When you get a new iPhone, transferring data from your old iPhone is essential to keep your contacts, photos, apps, and settings intact. While iCloud is one of the common ways to transfer data, you may want to know how to transfer iPhone to iPhone without iCloud. Maybe you’re low on iCloud storage or prefer a faster and more direct way. Thankfully, several simple and effective methods exist for transferring iPhone data without iCloud. This article covers everything you need to know, step by step, to transfer an iPhone to an iPhone without iCloud.
Why Transfer iPhone to iPhone Without iCloud?
Transferring an iPhone to an iPhone without iCloud can be beneficial for several reasons. iCloud often has storage limits, making it tricky for those with large amounts of data. Additionally, iCloud requires a stable Wi-Fi connection and can be slow. For those who prefer a faster, more direct transfer, other options are available that don’t need iCloud or additional storage purchases.
Here are four practical and easy ways to transfer an iPhone to an iPhone without iCloud, each with clear steps and details to help you switch seamlessly.
1. Use Quick Start to Transfer iPhone to iPhone Without iCloud
Quick Start is one of the easiest ways to transfer iPhone to iPhone without iCloud. This built-in feature works well if both iPhones have iOS 12.4 or later, allowing you to quickly set up the new iPhone with your old iPhone’s data.
Steps to Transfer iPhone to iPhone Using Quick Start:
- Place both iPhones near each other and turn on the new iPhone.
- Your old iPhone will display a Quick Start screen to set up the new device.
- Follow the on-screen instructions, and an animation will appear on the new iPhone screen.
- Utilize your old iPhone’s camera to check the activity on the new iPhone.
- Enter your old iPhone’s passcode on the new iPhone to initiate the transfer.
- Follow the setup prompts on the new iPhone, which will guide you through transferring data and settings.
Quick Start will transfer all your essential data, including photos, contacts, apps, and settings. This method is fast, easy, and does not require an iCloud backup, making it a popular choice to transfer an iPhone to an iPhone without iCloud.
2. Transfer iPhone to iPhone Without iCloud Using iTunes or Finder
Using iTunes or Finder on a computer is another reliable method for transferring data from one iPhone to another without needing iCloud. This method creates a backup on your computer, which you restore to the new iPhone. It’s a simple and effective option for users who need to transfer data.
Steps to Transfer iPhone to iPhone Using iTunes or Finder:
- Interface your old iPhone to your PC utilizing a USB link.
- Open iTunes (on Windows or macOS Mojave and earlier) or Finder (on macOS Catalina and later) and select your iPhone from the list of devices.
- Click on Back Up Now to fully back up your old iPhone’s data on your computer.
- Once the backup completes, disconnect your old iPhone and connect your new iPhone.
- In iTunes or Finder, select Restore from this backup and choose the most recent backup you created.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup on your new iPhone.
This method is excellent if you have a computer and prefer to transfer your iPhone to an iPhone without iCloud. It ensures a complete transfer and allows you to keep a backup on your computer for added security.
4. Move iPhone to iPhone Without iCloud Utilizing AirDrop
For those who only want to transfer select files, AirDrop is a convenient tool that allows you to transfer photos, contacts, and other files without iCloud. AirDrop works wirelessly between two nearby iPhones, making it easy to transfer from iPhone to iPhone without iCloud, one file type at a time.
Steps to Transfer Data Using AirDrop:
- Ensure both iPhones have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth turned on.
- On your old iPhone, select the files you want to transfer (like photos or contacts).
- Tap the Share icon, choose AirDrop, and select the new iPhone as the recipient.
- Accept the file transfer on your new iPhone to receive the data.
While AirDrop does not transfer everything like apps or settings, it’s perfect if you only need to move specific files. AirDrop is fast, simple, and a great way to transfer iPhone to iPhone without iCloud if you want partial data transfer.
4. Transfer iPhone to iPhone Without iCloud Using Third-Party Apps
If you prefer a more customizable way to transfer data or need advanced options, several third-party apps can help you transfer your iPhone to your iPhone without iCloud. Popular options include AnyTrans and iMazing, which allow you to create backups and choose specific data to transfer and manage files between devices.
Steps to Transfer Data Using Third-Party Apps:
- Download the app on your computer and follow the installation instructions.
- Interface both your old and new iPhones to the PC.
- Use the app’s options to back up the old iPhone and transfer selected data to the new iPhone.
- Adhere to the guidelines inside the application to finish the exchange.
While some of these apps have free versions, they may require a paid license for full access. However, they offer greater control over data management and transfer, making them a good choice if you want a more flexible way to transfer iPhone to iPhone without iCloud.
Essential Tips When Transferring Data Between iPhones
To ensure a smooth data transfer experience, keep these tips in mind when you transfer iPhone to iPhone without iCloud:
- Fully Charge Both iPhones: Ensure both iPhones are charged before starting the transfer, as some methods can take a while.
- Use the Same Apple ID: Ensure both iPhones are logged into the same Apple ID to make it easier to transfer data and settings.
- Check for Software Updates: Both iPhones should be updated to the latest iOS version to ensure compatibility and access to the latest features.
- Double-Check Wi-Fi Stability: If using Quick Start or AirDrop, a stable Wi-Fi connection will make the process faster and more reliable.
What to Do After You Transfer iPhone to iPhone Without iCloud
After successfully transferring your data, follow these final steps to complete your setup:
- Test Your Apps and Data: Open various apps and check photos, contacts, and settings to ensure everything transferred as expected.
- Log into Apple Services: Sign in to services like iMessage, FaceTime, and Apple Pay to keep everything synced.
- Erase Data from the Old iPhone: Once you confirm the transfer, you can erase your old iPhone by going to Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings. This step will ensure the old iPhone is ready for resale or recycling.
Which Transfer Method Should You Choose?
Each method to transfer iPhone to iPhone without iCloud has unique benefits. Here is a quick manual for help you with picking:
- Quick Start: Ideal if you want a swift and complete transfer of all data and settings with minimal hassle.
- iTunes/Finder: Best for users who prefer using a computer and want a full data backup.
- AirDrop: Perfect for those needing only specific files transferred rather than a full device setup.
- Third-Party Apps: Great for users who need advanced features or prefer more control over the transfer process.
Conclusion
Transferring data to a new iPhone can be smooth and straightforward without relying on iCloud. With options like Quick Start, iTunes or Finder, AirDrop, and third-party apps, you can transfer your iPhone to an iPhone without iCloud based on your needs and preferences. Following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily set up your new iPhone, ensuring that all your essential data is transferred and ready to use.
Now, you’re ready to enjoy your new iPhone with all your data at your fingertips! Remember, whether you want a complete data transfer or just specific files, there’s a method to help you transfer iPhone to iPhone without iCloud easily and efficiently.