Getting a new iPhone is exciting—but transferring everything from your old one? That can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, Apple has made the process incredibly smooth. Whether you just got the latest model or are passing your old phone to a family member, knowing how to transfer data from iPhone to iPhone is essential.
In this complete, easy-to-follow guide, we’ll walk you through every method available to transfer your data—safely, securely, and quickly. From automatic Quick Start transfers to iCloud syncing and manual backups, you’ll learn the best way to move photos, contacts, messages, apps, settings, and more.
Why iPhone-to-iPhone Transfer Matters
Upgrading your iPhone should be a celebration, not a hassle. Here’s why knowing how to transfer correctly is so important:
- Preserve memories: Keep your photos, messages, and call history intact
- Save time: Avoid manually reinstalling and setting everything up again
- Maintain continuity: Pick up right where you left off on your new device
- Avoid data loss: Reduce risk of missing contacts, notes, or settings
What Can You Transfer?
Before jumping into the how-to, it’s good to know what will be moved during a transfer:
✅ Photos and Videos
✅ Messages and Call History
✅ Contacts and Calendars
✅ Notes and Reminders
✅ Apps and App Data
✅ Settings and System Preferences
✅ Safari bookmarks
✅ Wallet and Apple Pay settings (limited)
✅ Health data (if encrypted or using iCloud)
✅ Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections
Important: Apple ID, iCloud keychain, and Face ID/Touch ID settings may require reauthentication for security.
Method 1: Quick Start – The Fastest Way to Transfer iPhone to iPhone
Quick Start is Apple’s built-in method for setting up a new iPhone by using your old one. It uses Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to copy everything over—no computer needed.
Requirements:
- Both iPhones must be running iOS 12.4 or later
- Both devices must be nearby, powered on, and connected to Wi-Fi
Steps:
- Place your new iPhone next to the old one.
- On your old iPhone, a prompt appears: “Set up new iPhone” – Tap Continue.
- An animation will appear on the new iPhone. Scan it using the old iPhone’s camera.
- Enter your old iPhone’s passcode on the new device.
- Set up Face ID or Touch ID.
- Choose “Transfer from iPhone” when prompted.
- Keep both phones plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi.
The transfer may take 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on how much data you have.
Quick Start keeps your home screen layout, app organization, and system settings exactly the same. It’s the most seamless method available.
Method 2: Transfer Using iCloud Backup
If you’re restoring your new iPhone from a cloud backup, this is the method for you. Ideal when your old phone is not physically available but has been backed up.
Steps to Back Up the Old iPhone:
- Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup.
- Tap Back Up Now.
- Wait until the backup completes (stay on Wi-Fi and plugged in).
Steps to Restore on New iPhone:
- Turn on your new iPhone and begin the setup process.
- Connect to Wi-Fi and sign in with your Apple ID.
- When prompted, choose “Restore from iCloud Backup.”
- Select the most recent backup.
- Wait for data to restore—initial setup may finish in minutes, but full content can take hours to download.
Your photos, apps, messages, and settings will begin reappearing as they are downloaded in the background.
Method 3: Transfer Using iTunes or Finder (Computer Backup)
Prefer a local transfer using a computer? iTunes (on Windows or macOS Mojave and earlier) or Finder (macOS Catalina and later) allows encrypted backups, including health and password data.
Steps to Back Up Your Old iPhone:
- Connect your iPhone to your computer via USB.
- Open iTunes (or Finder on macOS Catalina and later).
- Select your device, then click Back Up Now.
- Check the box for “Encrypt Local Backup” and set a password if needed.
- Wait for the backup to finish.
Steps to Restore on New iPhone:
- Connect the new iPhone to the same computer.
- Open iTunes or Finder.
- Select “Restore from this backup” during setup.
- Choose the most recent backup file.
- Wait for the transfer to finish.
This method is ideal for large data transfers and doesn’t require Wi-Fi.
Method 4: Use AirDrop for Select File Transfers
If you only want to transfer a few files, like specific photos or documents, you can use AirDrop.
How to Use AirDrop:
- Turn on Bluetooth and Wi-Fi on both devices.
- On your old iPhone, open the file you want to transfer.
- Tap the Share icon > AirDrop > Select your new iPhone.
- Accept the transfer on your new device.
Great for quick, small-scale moves—but not ideal for a full device migration.
Method 5: Use iCloud Sync for Continuous Transfers
Rather than doing a one-time migration, you can use iCloud syncing to keep certain data (like photos, contacts, and notes) up to date on both iPhones.
How to Enable iCloud Sync:
- Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud.
- Toggle on Photos, Contacts, Calendars, Notes, etc.
- Repeat the same on the new iPhone using the same Apple ID.
Your data will appear gradually, depending on your internet speed and amount of content.
What About eSIM or SIM Card Transfers?
If your iPhone uses a physical SIM, simply move it to the new phone. If you use an eSIM, most carriers allow you to transfer it during the Quick Start process or through their app.
For eSIM users:
- Follow carrier prompts during Quick Start.
- Alternatively, contact your carrier to activate the eSIM manually.
Double-check cellular data and calling functionality after the transfer.
What Doesn’t Transfer Automatically?
While Apple tries to move everything, some items may not carry over unless backed up properly:
- Apple Pay cards – Must be re-added
- Bluetooth device pairings
- Wi-Fi passwords (unless backup was encrypted)
- App login sessions – You may need to sign in again
- Certain in-app downloads – May need to be redownloaded manually
Be sure to recheck any sensitive apps or data after setup is complete.
Troubleshooting Transfer Issues
Transfer taking too long?
- Ensure both iPhones are charging
- Stay connected to strong Wi-Fi
- Disable Low Power Mode
- Restart both phones and try again
New iPhone not recognizing the old one?
- Restart both devices
- Ensure Bluetooth is on
- Reset Network Settings: Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset Network Settings
iCloud backup not appearing?
- Confirm the correct Apple ID is used
- Wait a few minutes after backup is completed
- Reboot both devices
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I transfer from iPhone to iPhone without Wi-Fi?
Yes, using Quick Start with a direct cable or local computer backup avoids the need for Wi-Fi.
Q: Can I transfer only specific data?
Yes. Use AirDrop for individual files or iCloud Sync to select categories like Contacts or Photos.
Q: Will I lose anything during the transfer?
Not if you follow proper steps. Always back up your old iPhone before starting.
Q: Do I need to erase my old iPhone?
Only if you’re selling or giving it away. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings once you’re sure everything is safely transferred.
Final Thoughts
Transferring from one iPhone to another no longer requires cables, tech knowledge, or hours of frustration. Apple has created a user-friendly, reliable system for copying your data over—whether you choose Quick Start, iCloud, or iTunes.
The key is preparation: back up your old device, ensure both phones are updated and charged, and follow the method that works best for your setup.
So, the next time you ask, “How do I transfer from iPhone to iPhone?”, you’ll know it’s as easy as a few taps and a little patience—and you’ll be ready to enjoy your new iPhone with everything you love still in place.
Would you like a printable step-by-step checklist for this guide or a comparison chart of the methods?