How to transfer contacts from an old iPhone to a new one.

Lari

If you’ve just upgraded to a new iPhone, one of the first things on your mind is probably transferring your contacts. After all, your contacts hold essential connections to family, friends, work colleagues, and more. Losing them is not an option! So, how do you ensure a smooth and hassle-free transfer? In this article, I’ll walk you through different methods to move your contacts from your old iPhone to a new one with ease.

Best Ways to Transfer Contacts Between iPhones

When it comes to transferring contacts, Apple provides several convenient options. Each method varies depending on whether you have access to iCloud, a computer, or even an external storage device. Let’s dive into the best approaches.

Iphone
Iphone

1. Using iCloud: The Easiest and Most Seamless Method

If you have an iCloud account, transferring contacts is incredibly simple. Here’s how:

  1. On your old iPhone, go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud.
  2. Toggle on Contacts to ensure they sync with iCloud.
  3. On your new iPhone, log in with the same Apple ID.
  4. Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud and enable Contacts.
  5. Wait a few minutes, and your contacts will appear on your new device.

Using iCloud is the most recommended method because it’s automatic and requires minimal effort. However, if your iCloud storage is full, you might need an alternative method.

2. Using Quick Start: Ideal When Setting Up a New iPhone

Apple’s Quick Start feature makes transferring everything—including contacts—seamless. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Turn on your new iPhone and place it near your old one.
  2. A prompt will appear on your old iPhone asking if you want to set up the new device.
  3. Scan the animation on your new iPhone using the old one.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to transfer data, including contacts.
  5. Wait for the transfer to complete, and your contacts will be ready to use!

3. Using iTunes or Finder: A Good Backup Option

If you prefer using a computer, iTunes (on Windows or older macOS versions) or Finder (on macOS Catalina and later) allows contact transfer. Follow these steps:

  1. Connect your old iPhone to your computer.
  2. Open iTunes (Windows/macOS Mojave or earlier) or Finder (macOS Catalina and later).
  3. Click on your iPhone and select Back Up Now.
  4. Once the backup is complete, disconnect the old iPhone and connect your new one.
  5. Restore from the backup during the setup process.

This method is useful if you prefer a full backup of your device, but it takes longer compared to iCloud syncing.

4. Using AirDrop: For a Quick Contact Transfer

If you only need to transfer a few contacts, AirDrop is a fast and wireless option:

  1. Open the Contacts app on your old iPhone.
  2. Select the contact you want to share.
  3. Tap Share Contact > AirDrop and choose your new iPhone.
  4. Accept the contact on the new device, and it will be saved.

This method is ideal if you’re only moving a handful of contacts rather than your entire list.

5. Using a Third-Party App: A Flexible Alternative

Several apps, such as My Contacts Backup and CopyTrans Contacts, allow you to export and transfer contacts easily. These apps can be helpful if you don’t use iCloud or iTunes regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Will I lose my contacts if I don’t use iCloud?

No, you won’t lose them. You can use iTunes, AirDrop, or third-party apps to transfer contacts without relying on iCloud.

2. What if my contacts don’t sync to my new iPhone?

Make sure both devices are connected to Wi-Fi, and iCloud contacts are enabled. Sometimes, signing out and back into iCloud helps refresh the sync.

3. Can I transfer contacts from a broken iPhone?

Yes! If your old iPhone is still functional enough to back up to iCloud or a computer, you can restore contacts to your new device. If the phone is completely dead, you might need professional data recovery services.

4. What if my iCloud storage is full?

You can either buy more storage or use an alternative method like iTunes or AirDrop to transfer contacts without relying on iCloud.

A Personal Story: Why Contact Backup Matters

A few years ago, I made the mistake of not backing up my contacts before switching to a new iPhone. I assumed everything would sync automatically, but to my horror, I lost my entire contact list. It was frustrating, especially since I had years of saved numbers for work, family, and friends.

I spent hours manually retrieving numbers from emails and social media. That experience taught me the importance of proper contact transfer. Since then, I always double-check my backups before upgrading devices. If you’re reading this, take it from me—don’t skip this crucial step!