How to Transfer Data From iPhone to iPhone: 3 Tested Methods

March 15, 2024 By Janne Smith No Comments 7 minutes

Getting a new iPhone often leads to another head-scratching activity of how to transfer data from iPhone to iPhone. And despite how technical it sounds, learning how to transfer data to a new iPhone is way easier than you thought.

Speaking of data transfers, we see a flood of Gen Z rushing to get their hands on every new iPhone release. According to Bloomberg Intelligence’s study (2023), a 7% yearly growth in Apple’s user base is predicted due to Gen Z choosing iPhones. With slightly higher prices, this could lead to a 10% revenue increase for Apple.

Jumping back to “how to transfer data to a new iPhone,” this article perfectly explains 3 ways to do that. Let’s dive in!

Note: We don’t encourage using third-party apps to transfer data from iPhone to iPhone. Since they aren’t directly associated with Apple, you should expect a few of them to contain cybersecurity threats, such as malware or viruses. Even if you opt for them, you must use FastestVPN for guaranteed data protection.

Can You Transfer Data From iPhone to iPhone After Setup

If you got a new iPhone and forgot to transfer data before setup, that’s totally fine! You can always transfer data from iPhone to iPhone after setup. You can do this through a factory reset, which we’ll already cover in the coming sections of this article.

However, for a brief overview, here are 3 ways for transferring data from iPhone to iPhone after setup:

• Transfer Data Through a Factory Reset
• Transfer Data From iPhone to iPhone Through PC
• Transfer Data From iPhone to iPhone via Third-Party Apps

Does Transferring Data From iPhone to iPhone Need WiFi

Typically, data transfers from iPhone to iPhone require WiFi. However, data transfers through cable or a few other methods don’t specifically require a stable WiFi connection. Here are the typical methods for “how to transfer data to a new iPhone” and why they require WiFi:

1. Data Transfer Quick Start

This method uses a peer-to-peer Wi-Fi connection between the two iPhones to transfer data directly. Cellular data wouldn’t be sufficient for the large amount of data involved.

2. Data Restoration Through iCloud Backup

This method downloads your data from the iCloud servers, requiring a stable internet connection (ideally Wi-Fi, as cellular data usage can be significant and costly, depending on your plan).

Now that you know of the benefits of the WiFi connection, let’s jump on to the next section, focusing on ways to transfer data from iPhone to iPhone.

How to Transfer Data From iPhone to iPhone: The 3 Foolproof Methods

According to Demandsage, as of 2024, iPhones make up nearly 29% of all smartphones used worldwide. And if you’ve got a new iPhone, here are the top 3 methods for how to transfer data to a new iPhone:

1. Restore Data to a New iPhone Using iCloud

Before proceeding with this step, you must update your iCloud. Additionally, you’ll need to reset your iPhone if you’ve already set up your iPhone. However, if you haven’t moved on with the setup, simply ensure a backed-up iCloud, and that’s all.

Here’s how you can restore data to a new iPhone using iCloud:

• Verify that a recent backup exists before proceeding.
• Power on your new iPhone and connect it to a Wi-Fi network.
• Navigate to the “Apps & Data” section.
• Choose “Restore from iCloud Backup” and sign in with your Apple ID and password.
• Select the most recent and relevant backup from your available options.

2. Transfer Phone’s Data From iPhone to iPhone With Quick Start

This method for how to transfer data to a new iPhone requires you to have both your new and old iPhones and either plug them into the charger or ensure they’ve enough battery. Here’s how you can transfer data through Quick Start:

• Bring both iPhones close together (Bluetooth on in old iPhone).
• Power on your new iPhone and wait for a prompt on the old iPhone.
• Tap “Continue” on the old iPhone, then scan the animation on the new iPhone with the old iPhone’s camera.
• Enter your new iPhone’s passcode and Apple ID (set up Face ID optionally).
• Choose “Transfer from iPhone” and wait for the transfer to complete.
• Keep both iPhones near each other throughout the process.

3. Transfer Data From iPhone to iPhone With iTunes

You can now also transfer data from iPhone to iPhone through iTunes and your PC. However, you must ensure that you’ve got the latest iTunes version. Similar to iCloud, you’ve to keep the iTunes backed up.

• Here’s a step-by-step tutorial on how you can transfer data through iTunes:
  Back up the old iPhone to iTunes.
• Power on the new iPhone and start setup.
• Choose “Restore from Mac or PC” & connect iPhones.
• Open iTunes, locate the new iPhone, select “Restore Backup,” and choose the desired backup.
• Wait for restoration to complete.

Why Can’t I Transfer Data From iPhone to iPhone? Troubleshooting Steps

There can be a list of reasons why you might be unable to transfer data from iPhone to iPhone, such as:

• Insufficient proximity
• WiFi/Bluetooth connection issues
• Outdated software
• A low battery of both devices

Speaking of the factors that can lead to data transfer failures, here are the 3 troubleshooting steps for addressing these failures:

1. Check the Operating System Version of the iPhone

Note: If your iPhone runs on a beta version of iOS, you must remove that before proceeding with further updates. Remove the “iOS Beta Software Profile” in Settings > General > VPN & Device Management. Restart your iPhone to receive updates after removing the profile.

If you’re using the Quick Start method for transferring data, you must ensure that your iPhone has version 12.4 or later. Here’s how you can check your phone’s OS version and if there’s any software update available:

• Open Settings > General.
• Select the Software Update option.
• If you see any available updates, tap Install Now.
• If it needs downloading first, tap Download and Install.
• Enter the passcode, and then tap Install Now.

2. Force Restart of Both iPhones

Note: The process for restarting your iPhone can differ over iPhone models.

• Press and release the Volume Up button.
• Press and release the Volume low button right after releasing the Volume Up button.
• Locate the Side button (or the Sleep/Wake button on older models). Press and hold this button firmly.
• Hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears on your iPhone’s screen. Once the logo appears, release the button immediately.
• Your iPhone will now perform a forced restart and power on automatically.

3. Check Bluetooth and Cable Connection

This section for how to transfer data to a new iPhone is divided into 2 parts for Bluetooth and Cable Connection:

Bluetooth

• Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on both iPhones. Otherwise, the transfer will fail.

Cable Connection

The steps to ensure a robust connection between your device and the lightening cable involve:

• Connect the Lightning to USB 3 Camera Adapter to your old iPhone.
• Connect the Lightning to USB Cable to your new iPhone and its other end to the adapter. This establishes a wired connection for data transfer.

Wrapping Up

While backing up your new iPhone barely takes long, you can opt for the built-in data transfer options or third-party apps that aren’t directly associated with Apple. However, these apps don’t ensure data protection, and it’s best to use FastestVPN for elevated data security.

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