Getting a new iPhone can be an exciting experience for anyone. The only time it does not feel thrilling anymore is when they have to face the reality of transferring the contents from an older device to a new one. And as Apple continues to roll out software updates, the process for transferring content also changes. Here is a guide on how you can transfer content using iOS 12.4 or later update:
Update to the Latest Software OS
Before you start, it is important that you make sure that the device you have is running on the latest iOS version. This ensures that whatever content you transfer from your older device will be compatible with the new one. At the same time, it minimizes any problems that you may encounter during the process.
With the latest iOS 12.4 update, Apple added an iPhone Migration tool. This will make things a lot easier for you. In order to update your device, open the Settings app > General > Software Update. This will lead you through a set of on-screen instructions to update and restart your device.
Once you’ve successfully updated to the latest version, you can choose back up and restore your device via three options: from iTunes or Finder, from iCloud, or Apple’s new iPhone Migration tool.
Using iTunes or Finder
The old method of transferring content between two iPhones is through iTunes or Finder. When you use this option, you have to make sure that you back up your older iPhone so that the back-up is up-to-date with your new iPhone.
If you decide to back up using iTunes, you will need to connect your older device to your Mac and launch iTunes. There will be a little phone icon on the toolbar so choose your iPhone. Under Backups, select This Computer. You’ll find your iPhone model in the Finder sidebar of macOS Catalina. The rest of the steps, however, are pretty similar.
It is a good idea to enable Encrypt local backup option. This will allow you to transfer all your account passwords, along with your Health data, to a new device. Just make sure that you pick out a password that you won’t forget. Remember to click Back up now.
Once the backup process is completed, you can connect the new device and switch it on. Then, click the option that says Restore Backup.
Using iCloud
If you’re tired of the process that requires you to connect your device to your Mac, there’s always the option of backing up using iCloud. All you have to do is launch Settings on your old iPhone. Sign in to your Apple ID account then tap on iCloud > iCloud Backup > Back up now. Make sure that your iCloud storage is sufficient enough to hold all your important data. You can simply back up your new device with iCloud using Quick Start.
While setting up your new device, you can log into iCloud with the same Apple ID you used in the previous device. Once you have selected Quick Start, you simply need to hold the two devices near each other. A little card will soon pop up asking you if you want to transfer files to the new device. A cloud of little dots will be displayed on your new phone. You will need to point your old device’s camera at this and enter the 6-digit passcode.
The rest of the setup process is a breeze. You’ll be prompted to choose whether you want to Transfer from iPhone or Download from iCloud. Make sure to choose the latter option. Your new iPhone will be ready to go in just a few minutes.
The good thing about choosing this option to set up your new device is that most of the settings from your old device can also be transferred. It will be a huge time saver on your end since you won’t have to go through each of the settings to make your new device look like the one you previously used.
You will have to re-download your apps, however. This is because a unique version of that app will be downloaded to your new device so that it gets optimized for it.
Using iPhone Migration Tool
As mentioned, Apple launched an iPhone migration tool with its iOS 12.4 version. With this tool in place, all of the data from your old device can easily be transferred to the new one over Wi-Fi or a direct cable connection. Some of the steps here are pretty much the same as transferring data via iCloud. You still need to point the old device’s camera at the cloud of dots, enter your passcode, and even set up Touch ID or Face ID. This time around, however, you will choose Transfer from iPhone instead of Download from iCloud.
The good thing about this migration tool is that you can transfer your Apple Watch data and settings easily, along with your Apple Pay and Siri settings. Remember to keep your devices near each other and that they both have sufficient battery to complete the data migration process. If you have a lot of data on your device, this can take over an hour.
You will also need to re-download your apps from the App Store to ensure that they are optimized for your new device.
Which Method to Choose?
It will largely depend on your own preference. But if you’re looking for one that won’t require you to use another computer, Apple’s iPhone Migration Tool is a great choice. All of the data from your old iPhone gets to be transferred to your new one. This includes your photos, videos, Keychain passwords, Health data, and many more. It may take a while but it will save you a lot of time in the end.
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