Transfer to a New iPhone with Quick Start, iCloud, or a Computer

Prepare first

• Connect the old iPhone to Wi-Fi and turn on Bluetooth.
• Plug both phones into power and allow time when neither is needed.
• Have the Apple Account password and old iPhone passcode ready.
• Make a current backup. Carrier support determines how the SIM or eSIM transfers.
• Keep the new iPhone at the Hello screen. If it is already set up, it must be erased before Setup Assistant can run again.

Transfer directly with Quick Start

1. Turn on the new iPhone and place it beside the old one.
2. On the old phone, confirm the correct Apple Account in Set Up New iPhone, then tap Continue.
3. Scan the animation on the new phone, or choose manual authentication.
4. Enter the old iPhone passcode on the new phone and set up Face ID or Touch ID.
5. Activate cellular service when prompted, then choose Transfer from iPhone.
6. Keep both phones nearby, connected to power, and on Wi-Fi until both show completion.

Transfer time depends on data size, network conditions, and connection method. A pause in the estimate does not automatically mean failure.

Download from iCloud instead

At the data-transfer screen, choose Download from iCloud, sign in, and select the latest backup with the expected date and size. The new phone becomes usable after basic setup while apps and content continue downloading. Keep it on Wi-Fi and power until everything finishes.

Direct transfer is convenient when both phones are available and you can wait. iCloud is useful when the network is reliable and you want to reach the Home Screen sooner.

Restore a computer backup

Create a backup first in Finder on Mac or Apple Devices on Windows. During new-iPhone setup, choose restore from Mac or PC and connect it to that computer. An encrypted backup requires its original password. Use encryption if you need Health, Activity, saved passwords, and other protected data restored.

If Quick Start stalls

Check Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, power, and distance. Temporarily stop VPN or Personal Hotspot, then restart both phones if the prompt disappears. If the new phone has reached the Home Screen and contains no needed data, erase it through Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings and retry. Otherwise, use iCloud or a computer backup.

Before erasing the old phone, place a call and inspect photos, messages, contacts, notes, files, Health data, Apple Watch, and essential apps. Banking, messaging, and authenticator apps may require a separate sign-in or transfer.