How to Transfer Data from A Broken iPhone

Transferring data from a broken iPhone can be a frustrating and daunting task. Whether your iPhone has a cracked screen, is water damaged, or won’t turn on at all, you may still have important files, photos, and documents that you don’t want to lose. In this blog post, we will explore several methods that can help you transfer data from a broken iPhone to another device or computer. We understand the importance of your data and we want to provide you with the solutions you need to retrieve it, even if your iPhone is not functioning properly.

Video Tutorial:

Why You Need to Transfer Data from a Broken iPhone

There are several reasons why you may need to transfer data from a broken iPhone. Firstly, you may have important contacts, messages, or notes that you cannot afford to lose. Losing such data can be detrimental, especially if you rely on your iPhone for work or business purposes. Additionally, you may have precious photos or videos that hold sentimental value and you want to ensure they are preserved. Lastly, you may have important files or documents stored on your iPhone that you need for personal or professional reasons. Regardless of the reason, being able to transfer data from a broken iPhone is an essential skill to have.

Method 1: Using iTunes

Using iTunes is one of the most common methods to transfer data from a broken iPhone. Here is how you can do it:
1. Install the latest version of iTunes on your computer if you haven’t already.
2. Connect your broken iPhone to your computer using a USB cable.
3. Launch iTunes and wait for it to detect your device.
4. Once your device is detected, click on the device icon in the upper left corner of the iTunes window.
5. Choose "Summary" from the left sidebar.
6. Under the "Backups" section, click on "This computer" and then click on "Back Up Now".
7. Wait for the backup process to complete. This may take some time depending on the size of your data.
8. After the backup is finished, disconnect your broken iPhone and connect the new iPhone or another device you want to transfer the data to.
9. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up the new device and log in using your Apple ID.
10. During the setup process, when prompted, choose the option to restore from an iTunes backup.
11. Select the backup you just created from the list of available backups and proceed with the restore.

Pros:
– Allows you to transfer all types of data including contacts, messages, photos, videos, apps, and more.
– Provides a secure and reliable method for data transfer.
– Can be done even if your iPhone screen is completely broken.

Cons:
– Requires a computer with iTunes installed.
– Requires a USB cable to connect your iPhone to the computer.
– May take some time to complete the backup and restore process.

Method 2: Using iCloud

Using iCloud is another popular method to transfer data from a broken iPhone. Here is the step-by-step process:
1. Ensure that you have a stable internet connection on your new device or computer.
2. On your new device, go to "Settings" and sign in with your Apple ID.
3. Enable iCloud backup by going to "Settings" > "iCloud" > "Backup" and toggle the switch on.
4. Connect your broken iPhone to a power source and connect it to a Wi-Fi network.
5. On your broken iPhone, go to "Settings" > "iCloud".
6. Tap on "Backup" and then tap on "Back Up Now". Wait for the backup to complete.
7. Once the backup is finished, power on your new device or computer and complete the setup process.
8. During the setup process, when prompted, choose the option to restore from an iCloud backup.
9. Sign in with your Apple ID and choose the backup you just created from the list of available backups.
10. Wait for the restore process to complete. This may take some time depending on the size of your data.

Pros:
– Requires no physical connection between devices.
– Allows for wireless data transfer.
– Can be done even if your iPhone is not physically accessible.

Cons:
– Requires a stable internet connection.
– May take longer depending on the size of your data.
– Limited amount of free storage on iCloud.

Method 3: Using Third-Party Data Recovery Software

If the above methods don’t work for you, there are several third-party data recovery software options available that can help you transfer data from a broken iPhone. Here is how you can do it:
1. Download and install a reputable data recovery software such as Dr.Fone, iMobie PhoneRescue, or iMyFone D-Back.
2. Connect your broken iPhone to your computer using a USB cable.
3. Launch the data recovery software and follow the on-screen instructions to detect and scan your device.
4. Once the scanning process is complete, you will be presented with a list of recoverable data.
5. Select the data you want to transfer and choose the destination folder where you want to save the recovered data.
6. Click on the "Recover" button to start the data transfer process.
7. Wait for the software to transfer the data from your broken iPhone to your computer. This may take some time depending on the amount of data being transferred.

Pros:
– Can recover data from broken iPhones with various issues such as water damage, screen damage, software malfunction, and more.
– Provides a wide range of options for data recovery and transfer.
– Allows for selective data recovery, so you can choose specific files or types of data to transfer.

Cons:
– May require the purchase of a licensed version of the software for full data recovery functionality.
– Not all data recovery software options are reliable and effective.
– The success of data recovery depends on the extent of the damage to the iPhone.

Method 4: Via Third-Party Mobile Phone Data Transfer Tools

If you have access to a working iPhone or Android device, you can use third-party mobile phone data transfer tools to transfer data from your broken iPhone. Here is how you can do it:
1. Download and install a reputable mobile phone data transfer tool such as MobileTrans, Syncios Data Transfer, or AnyTrans.
2. Connect your working iPhone or Android device and your broken iPhone to your computer using USB cables.
3. Launch the mobile phone data transfer tool and wait for the devices to be detected.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to specify the source device (broken iPhone) and the target device (working iPhone or Android device).
5. Choose the types of data you want to transfer, such as contacts, messages, photos, videos, or apps.
6. Start the data transfer process and wait for it to complete. This may take some time depending on the amount of data being transferred.

Pros:
– Allows for data transfer between different types of smartphones.
– Provides a user-friendly interface and easy-to-follow instructions.
– Can transfer a wide range of data including contacts, messages, photos, videos, and more.

Cons:
– Requires a working iPhone or Android device as an intermediary.
– The success of data transfer depends on the compatibility and functionality of the mobile phone data transfer tool.
– May not be suitable for transferring large amounts of data.

Bonus Tip:

Here are three bonus tips to consider when transferring data from a broken iPhone:
1. Back up your data regularly: To avoid the inconvenience and stress of transferring data from a broken iPhone, make it a habit to regularly back up your device using iTunes or iCloud. This way, even if your iPhone gets damaged, you will have a recent backup to restore from.
2. Use a professional repair service: If your iPhone is physically damaged and you are unable to retrieve the data using the methods mentioned above, consider taking your device to a professional repair service. They may be able to fix the issue and retrieve your data.
3. Utilize cloud storage services: To ensure the safety and accessibility of your data, consider using cloud storage services such as Google Drive or Dropbox. By storing your data in the cloud, you can easily access it from any device and avoid the risk of data loss due to a broken iPhone.

5 FAQs

Q1: Can I transfer data from a broken iPhone without using a computer?

A: Yes, if you have access to a working iPhone or Android device, you can use third-party mobile phone data transfer tools or cloud storage services to transfer data without using a computer.

Q2: What if I don’t have an iCloud backup?

A: If you don’t have an iCloud backup, you can try using iTunes or third-party data recovery software to transfer data from your broken iPhone. If these methods don’t work, you may need to seek professional help or consult with a data recovery specialist.

Q3: Can I transfer data from a broken iPhone with a cracked screen?

A: Yes, you can still transfer data from a broken iPhone with a cracked screen using iTunes, iCloud, or third-party data recovery software. However, you may need to rely on touch gestures or use a USB keyboard if the touch screen is unresponsive.

Q4: How long does it take to transfer data from a broken iPhone?

A: The time it takes to transfer data from a broken iPhone depends on various factors such as the size of the data, the method used, the speed of your internet connection (if applicable), and the performance of your computer. It can range from a few minutes to several hours.

Q5: Can I transfer data from a broken iPhone to an Android device?

A: Yes, you can transfer data from a broken iPhone to an Android device using third-party mobile phone data transfer tools. These tools are designed to be compatible with both iOS and Android devices and can facilitate the transfer of data between different operating systems.

Final Thoughts

Transferring data from a broken iPhone may seem like a challenging task, but with the right methods and tools, it is definitely achievable. Whether you choose to use iTunes, iCloud, third-party data recovery software, or mobile phone data transfer tools, make sure to follow the steps carefully and consider the pros and cons of each method. Remember to back up your data regularly to avoid potential data loss in the future. By protecting and preserving your valuable data, you can ensure a seamless transition to a new device or computer, even if your iPhone is broken.