How to Transfer Contacts from iPhone to iPhone

Getting a new iPhone is exciting, but moving your contacts is crucial. Losing phone numbers of family, friends, and colleagues can be stressful. Fortunately, there are several easy ways to transfer contacts from one iPhone to another.

Here, I will explain 6 simple methods to transfer your contacts safely. Whether you want to use iCloud, AirDrop, a third-party app, or a computer, we have you covered.

1. Transfer Contacts Using iCloud Sync from iPhone

The easiest way to move contacts is by using iCloud Sync. If both iPhones are connected to the same Apple ID, you can quickly sync your contacts.

Steps to Transfer Contacts via iCloud Sync:

• Connect both iPhones to Wi-Fi.
• Push the same login I’d on both devices that you own.
• Now head over Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud and do it on both the devices.
• Tap Show All under “Apps using iCloud.”
• Turn on Contacts Sync.

That’s it!

1. Pros: Easy and automatic.
2. Cons: Requires Wi-Fi and the same Apple ID.

3. Transfer Contacts Using iCloud Backup

If iCloud Sync doesn’t work, you can use iCloud Backup to move your contacts.

Steps to Transfer Contacts via iCloud Backup:

• Now, pick your old device, connect to Wi-Fi, and head over to Settings.
• Click on [Your Name], then iClou,d, and then iCloud Backup, and finally hit Back Up Now.
• Stay connected to Wi-Fi until the backup completes.
• Now it’s your new device’s turn. Turn the option on and repeat the setup steps.
• Once you are on the Apps & Data screen, choose Restore from the iCloud Backup option.
• Now log in with your Sign Apple ID and select the recently made backup.

When you have just completed the steps given above, your contacts will be available on the new Apple device.

1. Pros: Transfers all data, including contacts.
2. Cons: Requires enough iCloud storage.

3. Transfer Contacts Using AirDrop

If you only want to transfer a few contacts, AirDrop is a quick and wireless method.

Steps to Transfer Contacts via AirDrop:

• Enable AirDrop on both iPhones:
  • Open the Control Center by swiping down from the top-right.
  • Press and hold the Wi-Fi button, then tap AirDrop and select Everyone.
• Open the Contacts app on the old iPhone.
• Select the contact you want to share.
• Tap Share Contact > AirDrop and select the new iPhone.
• On the new iPhone, accept the contact.

1. Pros: Quick and wireless.
2. Cons: Can transfer only one contact at a time.

4. Transfer Contacts Using a Computer (Without iCloud)

If you prefer a manual method without using iCloud, you can transfer contacts via a PC or Mac.

Steps to Transfer Contacts via Computer:

• Download Contact Transfer on your Windows PC.
• Connect both iPhones to the computer using USB cables.
• Launch the app and choose iOS Device as both Source and Destination.
• Select the contacts you want to transfer and click Transfer.

1. Pros: No need for iCloud or Wi-Fi.
2. Cons: Requires a PC and USB cables.

5. Transfer Contacts Using NameDrop (iOS 17 and Later)

Apple’s NameDrop feature allows you to quickly share contact details just by placing two iPhones close together.

Steps to Transfer Contacts via NameDrop:

• Enable Bluetooth and AirDrop on both iPhones.
• Hold both iPhones near each other.
• A pop-up will appear on the screen.
• Choose Share Contact or Receive Only.

1. Pros: It is Fast and works without the internet.
2. Cons: It only transfers one contact at a time.

6. Transfer Contacts Using Email or Messages

You can also send contacts via email or messages in vCard format.

Steps to Transfer Contacts via Email or Messages:

• Open the Contacts app on your old iPhone.
• Select the contact you want to share.
• Tap Share Contact and choose Mail or Messages.
• Send it to your new iPhone.
• Open the email or message on your new iPhone and tap Save Contact.

1. Pros: Simple and works for any phone.
2. Cons: Can only send one contact at a time.

The Final Words

Transferring contacts from an iPhone to a new iPhone is super normal if you choose the right method. To do it in absolutely the correct way, use iCloud Sync or iCloud Backup. If you prefer wireless transfers, AirDrop and NameDrop are great choices. For a PC-based method, use Contact Transfer.