Why Backing Up Before a Switch Matters
When you set up a new iPhone and restore from a backup, your new device inherits almost everything from your old one — your apps, settings, photos, contacts, messages, and more. Without a backup, you start from scratch. A backup also protects you if something goes wrong during the transfer process.
- Photos and videos — your entire camera roll transfers to the new phone.
- Contacts and calendars — no need to re-enter anyone's information.
- App data — games, notes, and app settings carry over.
- Text messages and iMessage history — your conversations come with you.
- Health data — steps, sleep, and health records are preserved.
Tip: Do your backup the night before you get your new phone. That way it is fresh and complete when you need it.
Method 1: Back Up to iCloud (Recommended for Most People)
iCloud Backup is the easiest option. Your iPhone backs up automatically over Wi-Fi when it is plugged in and locked. Here is how to make sure it is turned on and how to trigger a manual backup right now.
- 1Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
- 2Tap your name at the very top of the screen (this opens your Apple ID settings).
- 3Tap iCloud.
- 4Scroll down and tap iCloud Backup.
- 5Make sure the toggle next to iCloud Backup is green (turned on).
- 6Tap Back Up Now to start an immediate backup.
- 7Stay connected to Wi-Fi and keep the screen on until the backup finishes. You will see the date and time of the last successful backup below the button.
Tip: iCloud gives you 5 GB of free storage. If your backup is larger than that, you will need to either purchase more iCloud storage (starting at $0.99/month for 50 GB) or use the computer method below.
How to Check Your iCloud Storage Before Backing Up
Before you start, it is worth checking whether you have enough iCloud space. A full iPhone backup can range from a few gigabytes to 20 GB or more depending on how many photos and apps you have.
- 1Go to Settings and tap your name.
- 2Tap iCloud.
- 3Tap Manage Account Storage (or Manage Storage on older iOS versions).
- 4You will see how much storage you are using and how much is available.
- 5If you are close to your limit, consider purchasing more storage or using the computer backup method.
Method 2: Back Up to a Computer (Mac or Windows PC)
Backing up to a computer creates a complete copy of your iPhone on your hard drive — no iCloud storage needed. This is a good option if you have a lot of photos or if you prefer to keep your data local.
- 1Connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable.
- 2On a Mac running macOS Catalina or later: open Finder, then click your iPhone's name in the left sidebar.
- 3On a Mac running macOS Mojave or earlier, or on a Windows PC: open iTunes.
- 4If prompted on your iPhone, tap Trust and enter your passcode.
- 5Click Back Up Now (in Finder or iTunes).
- 6Wait for the backup to complete. The progress bar at the top of the window shows you how far along it is.
- 7When finished, you will see the date and time of the latest backup.
Tip: For extra security, check the box that says "Encrypt local backup" before clicking Back Up Now. This encrypts your backup and also includes your saved passwords and Health data, which unencrypted backups do not include.
How to Verify Your Backup Completed Successfully
Before you hand in your old phone or start the new device setup, confirm the backup actually finished.
- iCloud: Go to Settings → your name → iCloud → iCloud Backup. The date and time shown under "Last Successful Backup" should be today.
- Mac (Finder): Click your iPhone in the sidebar. Under the General tab, look for "Latest Backup" — it should show today's date.
- iTunes (Windows or older Mac): Go to Edit → Preferences → Devices. Your iPhone should appear with today's date.
Warning: Do not start setting up your new iPhone until you have confirmed the backup completed. Once you erase or trade in your old phone, that data is gone.
What Is Not Included in an iCloud Backup
iCloud Backup covers most things, but a few items are handled separately or not included at all.
- iCloud Photos — if iCloud Photos is turned on, your photos are already stored in iCloud separately from the backup. They are not duplicated in the backup file.
- Apple Pay cards — these are removed for security and must be re-added on your new phone.
- Face ID or Touch ID data — biometric data does not transfer and must be set up fresh.
- Purchased apps and media — these are re-downloaded from the App Store and iTunes automatically.
- Two-factor authentication codes from authenticator apps — export these separately before switching phones.
Restoring Your Backup on the New iPhone
When you turn on your new iPhone for the first time, the setup assistant will ask how you want to set it up. Choose "Restore from iCloud Backup" or "Restore from Mac or PC" and follow the prompts. Your new phone will download your apps and data and look just like your old one within a few minutes to an hour depending on your internet speed.