Quick answer
You can transfer data from your old iPhone to a new one in three ways: direct device-to-device transfer (Quick Start), via iCloud backup, or via a computer with iTunes/Finder. The fastest and simplest is direct transfer, but both devices must be sufficiently charged and connected to Wi-Fi.
How to recognize the problem
- You bought a new iPhone and don't know how to transfer contacts, photos, and apps
- Your old iPhone is full and you can't make a new backup
- You're not sure if all data was transferred to the new device
- The new iPhone asks for Apple ID, but you don't know whether to enter it right away
- The transfer started but got stuck or interrupted
Most common causes
Not enough iCloud storage
If iCloud storage is full, a backup won't be made and transfer won't be possible. Check how much space you have in Settings > [your name] > iCloud.
Unstable Wi-Fi connection
Direct transfer and downloading from iCloud require a stable connection. A connection drop can lead to partial transfer or an error.
Insufficiently charged batteries
Both devices should be charged or connected to a charger during transfer. If the battery runs out, the transfer is interrupted.
Old iPhone not updated
If the old device has an older version of iOS, the direct transfer option may not work. Update the software on both devices before transferring.
No access to Apple ID or verification code
If two-factor authentication is enabled, you need access to a trusted device or phone number for verification. Also check that you're signed in with your Apple ID on the old iPhone and that you know the password.
Step-by-step fix
- 1
Prepare both devices
Make a backup of your old iPhone via iCloud or a computer. Make sure both devices are charged or connected to a charger and connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Update iOS on both devices to the latest version.
- 2
Turn on the new iPhone and start setup
Place the new iPhone next to the old one. Turn it on and follow the on-screen instructions. When the option to transfer from iPhone appears on the new iPhone, select it. A notification about the new device will appear on the old iPhone; tap it and use the old iPhone's camera to scan the code or animation shown on the new iPhone.
- 3
Choose transfer method
On the new iPhone, select "Transfer directly from iPhone" (recommended) or "Transfer from iCloud backup". Direct transfer is faster and doesn't require iCloud space. If you choose iCloud, sign in with your Apple ID and select the latest backup.
- 4
Wait for the transfer to complete
The transfer can take from a few minutes to several hours, depending on the amount of data. Don't interrupt the process and keep the devices close to each other. Progress will be shown on the screen.
- 5
Sign in and check data
When the transfer is complete, the new iPhone will ask you to sign in with your Apple ID and set up Face ID or Touch ID. Check that contacts, photos, messages, and apps have been transferred. Apps will download from the App Store automatically.
- 6
Update apps and check system settings
Open the App Store and update all apps. Check Settings > General > Software Update to see if iOS is up to date. Also check that notifications and background app refresh are set up correctly.
- 7
Restore backup from computer (optional)
If you want to restore a backup from a computer, it's best to do so during the initial setup of the new iPhone. Restoring a backup replaces data on the new device, so if the transfer has already been done, first make a backup of the new iPhone. Connect the new iPhone with a cable. On a Mac, open Finder (or iTunes on older macOS versions), and on Windows, iTunes. Select the device, click "Restore Backup", and choose the appropriate backup. Wait for the process to finish.
- 8
Erase old data from the old iPhone
When you're sure all data has been transferred and you have a backup, you can erase the old iPhone. This action permanently deletes all data from the device. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings. If you're selling or giving away the device, sign out of Apple ID and turn off Find My iPhone beforehand.
If transfer fails or gets stuck
If the transfer gets stuck, first check the Wi-Fi connection and restart both devices. Sometimes you need to update iOS on both devices. If it still fails, try via iCloud backup: on the old iPhone, go to Settings > [your name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup and turn on backup. Then on the new device, select "Transfer from iCloud backup". If iCloud is full, delete unnecessary data or switch to direct transfer. For advanced users: you can also use iTunes/Finder backup, but be sure to make a new backup before restoring.
How to prevent it
- Regularly back up your iPhone via iCloud or a computer
- Keep iOS updated on both devices
- Check that you have enough iCloud space before transferring
- Use a stable Wi-Fi network and charged batteries during transfer
When to call a professional
If you have a business iPhone with an MDM profile or if the transfer involves sensitive company data, contact IT support. Also, if the transfer repeatedly fails with errors you can't resolve, expert help can prevent data loss.
IT infrastructure maintenance · Servers, networks, backup, security and helpdeskFAQ
How long does data transfer from old to new iPhone take?
Direct transfer usually takes from a few dozen minutes to several hours, depending on the amount of data. Transfer via iCloud may take longer, depending on internet speed.
Can I transfer data if iCloud is full?
Yes, use direct device-to-device transfer (Quick Start) which doesn't require iCloud space. Alternatively, make a backup on a computer and restore it to the new iPhone.
What is transferred and what isn't?
Contacts, messages, photos, videos, settings, and app data are transferred. Apps are re-downloaded from the App Store, and app passwords may require signing in again.