s no single “best” method for everyone, choosing comes down to your needs:
- For a free and simple fix, go with Google Tasks + Calendar.
- For collaboration and professional use, choose Microsoft To Do.
- For power users and productivity lovers, invest in Todoist or TickTick.
Bottom line:
If you just want reliable, hassle-free syncing, Google Tasks and Calendar are still the best bet in 2025.
