Getting a new phone is exciting, but transferring contacts from iPhone to iPhone can be tricky if you don’t use the right method. Whether you're upgrading, switching devices, or moving from iPhone and Android, you need a fast, reliable way to transfer your contacts.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to transfer contacts from iPhone to iPhone using multiple methods, including iCloud, iTunes, AirDrop, and the best transfer tool—AltTunes. You'll learn how to transfer contacts in bulk, move contacts from iPhone without iCloud or iTunes, and ensure that your contacts are backed up safely.

The Best Ways to Transfer Contacts to a New iPhone

1. Using AltTunes (The Fastest Way)

If you need to transfer contacts from iPhone to iPhone without iCloud or iTunes, AltTunes is the best option. It allows you to copy contacts in bulk from one iPhone to another quickly and safely without internet dependency. AltTunes also helps you with tasks like transferring photos from iPhone to PC.

The app is available for Windows & macOS.

How to Transfer iPhone Contacts Using AltTunes

1. Download & Install AltTunes on your computer (Mac or Windows).
2. Connect Both iPhones to the computer using USB cables.
3. Launch AltTunes and select "Contacts Transfer."
4. Choose Source iPhone (the old one) and select the contacts you want to move.
5. Click Transfer and let AltTunes do the work.

Why Choose AltTunes?

✅ Transfer contacts directly without needing iCloud or an Apple ID.
✅ Works instantly via USB (no internet needed).
✅ 100% secure with no data loss.
✅ You can transfer contacts, photos, music, and more.
✅ You can easily back up your iPhone and restore iPhone from backup.
✅ AltTunes makes it easy to export contacts from iPhone to your computer.

2. Transfer Contacts Using iCloud Sync

If you want to transfer contacts using iCloud, Apple offers an easy way to sync contacts.

Steps to Sync Contacts Using iCloud

1. Connect Both iPhones to Wi-Fi.

2. On the Old iPhone:

• Open Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud.
• Toggle Contacts ON.
• Tap Merge when prompted.

3. On the New iPhone:

• Sign in with the same Apple ID.
• Go to Settings > iCloud > Saved to iCloud > and enable Contacts Sync.
• Wait a few minutes for the contacts to appear. Head to the Contacts app. Check if all contacts are available.

⏳ Requires stable Wi-Fi and enough space in iCloud
🔴 Backed up to iCloud but may not transfer all contacts instantly

3. Transfer Contacts from One iPhone to Another via iCloud Backup

If you want to transfer all contacts and other data, restoring from an iCloud backup might be the best way.

Steps to Restore Your New iPhone Using iCloud Backup

1. Backup Your Old iPhone:

• Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup.
• Tap Back Up Now and wait for the backup to complete.

2. Set Up Your New iPhone:

• Turn it on and follow the setup instructions.
• When prompted, choose Restore from iCloud Backup.
• Sign in with your Apple ID and select the latest backup.

📶 Requires stable Wi-Fi
🔴 Restores everything, not just contacts

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

4. Move Contacts to Your New iPhone via AirDrop (One-by-One)

AirDrop is useful if you only need to transfer a few contacts.

How to Transfer Contacts via AirDrop

1.Enable AirDrop on both iPhones:

• Swipe down to open Control Center.
• Turn on Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
• Set AirDrop to Everyone or Contacts Only.

2. Send Contacts One by One:

• Open the Contacts app.
• Select a contact and tap Share Contact.
• Choose AirDrop and select the new iPhone.
• Accept the transfer on the new device.

⚡ Fast for a few contacts
🔴 Can’t transfer all contacts at once

5. Transfer Contacts to a New iPhone Using a SIM Card

If your contacts are stored on a SIM card, you can import them to your new iPhone easily.

Steps to Transfer Contacts Using a SIM Card

1. Insert the Old SIM Card into the New iPhone.
2. Go to Settings > Contacts.
3. Tap Import SIM Contacts.
4. Wait for the process to complete.

🔴 Only works if contacts were saved to the SIM card

6. Transfer Contacts from iPhone to iPhone Using iTunes

You can also transfer contacts using iTunes by syncing them manually.

How to Transfer iPhone Contacts Using iTunes

1. Connect the Old iPhone to Your Computer and open iTunes.
2. Click on the device icon and select Info.
3. Check Sync Contacts with iTunes and click Apply.
4. Disconnect the old iPhone and connect the new one.
5. Select Restore Contacts from iTunes Backup.

✅ Allows you to transfer all contacts
🔴 Requires a computer and iTunes installed

Final Thoughts: The Best Way to Transfer Contacts

While Apple provides several built-in options, AltTunes offers the easiest, fastest, and most reliable way to transfer contacts from one iPhone to another. Whether you’re switching to a new iPhone or simply backing up your contact list, AltTunes makes the process seamless.

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

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