Whether you’ve just purchased a second-hand iPhone from CompAsia Malaysia or upgraded from an older device, transferring your data is a key first step to make your new iPhone feel truly yours. This guide will walk you through the easiest, most efficient ways to transfer data from your old device—whether it's another iPhone or an Android phone.
What is Data Transfer?
Data transfer is the process of moving your content—like contacts, messages, photos, apps, and settings—from your old device to a new one. Apple has made this process relatively seamless, especially when moving from one iPhone to another. Even if you're switching from Android to iPhone, there are user-friendly tools to help you make the transition smoothly.
iPhone to iPhone Transfer
Option 1: Quick Start (Cross-Data Transfer)
Apple’s Quick Start feature enables fast and wireless iPhone-to-iPhone transfers.
Steps:
- Enable Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
- Turn on your new iPhone and place it near your old one.
- A Quick Start screen will appear on your old iPhone. Tap Continue.
- Authenticate using your Apple ID.
- Use your old iPhone’s camera to scan the animation on your new iPhone.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to set up Face ID or Touch ID.
- Choose Transfer from old iPhone to begin moving your data.
Pros:
- Wireless and simple
- Transfers almost everything, including app layouts and settings
- No need for extra tools
Option 2: Direct Transfer via USB
You can also transfer data directly using Lightning to USB 3 Camera Adapter and a Lightning to USB cable, or wirelessly via Wi-Fi/ Bluetooth during setup.
Steps (USB method):
- Connect both devices using the cable and adapter.
- During setup, select Transfer from iPhone when prompted.
- Keep devices connected and plugged into power.
Pros:
- Faster transfer speed for large data
- Ideal when Wi-Fi is unstable
Switching from Samsung/Android to iPhone
Option 1: Move to iOS App
Apple’s Move to iOS app helps you wirelessly migrate your content from Android.
Steps:
- Download Move to iOS from the Google Play Store.
- Start setting up your iPhone, and when you reach the Apps & Data screen, select Move Data from Android.
- Open the Move to iOS app on your Android phone.
- Enter the code displayed on the iPhone.
- Choose what you’d like to transfer (contacts, messages, photos, etc.)
- Wait for the transfer to complete and finish setting up your iPhone.
Pros:
- Completely wireless
- Free and built by Apple
Option 2: Cloud Services (Google Drive)
If you're already backing up your content to Google Drive, you can manually restore it on your iPhone.
Steps:
- Upload your photos, videos, and contacts to Google Drive on your Android device.
- Install Google Drive or Google Photos on your iPhone.
- Sign in and access your content directly from the app.
Pros:
- Good for partial transfers
- Works post-setup
Option 3: Third-Party Apps (e.g., MobileTrans)
Tools like MobileTrans, AnyTrans, or Dr.Fone support broader data transfer between platforms.
Steps (MobileTrans Example):
- Download the MobileTrans desktop app.
- Connect both devices to your computer.
- Choose the type of data to transfer and initiate.
Pros:
- Supports media, messages, app data
- Ideal for advanced users or custom needs
Additional Option: iCloud Backup
If you've been using iCloud on your old iPhone, you can restore all your data easily.
Steps:
- Ensure your old iPhone is backed up to iCloud (Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup > Back Up Now).
- On your new iPhone, during setup, choose Restore from iCloud Backup.
- Sign in with your Apple ID and choose the latest backup.
Pros:
- No need to have both phones
- Accessible from anywhere with internet
Final Checklist Before You Start:
- 🔋 Fully charge both devices
- 📶 Connect to stable Wi-Fi
- 🧾 Remember Apple ID and passwords
- 💾 Ensure enough storage space on the new iPhone
- 🔒 Disable screen lock/Find My features on Android
Data transfer doesn't have to be a hassle. Whether you're moving from another iPhone or switching from Android, Apple offers tools that make the process simple and smooth. At CompAsia Malaysia, we ensure your second-hand iPhone feels like new from the moment you power it on—starting with a seamless data transfer experience.
For more tips on getting started with your device, check out our other guides or contact our support team anytime.