How to Set Up Coinbase Wallet on a New Phone

Getting a new phone doesn't mean you have to lose your cryptocurrency. This guide will help you set up your Coinbase Wallet on a new device while keeping your digital assets safe.

Before You Start: What You Need

Needed Items

Your 12-word recovery phrase (you created this when you set up the wallet)
Your new phone (either iPhone or Android)
A stable internet connection
About 15 minutes of your time

Security Notice

? Never share your recovery phrase with anyone – not even Coinbase support.
? Do this in a private area to avoid prying eyes.
? Turn off clipboard history if you're using Android.

Steps to Recover Your Wallet

Step 1: Get the App

For iPhone: Download it from the App Store
For Android: Download it from Google Play

⚠️ Important: Make sure the developer is Coinbase, Inc. before you install.

Step 2: Start Recovery

Open the app you just installed.
Tap I already have a wallet.
Choose Restore with recovery phrase.
Pick either 12-word or 24-word phrase (most people use 12).

Step 3: Enter Your Recovery Phrase

Type each word manually; don’t copy and paste.
Make sure the order is correct (Word 1, Word 2, … Word 12).
Double-check the spelling – alter is not the same as altar.
Use the BIP39 word list if you need it.

Step 4: Set Up New Security

Create a new 6-digit PIN (make it different from your old one).
Turn on biometric authentication (Face ID/Touch ID/Fingerprint).
Set up transaction confirmations.
Go through all security settings.

Step 5: Confirm Restoration

Check your wallet balance (it might take a bit to sync).
Look at your transaction history.
Make sure your connected apps are working.
Send a small test transaction to be sure.

Troubleshooting Issues

Problem	Solution
Invalid recovery phrase	Check order and spelling using the BIP39 list.
Missing tokens	Add them manually via Settings → Add Tokens.
Balance shows zero	Check your address on Etherscan.
Biometrics not functioning	Use your PIN for now and reset security settings later.
Old transactions aren't visible	Wait about 15 minutes for everything to sync.

Boosting Security on Your New Device

Turn on all available security features
- Transaction whitelisting
- Spending limits
- Permissions for connected apps
Enhance your phone's security
- Use full device encryption
- Set a short screen lock timeout (1 minute max)
- Disable notifications previews
Think about hardware support
- Connect Ledger/Trezor if you have a lot of coins.
- Use a different browser for any crypto activity.

FAQs about Setting Up Your Wallet on a New Phone

1. Can I restore without the 12-word phrase?

> No. You need the recovery phrase. Coinbase can’t help without it.

2. Will my NFTs automatically transfer?

> Yes, all assets linked to your wallet will be there after restoration.

3. Is it okay to use the same wallet on two phones?

> It can work, but it's not the best idea due to safety concerns.

4. What if my new phone gets stolen after I set it up?

> Your funds stay safe as long as your recovery phrase and PIN are secure.

5. Why don't I see all my tokens after restoring?

> Some custom tokens might need to be added manually. Check your address on a blockchain explorer.

6. Can I change my recovery phrase during this process?

> No, you'd need to create a new wallet and move your funds.

7. How can I tell if the restoration worked?

> Check: 1) Correct balance 2) Your transaction history 3) Successful test transaction.

Tips for Advanced Users

Use multiple devices
- Keep a backup device for emergencies.
- Use different wallets based on risk levels.
Monitor transactions
- Set alerts for your addresses.
- Use portfolio trackers for easier management.
Regularly check your security
- Do quarterly reviews of all connected services.
- Check annually that your backup is good.