iPhone Cannot Complete Data Transfer – How to Fix It

by

If your iPhone cannot complete data transfer, it may be due to connection issues, software glitches, or insufficient storage. This guide provides step-by-step solutions to fix the problem and successfully transfer your data.

Check Basic Requirements

Ensure Both iPhones Are Compatible
  • Both devices must run iOS 12.4 or later for Quick Start.
  • iPhone 5s and older models do not support device-to-device migration.

Check Available Storage
  • Ensure the new iPhone has enough storage to accommodate the transferred data.
  • Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage to check.

Fix Connection Issues

Use a Stable Wi-Fi Network
  • Both iPhones must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
  • Restart your Wi-Fi router if the connection is unstable.

Keep iPhones Close Together
  • If transferring wirelessly, place both iPhones next to each other and ensure Bluetooth is enabled.

Try a Wired Connection
  • Use a Lightning to USB 3 Camera Adapter and a Lightning to USB cable to transfer data via cable.
  • Ensure both devices are charging to prevent interruptions.

Restart Both Devices
  • Restart both iPhones before attempting the transfer again.
  • Press and hold the power button (or power + volume button on newer models) and slide to turn off.
  • Turn them back on and retry the transfer.

Fix Software-Related Issues

Update iOS on Both Devices
  • Go to Settings > General > Software Update and install any available updates.

Disable Low Power Mode
  • Go to Settings > Battery and turn off Low Power Mode to prevent interruptions.

Reset Network Settings
  • Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings.
  • Reconnect to Wi-Fi and retry the transfer.

Use Alternative Transfer Methods

Transfer with iCloud Backup
  1. Backup old iPhone: Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup > Back Up Now.
  2. Set up the new iPhone and choose Restore from iCloud Backup.

Transfer with iTunes/Finder
  1. Connect the old iPhone to a computer and back up using iTunes (Windows) or Finder (Mac).
  2. Restore the backup to the new iPhone during setup.

Erase the New iPhone and Restart the Transfer

If the transfer keeps failing, reset the new iPhone and start over:

  • Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings.
  • Set up the iPhone again and retry the transfer.

Related Posts: