How to Transfer Data from Your Old iPhone to a New One (2024 Guide)

Switching to a new iPhone? Transferring your data doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you’re upgrading to the latest model or moving to a refurbished device, this guide covers all the best methods to seamlessly transfer your photos, apps, messages, and settings.

1. Before You Start: Prepare Both iPhones

✅ Back up your old iPhone (iCloud or iTunes).
✅ Update iOS on both devices.
✅ Ensure both have Wi-Fi & Bluetooth enabled.
✅ Keep them plugged into power (for large transfers).

2. Method 1: Quick Start (Fastest & Easiest)

Best for direct iPhone-to-iPhone transfers.

Steps:

1. Turn on your new iPhone and place it near your old one.

2. A "Set Up New iPhone" prompt appears—tap Continue.

3. Scan the floating animation with your old iPhone’s camera.

4. Enter your old device’s passcode on the new iPhone.

5. Choose Transfer from iPhone and wait (time depends on data size).

⚠ Note: Both iPhones must run iOS 12.4 or later.

3. Method 2: iCloud Backup (Wireless)

Best for those who prefer cloud backups.

Steps:

1. On your old iPhone, go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup.

2. Tap Back Up Now (ensure Wi-Fi is connected).

3. On your new iPhone, follow setup until you reach Apps & Data.

4. Select Restore from iCloud Backup and sign in.

5. Choose the latest backup and wait.

📌 Pros: No cables needed.
📌 Cons: Slower for large backups; requires iCloud storage.

4. Method 3: iTunes/Finder Backup (Wired, Most Reliable)

Best for large transfers or poor Wi-Fi.

Steps (Mac/PC):

1. Connect your old iPhone to a computer.

2. Open iTunes (Windows) or Finder (Mac).

3. Click Back Up Now (encrypt backup for passwords/Health data).

4. Set up your new iPhone and choose Restore from Mac/PC.

5. Select the backup file and wait.

💡 Tip: Faster than iCloud for 100GB+ data.

5. Method 4: Direct Cable Transfer (iOS 12.4+)

Best for quick wired transfers without a computer.

Steps:

1. Connect both iPhones using a Lightning-to-USB 3 Camera Adapter + Lightning cable.

2. Follow the on-screen prompts (similar to Quick Start).

3. Select Transfer Directly from iPhone.

⚡ Faster than wireless for huge photo/video libraries.

6. What Transfers? What Doesn’t?

✅ Transferred Automatically:

• Contacts, Messages, Photos, Apps

• Settings (Wi-Fi, Display, Sounds)

• Apple Pay, Health Data (if encrypted)

❌ Doesn’t Transfer:

• Face ID/Touch ID settings

• Apple Watch pairings (must re-pair)

• Some app logins (banking apps, 2FA codes)

7. Troubleshooting Common Issues

🔴 Not Enough iCloud Storage → Use iTunes/Finder or buy more iCloud space.
🔴 Transfer Stuck? → Restart both iPhones and retry.
🔴 Apps Not Downloading? → Check App Store updates.

8. Pro Tips for a Smooth Transfer

✔ Delete unused apps/files before transferring.
✔ Use Wi-Fi 6 or Ethernet for faster iCloud backups.
✔ Keep both iPhones close until the transfer finishes.

Ready to Switch?

Now you can easily move all your data without losing anything!

Upgrading to a new iPhone? Check out iRenew’s certified devices →