Back up your iPhone

Backing up your iPhone is essential to protect your valuable data.

Why is an iPhone backup important?

  • Restore all your data on a new device
  • Protected against loss or theft
  • Up and running again quickly after a failed update
  • Easy switch to a new iPhone

Back up to iCloud

Steps for an iCloud backup

  1. Open Settings
  2. Tap your name at the top
  3. Select iCloud
  4. Tap iCloud Backup
  5. Turn on the switch
  6. Tap Back Up Now

Managing iCloud storage

By default you get 5 GB for free. Upgrade via Settings > iCloud > Manage Account Storage.

What's in an iCloud backup?

  • App data
  • Device settings
  • iMessage, SMS and MMS
  • Photos and videos
  • Ringtones

Back up to your computer

With Finder (Mac)

  1. Connect your iPhone via USB
  2. Open Finder and select your iPhone
  3. Click Trust
  4. Select General
  5. Choose Back up all of the data on your iPhone to this Mac
  6. Check Encrypt local backup
  7. Click Back Up Now

With iTunes (Windows)

  1. Download and install iTunes
  2. Connect your iPhone via USB
  3. Open iTunes and click the iPhone icon
  4. Select Summary
  5. Choose This Computer
  6. Click Back Up Now

FAQ

How long does an iPhone backup take?

The first backup can take 30 minutes to several hours. Later backups are faster.

Are WhatsApp messages included?

Yes, your WhatsApp chat history is included in both backup methods.

What if my iCloud storage is full?

The automatic backup stops. Upgrade your plan or free up space.