How to Back Up Your iPhone Before a Device Transfer

Step by step

1. 1 min

   Connect to a reliable power source and Wi-Fi

   Plug your iPhone into a power outlet to prevent the process from interrupting due to low battery. Ensure the device is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network, as backups require significant bandwidth.

   Note: Avoid using cellular data for the backup process.
2. 2 min

   Initiate an immediate iCloud backup

   Open Settings, tap your Apple ID name at the top, and select iCloud. Tap iCloud Backup, toggle on 'Back Up This iPhone', and select 'Back Up Now'.

   Note: Verify the 'Last Successful Backup' timestamp updates to the current time.
3. 1 min

   Connect your iPhone to a Mac or PC

   Use a verified USB cable to connect your iPhone to your computer. On macOS, open Finder; on Windows, open the Apple Devices app or iTunes.

   Note: Trust the computer on your iPhone screen if prompted.
4. 1 min

   Enable local backup encryption

   In your computer interface, locate the General tab. Select the 'Encrypt local backup' checkbox and set a secure password you will remember; this ensures health and keychain data are included in the backup.

   Note: Without this password, you cannot restore health and activity data.
5. 30 sec

   Execute the full backup to your computer

   Click the 'Back Up Now' button within the Finder or Apple Devices dashboard. Monitor the progress bar at the top of the window until the process completes.

   Note: Do not disconnect your device until the sync process finishes.
6. 1 min

   Confirm the backup file integrity

   In your computer settings, view the Manage Backups section. Confirm that the current date and time appear in the list of available backups to ensure the file is ready for your new device.