How to Transfer Passwords to a New iPhone

Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
iOS 18.4 - iPhone 15 Pro
You will need
Current iPhone, New iPhone, Apple ID, Wi-Fi connection

Step by step

  1. 1 min

    Verify iCloud Keychain status

    On your current iPhone, navigate to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > Passwords & Keychain. Ensure that 'Sync this iPhone' is toggled to the On position to confirm your credentials are uploaded to the cloud.

    Note: If this was already enabled, your data is already backed up.
  2. 1 min

    Initiate Quick Start

    Place your current iPhone next to your new device. Power on the new iPhone to trigger the Quick Start screen, then scan the animation on the new device with your current phone's camera.

    Note: Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on both devices.
  3. 30 sec

    Authorize the transfer

    Enter your current iPhone's passcode on the new device when prompted. This establishes a secure connection and grants permission to migrate your Keychain data.

  4. 1 min

    Select transfer method

    Choose 'Transfer from iPhone' during the setup sequence. This method ensures that your encrypted iCloud Keychain configuration, along with your other settings, is securely moved to the new device.

    Note: The transfer time depends on the volume of saved passwords.
  5. 1 min

    Validate password access

    Once the home screen appears on the new iPhone, open Settings > Passwords. Authenticate with Face ID to confirm that your entries have successfully synced from your previous device.