How to Restore Data from Backup When Switching iPhone Models

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By Jenefey Aaron

2025-06-27 / iOS Data Recovery

With the announcement of the new iPhone 16, attention turns to its features and design, prompting many to consider upgrading. When switching iPhones, it’s crucial to properly transfer data from your old device to the new one. Understanding the transfer process ensures easy restoration of photos, contacts, app data, and other vital information.

In this article, we’ll clearly explain how to restore data using a backup when switching iPhone models. We’ll also detail common causes and fixes for failed data restoration.

︎︎Part 1. How to Restore Data from Backup When Switching iPhone Models

To safely restore data during an iPhone model change, creating a backup is essential. Below, we’ll explain restoration methods using iCloud, iTunes, and Finder in sequence.

Method 1. Restore iPhone Data via iCloud Backup After Model Change

Restoring data from an iCloud backup is the simplest and most widely used method. It’s highly convenient, requiring only Wi-Fi—no computer needed.

  • Verify Backup

    First, create a recent iCloud backup on your old iPhone. Open the Settings app, select “[Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup,” then tap “Back Up Now” to proceed.

    iCloud Settings
  • Set Up New iPhone

    When you power on the new iPhone, the setup screen appears. On the “Set Up iPhone” screen, choose “Restore from iCloud Backup” and log in with your Apple ID.

    Set Up a New iPhone
  • Select Backup and Restore

    After logging in, pick the latest backup and tap “Restore.” This migrates data from iCloud to your new iPhone.

Method 2. Restore iPhone Backup Data from Finder or iTunes After Model Change

Beyond iCloud, you can use a computer to create and restore backups. Manage data via Finder (macOS Catalina or later) or iTunes (Windows or macOS Mojave and earlier).

  • Create Backup

    Connect your old iPhone to the computer and open Finder or iTunes. Select the iPhone icon, click “Back Up Now,” and enable “Encrypt iPhone Backup” for added security.

  • Connect New iPhone

    Link the new iPhone to the computer and launch Finder/iTunes. Choose “Restore Backup,” select the backup you created earlier, and proceed.

    Restore Data from iTunes

Method 3. Use UltData for iOS to Restore iPhone Data Without Backup

Even if you forgot to back up, data recovery tools like Tenorshare UltData iOS Data Recovery can help. Here’s how to restore data without a backup.

  • Install and launch UltData for iOS. Select the target device.

    Back Up & Restore Viber Data
  • Connect the device and scan for “Photos,” “Videos,” etc.

    Click
  • From the scan results, choose data to restore and execute.

    Click

Part 2. Why Can’t I Restore Data from Backup After Switching iPhone Models?

Failed iPhone data restoration can stem from several causes. Below, we outline key reasons and solutions.

Cause 1. Incorrect Apple ID or Password

When using iCloud backup, entering your Apple ID and password is mandatory. If this information is incorrect, you cannot access the backup data. Additionally, if two-factor authentication is enabled, you may need to enter a verification code to access the data.

Solution: If you forget your Apple ID or password, reset it via Apple's official website. Also, if two-factor authentication is enabled, verify the verification code on a trusted device.

Cause 2. Backup data is corrupted or not the latest backup

If iCloud or iTunes backup is corrupted, restoration may fail. Similarly, if the backup is outdated, the latest data will not be restored.

Solution: Regularly back up your data to ensure it stays up-to-date.

Cause 3. Unstable network environment

Restoring iCloud backup requires a stable Wi-Fi connection. An unstable network may interrupt the restoration process.

Solution: Perform the restoration in a location with stable Wi-Fi.

Cause 4. Insufficient storage on the new iPhone

If the new iPhone lacks storage space, the backup data cannot be fully restored.

Solution: Delete unnecessary apps or data to free up sufficient storage.

Cause 5. iTunes or Finder is not up-to-date

When restoring via a computer, outdated versions of iTunes or Finder may cause restoration failures.

Solution: Update iTunes or Finder to the latest version before attempting restoration.

Cause 6. App compatibility (outdated iOS version)

If the new iPhone runs an outdated iOS version, certain apps may not function properly.

Solution: Update iOS to the latest version to resolve app compatibility issues.

Part 3. Frequently Asked Questions About iPhone Upgrades

Upgrading your iPhone often raises questions about data backup and transfer methods. Here, we answer common queries and share tips for seamless data migration.

Question 1. What to do when upgrading your iPhone

When upgrading your iPhone, creating a backup is the top priority. Also, LINE chat history Apple ID Password Verify at least one of these to ensure secure data transfer.

  • iCloud backup: Enable iCloud backup in iPhone settings and back up regularly. Photos, videos, app settings, and more can be restored to the new iPhone.
  • Manual backup: Use iTunes or Finder on a computer for manual backups. This is especially efficient for large files like photos and videos.
  • SIM card preparation: Prepare the SIM card for use in the new iPhone.
  • Apple ID verification: Double-check your Apple ID and password beforehand to avoid forgetting them.
  • Data organization: Delete unnecessary apps or data to free up iPhone storage.
  • Password management: Use a password manager to easily handle passwords for various services.

Question 2. What’s the difference between Quick Start and iCloud restore?

Quick Start transfers data directly between nearby iPhones. It’s fast and ideal for quick setup.

On the other hand, iCloud restore This is the method to restore data from a backup saved in iCloud. Since it transfers data via the internet using Wi-Fi, the process may take some time.

Q3. Can "Do Not Transfer Apps and Data" be restored later?

Even if you select "Do Not Transfer Apps and Data," you can still restore your data later using iCloud or iTunes backups.

From the Settings app, select "General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings," then restore from the backup during the setup screen again.

Finally,

When switching iPhone models, properly backing up and restoring data is crucial to prevent data loss. Refer to the methods introduced in this article to seamlessly transfer your data to the new iPhone with peace of mind.

Even if you lose data without a backup, Tenorshare UltData can help you easily restore iPhone data. Utilize it to recover important information like photos, contacts, messages, and app data.

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