Sync iPhone with computer: overview of all methods. How to sync iPhone to iPhone - ways to transfer important information from one device to another

The iPhone works quite effectively on its own. It does an excellent job of creating and storing bookmarks, email addresses, appointments and contacts, is capable of downloading music files from the iTunes Store, and creating photos and videos using the built-in but quite powerful cameras.

Each owner can use their iPhone as a completely autonomous device. But you must agree that it is better and more useful to duplicate the contents of your iPhone onto your computer. This opportunity will open up new potential for the owner of this device and expand its scope of application.

How to sync iPhone and Windows PC

Before we talk about how to synchronize, let's get a little acquainted with the basic principles of the iTunes media player. It is quite natural that it should be installed on you. The developers of this virtual device included in it the functions of not only a player, so it can safely be called a media combine, since this multifunctional program plays music, video and at the same time is a storage for media files.

If we explain the process of transferring and replacing files in simple words, then this is copying the contents of the iTunes media player (music files, videos, images, programs, etc.) to your block device - iPhone.

The peculiarity of this copying is that when you delete any file from the iTunes media player, you delete it from the iPhone. Therefore, before the next synchronization is initiated, the user needs to decide which sections will be subject to this process, checking them off on the tabs.

Let's look at how an iPhone is synchronized with a computer using the example of organizing music transfer to an iPhone. Let's say we already have files on iTunes that we need to transfer, i.e. We have already organized our media library. Next you need to do the following:

  1. We connect the computer to the iPhone using a USB cable. In this case, the computer will recognize the device and launch a special iTunes program. Initially, the home tab will open (it contains all the useful information about our device)
  2. Click on the iPhone, which will be in the “Devices” directory (left column of the iTunes media player)
  3. In the window that opens (the “Browse” tab), you need to check the box in the “Process music and video manually” section
  4. There, check the “Sync only selected songs and videos” checkbox to avoid losing all your new data during general synchronization.
  5. Select the “Music” tab. Check the “Synchronize music” checkbox. In this case, you can choose your entire collection of music or partial, which is offered in three options shown in the figure.
  6. Click “Apply”. At the same time, if files have already been downloaded to the iPhone, they will be replaced with a new collection of music (media library).

It is not recommended to disconnect the USB cable between the iPhone and computer during synchronization; this will not only stop the synchronization process, but may also cause problems with the receiving and transmitting devices.

Synchronize your photos with your computer. Video

What to do if synchronization with your computer fails

You can resolve the problem yourself. Let's look at the most common cases:

  • Disconnect the iPhone from the computer and reboot it. After this, you need to connect again and repeat the synchronization process. If this does not help, then you should move on to the next point.
  • Check your installed version of iTunes; if it is not the latest, update it. To do this:
    1. Open this program by clicking on its icon
    2. In the top menu, go to “Help” and find the line “Updates”. In earlier versions of iTunes, "Updates" is located under the "Add-ons" menu item;
    3. Click on the “Updates” line and then follow the instructions to install the latest version of iTunes on your operating system.
  • If this point does not help, then your computer’s anti-virus protection may be blocking the synchronization process. Try disabling your anti-virus protection settings and repeat the data exchange process.

If all of the above options failed to help resolve this failure, then pay attention to the iTunes program itself, it may be frozen or some processes in it are broken. To do this, you need to force it to restart. If you have problems at this stage, simply restart your computer.

Recently, an increasing number of mobile device users have begun to use Apple technology. This means that the number of questions about the most important functions of these devices is also growing. Let's try to answer one of them - how to synchronize iPad with iPhone.

Using iTunes

Let's start with the fact that even within this method there are several options for how to do this. You can choose the best one for yourself.

To connect an iPhone with an iPad, you need to log in to one of the accounts, connect the tablet and phone one by one, and synchronize the necessary data. Remember that the synchronization action cannot be undone, so select only the data types that need it.

After the device is detected in iTunes (an icon will appear in the upper left corner), click on it - the menu we need will open. The bottom section shows how much memory a certain type of data takes up on your phone. The connected device will be displayed in the middle, and in the left block there will be a list of items for synchronization. By checking the boxes, select the data we need and click “Synchronize”.

Then we turn off the phone, connect the tablet and carry out the same actions. The advantage of this method is its simplicity.

If you quickly want to connect three devices (computer, iPhone and iPad) and be able to synchronize them with each other in two clicks, choose this method, especially since after the first connection you can configure this function via WI-FI. The main thing is that all three devices are on the same network. For wireless association, at the definition stage, you need to go to the “Browse” tab and set the checkbox next to “Synchronize with this iPhone/iPad via Wi-Fi.”

The only drawback of the method is that when all media libraries are combined under one account, any deleted or changed file on one of the devices is automatically deleted/changed on all the others. Not very convenient if you use them for different tasks.

The second way to combine iPhone and iPad is a little more complicated. To do this, you will already need two accounts - one per device. This type of connection can be called mediocre, since the phone and tablet are not synchronized directly, but through an intermediary - a PC. Having two accounts automatically separates all directories, so there is no fear of, for example, a song disappearing on your phone after deleting it on your tablet.

The third and most optimal option is to create several media libraries in one account and change them depending on the connected device. This way you get full synchronization of your calendar, contacts, events, notes, etc., and separate storage for data. The convenience is that all information is updated automatically, and the file system remains intact.

To do this, you need to create a media library for your phone. Then close iTunes and open the application again while holding down the Shift button on your keyboard. If you have an Apple computer, instead of “Shift” you need to press “Option”. A window for creating or selecting a media library will appear. We call it iPad.

It is best to use the latest version of iTunes and a high-quality shielded USB cable (you can tell by the slight crunch of the metal braid when twisted). Then you will not lose data or damage the devices. If you still have questions about the synchronization program, you can find answers in the article “How to sync your iPad with your computer via iTunes.”

Cloud synchronization

If you only need to update information in applications, some notes or a calendar with mail, there is no point in bothering yourself with long settings via a computer. Using the iCloud service, you can set all this up in a few steps. After this, all data will be updated when connected to the Internet.

The advantage compared to the computer method is that there is no need for lengthy settings, remembering anything, connecting, or doing anything at all to synchronize. The only drawback is that not all data types are supported.

The only parameter that needs some kind of connection instructions is photographs. To synchronize iPhone photos with iPad, you need to create a photo stream on the devices. You can do this by going to the photo gallery and clicking on the button to create a new photo stream. After giving it a name and enabling the “Open Website” function, click “Create”.

You can add photos for synchronization by clicking the “Edit” button in a ready-made photo stream and selecting the necessary elements from the list. After this, photo files will appear on all devices with one account that have cloud storage configured.

Sync apps

At the moment, most, if not all, applications on iOS have support for backup to the Apple-branded cloud. In short, you can start playing on a tablet, and then continue at the same level on your phone. You can connect your iPhone and iPad with one iCloud account, and the programs will synchronize themselves.

Since the free space on the cloud is not unlimited, it is possible and even necessary to disable applications that do not need it from synchronization. To do this, go to Storage & Backups in iCloud. The “Storage” tab contains all synchronized programs on your device, where you can disable them using the sliders.

Disable synchronization

If for some reason you want to disable syncing your iPhone with your iPad, connect your device via cable to the computer with the desired media library and click on the icon indicating the device. Then uncheck all data types in the left menu and click on the “Synchronize” button, then the “Apply” button to save the settings. After which you can delete the data file.

If you want to remove synchronization between iPhone and iPad and from cloud storage, then you need to change your account (provided you are using one) or remove all upload options to the cloud for all types of data.

Synchronizing devices of the same type

This is undoubtedly the easiest way to connect i-devices with each other. You need to create or sign in with the same Apple ID on all devices. Then enter your account information in Settings under iCloud. This way you can connect, for example, iPad to iPad or iPhone to iPhone. You can read more about synchronizing devices of the same type in the article “How to sync iPhone with iPad.”

How to sync iPhone or iPad with iTunes: Video

The ability to transfer data from one Apple device to another is one of the best features. Numerous users of Apple devices, despite some difficulties in performing everyday operations, remain loyal to the brand precisely thanks to synchronization. After all, it’s much easier to start using a new phone when mail, contacts, reminders, documents and other data can be moved in a few clicks.

Let's take a closer look at how to sync one iPhone to an iPhone using standard and alternative methods.

Please note

We will first analyze the methods created by the company’s developers, since with their help you can transfer the maximum amount of information. Next, we will present an alternative option called “Quick Start” using third-party storage.

How to sync iPhone to iPhone via iCloud?

Using iCloud, it will be the easiest to synchronize two devices, since there is no need to use additional equipment or programs. The advantages of the method include automatic execution of the operation and the constant availability of fresh versions of the data.

Will be useful

Among the negative aspects, there is a limitation on the amount of stored information (5 GB), the need to connect to high-speed Internet via a Wi-Fi network, and the inability to transfer music and video recordings.

The process of synchronizing two iPhones is divided into two stages: creating and restoring a backup. Let's look at each of them step by step.

Creating a Backup

To write a backup file, you must:

  • Open your mobile phone settings and go to the “iCloud” section.
  • If you have not previously logged into your device, you must enter your ID and password. If you don't have an account, you can create one by using the "Get an Apple ID for free" link located at the bottom of the screen.
  • Click on the “iCloud” item. From the list provided, select the items you want to copy. Here you can sync iPhone contacts, mail, calendar notes, reminders, Safari bookmarks, photos, documents and more. The more items are selected, the more free space the copy will take up. If the free 5 GB is not enough, there is always the option to purchase additional space.
  • Return to the previous screen and go to the “Storage and copies” section. Click “Create a copy”. In the same window, you can activate the “Copy to iCloud” option so that the smartphone independently creates copies if three conditions are met: the device is locked, charging and connected to a Wi-Fi network.
  • Wait for the operation to complete.

When the data is copied to the cloud storage, you can start downloading it on the second phone.

Data Recovery

To download saved information to a new phone you need to:


To sync your iPhone with an iPhone you're already using:

  • Reset settings and content by selecting the appropriate item in the settings menu. Attention! This will delete all data stored on the second instance of the phone, so it is recommended to back it up on that too.
  • Wait for the operation to complete and the device to reboot. Since all information has been reset, the first boot will launch the setup wizard. Next, you need to follow the steps described in the previous list.

This completes the process; the second smartphone will display exactly the same information as the first.

Do you make backup copies of data?

Allows you to synchronize information without an Internet connection. In addition, the backup volume is limited only by the computer's memory.

To complete the procedure, you must:


To synchronize a second smartphone, you will need to perform similar steps, only this time press the “Restore from copy” button. The system will offer a list of records from which you must select the most recent one.

Please note

Following these steps will allow you to synchronize your iPhone contacts, documents, music and other information.

In some cases, a full factory reset may be required before restoring. Then When you first launch the setup wizard, you should select “Restore from a copy of iTunes.” Next, connect the smartphone to the PC and repeat the steps.

How to sync iPhone to iPhone on iOS 11?

The new version of the operating system has a special feature called “Quick Start”. With its help, you can quickly transfer settings from an old device to a newly purchased one.

Important to know

The only condition for using “Quick Start” is the presence of iOS 11 on both smartphones.

To complete the procedure you must:


Please note

Mobile devices must be nearby until copying is complete. It is also recommended to keep Wi-Fi on and charge your smartphone so that multimedia files are automatically downloaded from iCloud.

How to sync iPhone to iPhone via cloud?

Alternative option Synchronization of two devices will require the use of third-party cloud storage. The method will allow you to continuously update specified files between two phones without using a backup recovery system.

Currently, the most popular services are:


Regardless of the cloud storage chosen, the process for setting up synchronization is almost identical. To start exchanging information between two iPhones you need to:

  • Visit the AppStore and install the appropriate application on both mobile devices.
  • Register in the cloud system on any of the phones.
  • Log in to your account on the second smartphone.
  • Select files or folders to sync. The information will be uploaded to the server and will be available for viewing on any device with the same account.

Changes made to files will be saved and updated, thus, when accessing them, the user will only have the current version of the data.

Important to know

The advantage is space saving, which is achieved by storing it on the server: the document is downloaded to the device only at the time it is launched. To use a file without an Internet connection, you should set the “Offline use” option.

In this instruction, we will look at a fairly simple operation - synchronizing iPhone and iPad with iTunes. And we will describe it from both sides, touching at the same time on such a not so trivial task as synchronizing a mobile device with iTunes via Wi-Fi.

Let's start with the simplest one - the process of synchronizing iPhone and iPad with iTunes using a cable. If you are no longer a novice user and are here to familiarize yourself with the possibility of wirelessly synchronizing an iPhone or iPad with iTunes, then feel free to skip to the section for beginners by clicking on this.

Step 1. Launch iTunes on your computer, if the program is not yet installed, then you can download the latest version of the Apple multimedia combine from this link

Step 2: Connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable

Step 3: Wait for iTunes to detect your device

By syncing your iPhone or iPad with iTunes, you get a huge number of possibilities. You can download podcasts, and others to your mobile device for later work with them. In addition, you can buy music, movies, applications and games directly from iTunes and immediately synchronize them with your gadget.

How to Sync iPhone or iPad with iTunes via Wi-Fi

Step 1: Connect your iPhone or iPad to your computer and launch iTunes

Step 2. Go to the mobile device tab and activate the “ Sync this iPhone/iPad over Wi-Fi» in the section Options

Step 3: Click " Synchronize»

Step 4: Disconnect your device from your computer

Step 5: Go to Menu Settings -> Basic -> Sync with iTunes over Wi-Fi

Step 6. Select the computer that appears there by clicking on its name

Step 7. Click the button Synchronize" and wait until the operation is completed - the progress will be shown both on your mobile device and in iTunes on your computer

In this simple way, you can synchronize your iPhone or iPad with your computer without resorting to those hated wires.

Some people own not just one Apple gadget, but several at once. Naturally, they often have questions regarding synchronization in order to use the same data on several devices at once. How to synchronize iPhone with iPhone and what is needed for this? We may use services and programs provided by Apple to transfer data between devices. In this review we will look at the functionality of the iCloud service and the iTunes program.

How to Sync iPhone to iPhone via iCloud

The iCloud service has powerful functionality for quickly transferring data between two devices. It is he who will help us synchronize iPhone with iPhone, wirelessly. In order to start synchronization, you need to go to iCloud settings and activate backup. It works under the following conditions:

  • iPhone is locked (in standby mode);
  • There is an active Internet connection via Wi-Fi;
  • The iPhone is connected to the charger.

That is, to start backing up data to iCloud, you need to connect your smartphone to a charger and to the Internet, and then leave it alone. After some time, the copying will finish and you can begin transferring data to the second iPhone. What to do next?

And then we turn on the second iPhone and begin setting it up. When you first turn it on and configure it, you need to select the “Restore from iCloud copy” option - that is, the previously created backup copy will be downloaded to the current device. Select the desired item, log in with your Apple ID and wait for the operation to complete. Depending on the volume of data and the speed of the network connection, restoring from a copy can take up to several tens of minutes.

iCloud backup allows you to save only the most important data - photos, contacts from your address book, accounts, documents and settings. Music and videos cannot be transferred during such a backup.

Now we know how to synchronize iPhone with iPhone. But you also need to know the following information - devices authorized under the same Apple ID can synchronize automatically using iCloud cloud storage. That is, the documents created will be almost immediately available on other devices. This is how we can synchronize an iPhone and iPad (or two iPhones).

The iCloud service copies not only documents, but also other data - contacts, settings, messages, application data and much more. In the iCloud settings on your device, you can select the data to sync - by moving the switches, you mark what should be synchronized automatically. 5 GB of free space is allocated for data storage. If necessary, this limit can be increased through paid subscriptions.

What other useful functions can we find in the synchronization settings of our iPhones and iPads? You should definitely like this feature, such as automatic downloading of purchased content to several devices at once, authorized under one Apple ID. To do this, you need to go to “Settings – Store” and check the appropriate boxes there. Applications, books and music are automatically downloaded.

How to sync iPhone to iPhone via iTunes

Many users are wondering how to synchronize two iPhones with each other? For this we can use the iTunes application. The operation is performed in just a few mouse clicks. This is done like this:

  • Connect the first iPhone to a computer running iTunes;
  • Go to the “Review” tab and create a backup copy;
  • Disconnect the first iPhone and connect the second;
  • Upload the backup to the second device and reboot.

Please note that when setting up a second iPhone, you need to select “Recover from iTunes copy”.

Now you know how to sync iPhone to iPhone using the iTunes media application. The advantage of this method is that along with contacts, settings and other data, multimedia files - music, podcasts and videos - can also be copied. When copying via iCloud, all this data will have to be copied manually using additional programs.

Other synchronization methods

How else can you synchronize iPhone with iPhone or iPhone with iPad? To do this, we can use popular cloud services such as Dropbox or Yandex.Disk. They allow you to access files from a wide variety of devices, even if they run on different platforms. In order to synchronize files, you must complete the following steps:

  • Install the client of the selected service on two devices;
  • Create an account on one device;
  • Enter the details of the created account on another device.

As soon as you add any files to the shared folder, they will be copied to the cloud storage. They can then be accessed from another device. For example, you can create a file on your iPhone to continue editing it on your computer - this is very convenient and practical. Cloud services will also allow you to transfer files from your computer to iOS devices without the help of iTunes.

The initial volume for storing user data in cloud services is not very large. For example, for Dropbox it is only 2 GB, and for the Yandex.Disk service it is 10 GB. You can expand your storage space with paid subscriptions. Moreover, in the Dropbox cloud service, you can use a referral program to expand free space - for each referral, the user receives an additional 500 MB.

Cloud services are good because they save free space on iOS devices - all data is stored on remote servers, and not in the device memory. They are downloaded only at the time of use.