Got a New iPhone? The 10-Minute Checklist Before You Hand Over the Old One
Quick answer: Back up the old iPhone to iCloud or a computer, use Quick Start to move everything to the new one, check your apps and two-factor codes, then sign out of iCloud, turn off Find My and erase the old phone. Protect the new one with a case and screen protector on day one.
Before you start
- Update both phones to the latest iOS if you can.
- Charge both phones above 50% and keep them on Wi-Fi.
- Make a fresh iCloud backup (Settings → your name → iCloud → iCloud Backup → Back Up Now).
Transfer with Quick Start
Turn on the new iPhone and place it next to the old one. Follow the Quick Start prompt, scan the animation, and choose to transfer directly from iPhone. Leave both phones close together and plugged in until it finishes — large photo libraries can take a while.
Check these after the transfer
- Open your messaging apps — some ask you to restore chat history from their own backup.
- Open your authenticator app and confirm your two-factor codes moved.
- Test banking apps; most require you to log in again.
- Pair your Apple Watch and AirPods with the new phone.
Wipe the old iPhone properly
- Unpair your Apple Watch first.
- Settings → your name → Sign Out (this turns off Find My).
- Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Erase All Content and Settings.
- Remove the SIM card.
A phone still linked to your Apple ID is locked for the next owner, so never skip the sign-out step.
Protect it from day one
New iPhone models often change camera layout and button positions, so cases from the old model rarely fit. Pick a case made for your exact model, and add a screen protector before the first scratch happens.
FAQ
Can I transfer without Wi-Fi?
Quick Start can work directly between the two phones, but Wi-Fi and power make it faster and safer.
Do I need to remove the eSIM?
During setup iOS can transfer your eSIM if your carrier supports it; otherwise contact your carrier.