If you want to move from your old iPhone to your new iPhone 16 fast one of Apple's methods needs to be avoided!
(Image credit: Future / Adam Juniper)
The iPhone 16 is shipping today, and if you're lucky enough to get one and power it up, this tip could save you hours before you get to actually use it: Use 'Download from iCloud' – NOT 'Transfer from iPhone' if you can avoid it.
This is the screen that gives you the choice – the choice which will cost me two and a half more hours not trying my new phone (but at least getting the time to share this tip):
Whatever you do, don't choose 'Transfer from iPhone'! (Image credit: Future / Adam Juniper)
The iPhone transfer process is remarkably easy, especially if you've gone via the Apple Store which even opens up unlimited use of the Apple iCloud with no extra charge while you handle the process, so there is no worry about needing storage space or paying for fees.
I actually did my backup this morning before I had some appointments to handle, and on the way back I swung by the Apple Store (even had I not had other plans, Apple's computer didn't offer me a super early slot – when I got there queuing was minimal, orderly, and brief, but there was no clapping honor guard like the iPhone 1!)
When I got home I was more excited by the packaged sushi I'd bought, but eventually, I turned to the phone, and something in my mind said "Transfer from iPhone' seems more 'real' than the cloud. I remember finding a lot of apps needing security settings the last time I used the cloud approach, so I chose the latter.
(Actually, even worse, I first looked a 'Other Options' which is a whole other rabbit hole – leave that well alone unless you want to reset – there was no 'back' to this page!)
Anyway, I could live with 45-55 minutes (my old iPhone is 512GB, so that sounded pretty impressive to me on a wireless connection).
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I was right, it was too impressive.
As soon as it started it rocketed up to "About 2 hours" then "About 3 hours".
Not only that but I don't think it'll fix the need to reset any security settings by hand for more secure apps – even before the file transfer started I've already been asked for bank details for my Apple Pay cards.
So, my advice? Use the Download from iCloud for your best iPhone. I did last year and, sure, not every app is working straight away (they come on stream as they download) but, well, you get to play a lot sooner.
With over 20 years of expertise as a tech journalist, Adam brings a wealth of knowledge across a vast number of product categories, including timelapse cameras, home security cameras, NVR cameras, photography books, webcams, 3D printers and 3D scanners, borescopes, radar detectors… and, above all, drones.
Adam is our resident expert on all aspects of camera drones and drone photography, from buying guides on the best choices for aerial photographers of all ability levels to the latest rules and regulations on piloting drones.
