Got new iPhone? Here's how to transfer all your data quickly and easily

Quick Start

The Quick Start feature is built into all iPhones and iPads starting with iOS 11 and iPadOS 13. It simplifies the data transfer process by performing it automatically. You won't even need a backup copy of your data, but you should have your old iPhone handy.

Make sure your old iPhone is connected to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth is turned on. Then place both devices next to each other, and the old phone will ask you to set up the new one.

After confirming your Apple ID, you need to scan the animation to link the devices, and all the data - apps, settings, messages, and photos - will be transferred to the new iPhone on its own. The only downside is that the process can take time, so it's important to keep both devices close by and charged.

All your data can be transferred wirelessly (photo: MakeUseOf)

iCloud

Another way to transfer data is via iCloud. With this method, you don't need an old iPhone, but you need to create a backup copy in advance.

How to make sure you have an up-to-date copy:

• Open Settings on your old iPhone and tap on your name at the top of the screen
• Select "iCloud", then "Backup"
• Click Create backup.

If you have trouble syncing, you can learn common iCloud errors and how to fix them.

When setting up your new device, select Restore from iCloud Backup and sign in with your Apple ID. Then select your most recent backup and wait for the download to complete without unplugging your device.

How to transfer data with iCloud (photo: MakeUseOf)

iTunes

Transferring via iTunes lets you download data to your new iPhone from your computer. To do this, you'll need a backup created on your Mac or PC.

How to create a copy in iTunes:

• Connect your old iPhone to your computer
• Open Finder (on macOS Catalina and later) or iTunes (on Windows and older versions of macOS)
• Select your device, click Create Backup, and wait for it to complete.

After that, you can transfer your data to a new iPhone:

• Select "Restore from Mac or PC backup"
• Connect your new iPhone to the computer
• Open Finder or iTunes, click Restore from this backup, and select the latest backup
• Wait for the process to complete before using your device.

How to transfer data with iTunes (photo: MakeUseOf)

Wired connection

One of the fastest ways to transfer data is with a wired connection. It requires a charging cable and both iPhones. The type of cable depends on the device model:

For iPhone 15, iPhone 16, and newer models, you'll need a USB-C cable for charging

To transfer data from iPhone 14 or older to iPhone 15 or later, you need a Lightning-USB C cable

If you're transferring data from an iPhone 14 or older to another iPhone 14 or later, you'll need a Lightning-USB 3 camera adapter and a Lightning-USB cable.

Connect the devices to each other. If you have an iPhone 14 or older, first connect the adapter to your old smartphone, then use the cable to connect to your new one. Turn on your new iPhone and follow the instructions, selecting "Transfer from iPhone" when prompted.

Keep the devices on and monitor the charge during the transfer. When it's done, all the information from your old device will appear on your new iPhone.

Which method to choose

• Quick Start - the most convenient option for direct transfer
• iCloud is ideal if you don't have your old device at hand
• iTunes - suitable for those who prefer to store backups on a computer
• A wired connection is the fastest way, but may require additional cables.

Transferring data is just the first step after you buy a new iPhone. Don't forget to customize your device to your preferences and enable important features.

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