Quick Start can move an old iPhone setup to a new iPhone with apps, photos, contacts, settings, and account data. If the old phone is unavailable, an iCloud or computer backup can restore much of the same information.
These steps apply to iPhones running iOS 15 or later.
Does This Affect You?
Use this if you just got a new iPhone and want it to feel like the old one without rebuilding everything manually.
Use Quick Start with Both iPhones Nearby
- Turn on the new iPhone and place it near the old unlocked iPhone.
- When Quick Start appears on the old iPhone, tap Continue.
- Scan the animation on the new iPhone using the old iPhone camera.
- Enter the old iPhone passcode on the new iPhone if asked.
- Set up Face ID or Touch ID.
- Choose Transfer from iPhone and select the data transfer option offered.
- Keep both phones plugged in, near each other, and on Wi-Fi until transfer completes.
Restore from iCloud Backup
- On the old iPhone, make a fresh backup under Settings > your name > iCloud > iCloud Backup.
- On the new iPhone, continue setup to Apps & Data.
- Tap Restore from iCloud Backup.
- Sign in and choose the newest backup from the correct device.
- Keep the new iPhone on Wi-Fi and power while apps and photos continue downloading.
Restore from a Computer Backup
- Back up the old iPhone to Finder on Mac or iTunes/Apple Devices on Windows.
- Connect the new iPhone to the same computer.
- During setup, choose restore from Mac or PC, or use Restore Backup in Finder/iTunes.
- Select the newest backup and let it finish.
Transfer Notes
Some Apps Need Sign-In
Banking, streaming, work, and two-factor apps may log you out for security after transfer. That is normal.
SIM and eSIM
Quick Start may offer to transfer an eSIM automatically. With a physical SIM, move the SIM card to the new iPhone if your carrier still uses one.
Avoid Interruptions
Weak Wi-Fi, low battery, and moving the phones apart are common reasons transfers slow down or pause.
Check Before Erasing the Old Phone
Open Photos, Messages, Contacts, and a few key apps on the new phone before wiping or selling the old one.
Sources
- Apple Support: Transfer data to a new iPhone
- Apple Support: Set up a new iPhone with Quick Start
- Apple Support: Back up iPhone