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How to Transfer Contacts from iPhone to iPhone

Josh Brown
Josh Brown
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Have you ever lost your iPhone? It might not be a pleasure. After buying a new iPhone, you’ll need to transfer all data and contacts. How do you do that using one tool? AltTunes is your friend. So, let’s uncover it!

Tap ‘Trust this computer’ on your device if your iPhone isn’t synced with your machine.  

With AltTunes, you can not only transfer contacts but also learn how can you backup iPhone without iCloud. So, let’s uncover it!

How to transfer contacts with iCloud Sync

Using iCloud® Sync to transfer contacts to your new iPhone is simple. Just follow these steps:

1. Connect both phones to Wi-Fi.

2. Make sure you're signed in to the same Apple ID on both devices.

3. On both iPhones, open Settings > [your name] > iCloud, then tap the switch next to Contacts.

4. Wait for a message about merging contacts, then tap Merge.

Transfer Contacts to New iPhone Merge Button

AltTunes also helps you with tasks like transferring photos from iPhone to PC.

How to transfer contacts with iCloud Backup

If iCloud Sync didn't work, or you don't have your old iPhone, you can transfer contacts from your iCloud account to your new iPhone. If you don't already have a backup in iCloud, you'll need to create one—here's how:

1. Connect your iPhone to your Wi-Fi network, then open Settings and tap [your name].

2. Tap iCloud > iCloud Backup > Back Up Now.

Stay connected to your Wi-Fi network until the process completes. To make sure the backup finished, tap Settings > [your name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup. The time of the last successful backup should appear.

Additionally, you can restore iPhone from backup with AltTunes to make sure everything is in place.

To transfer your contacts to your new phone from a backup:

1. Make sure your old iPhone is connected to Wi-Fi.

2. Open Settings, then tap [your name] > iCloud.

3. Make sure the switch next to Contacts is turned on.

4. Select iCloud Backup > Back Up Now.

5. Turn on your new iPhone and follow the setup steps.

6. Once you reach the Apps & Data screen, tap Restore from iCloud backup.

7. Sign in with your Apple ID®, and select the backup you just made on your old iPhone.

8. Wait for your data to transfer from your old iPhone to your new one.

9. Finish the rest of the setup steps.

For an alternative, you can use AltTunes to back up your iPhone and restore data seamlessly.

How to transfer contacts with AirDrop

AirDrop is amazingly convenient when it comes to transferring photos, videos – even contacts. There is just 1 caveat. You can only share contacts one by one. Transferring multiple contacts is a no-go. 

1. Swipe up on your device and enable AirDrop. Repeat for the other iPhone. 

2. Make sure Wi-Fi Connection is turned on for each device. 

3. Head over to the Contacts app. Tap on the contact in question and hit ‘Share’. 

4. Choose ‘AirDrop’ and select your new iPhone from the list that appears. 

5. You will see notification pop up on your target iPhone. Click ‘Accept’. 

Transfer Contacts to New iPhone Airdrop

That’s it. The new contact will show up in the Contacts app. But how do you AirDrop all your contacts? The answer is simple – you don’t. For this, it’s better to use iMazing or iCloud. 

How to transfer contacts with a SIM Card

Yes and no :) It’s a little more complicated. Let’s break down how this works in iPhones here. 

Let’s say you are switching from an Android smartphone to the iPhone. Probably, your existing card holds your contacts. In this case, simply insert your SIM into the iPhone & follow the exact instructions below:

1. Go to the Settings app > Contacts.

2. Select ‘Import SIM contacts’

3. Wait till the procedure is complete. Head to the Contacts app. Check if all contacts are available. 

AltTunes can also help you export contacts effortlessly with the guide on how to export contacts from iPhone.

Transfer Contacts to New iPhone Import Sim

iPhone lets you import existing contacts from SIM, but this doesn’t work in reverse. It doesn’t write any info inside your SIM. So if you are switching from an iPhone to a new iPhone, replacing SIM will not work. 

So why does Apple refuse to store data in SIM? There’s a simple reasoning behind this. Using iCloud & iTunes backups is more convenient. It also contradicts Apple’s philosophy. Removable objects like SIM cards or SD cards aren’t reliable in Apple’s eyes. They can be easily lost or damaged. So why risk it?

Explore more with AltTunes, such as how to transfer music from iPhone to PC or even how to manage your device backups.

FAQ

How can I fix the “An iPhone has been detected but it could not be identified” error?

To fix this error, check your USB cable and ports and ensure you are using an original Apple cable. Also, update your iPhone and Windows operating system and reinstall iTunes. These basic troubleshooting steps often resolve the issue.

Why does my iPhone not connect to iTunes?

This issue might occur due to outdated software, corrupted drivers, or problems with your USB connection. Ensure that your iPhone, iTunes, and Windows are all updated. Additionally, check that Apple Mobile Device Service is running on your computer to avoid connectivity issues.

What should I do if iTunes doesn’t recognize my iPhone?

First, check the USB cable and port connection. If everything looks fine, reinstall iTunes, update your iPhone and computer, and ensure that Apple services like “Apple Mobile Device Service” are running. These steps usually help iTunes recognize your iPhone.

Can outdated Windows or iPhone software cause iTunes connection errors?

Yes, outdated software can cause compatibility issues with iTunes. Make sure your Windows and iPhone software are up to date. You can update Windows by going to “Settings” > “Update & Security” and your iPhone by visiting “Settings” > “General” > “Software Update.”

How do I reinstall the Apple Mobile Device USB Driver?

To reinstall the Apple Mobile Device USB Driver, connect your iPhone to your computer, open Device Manager, find “Apple Mobile Device USB Driver,” right-click it, and select “Uninstall device.” Disconnect and reconnect your iPhone to reinstall the driver automatically.

Josh Brown
Josh Brown
CEO, Softorino
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