How to Use Quick Start to Transfer Data to a New iPad

Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
iPadOS 18.4 - iPad Pro M4
You will need
Two iPads with Bluetooth enabled, stable Wi-Fi connection

Step by step

  1. 1 min

    Power on and place devices together

    Ensure both iPads are charged and have Bluetooth turned on. Place your current iPad next to your new, uninitialized iPad to trigger the proximity sensor.

    Note: If your new iPad is already set up, you must erase it via Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPad > Erase All Content and Settings before Quick Start appears.
  2. 30 sec

    Confirm the Apple ID

    A prompt will appear on your current iPad asking if you want to set up your new device with your Apple ID. Verify the correct Apple ID is displayed and tap Continue.

  3. 30 sec

    Scan the animation

    A blue animation will appear on the new iPad screen. Use your current iPad’s camera to center the animation within the viewfinder on your screen. If you cannot use the camera, tap Authenticate Manually and follow the prompts.

  4. 1 min

    Set up security features

    Enter your current device passcode on the new iPad when prompted. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up Face ID or Touch ID for the new hardware.

  5. 2 min

    Initiate the data transfer

    Select Transfer directly from iPad to begin the migration. Keep both devices close to each other and connected to power until the progress bar on the new device completes.

    Note: Transfer time depends on your network speed and the amount of data being moved.
  6. 30 sec

    Complete the installation

    Once the progress bar finishes, the new iPad will restart. Follow the remaining setup steps on the screen to finalize app restoration and iCloud sync settings.