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Choose where to make the backup
iPhone supports backups to iCloud or to a computer. Pick the route that fits the access you have; neither is universally better. An iCloud backup depends on your iCloud account, available storage and network connection. A computer backup requires a computer, a compatible cable and the appropriate Apple app.
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| Method | What you need | Where it is kept | Notable option |
|---|---|---|---|
| iCloud | An iCloud account, enough available storage and network access | iCloud | Back up through the iPhone’s iCloud settings |
| Mac or Windows computer | A computer, a compatible cable and Finder, Apple Devices or iTunes as applicable | The computer | Computer backups can be encrypted to include additional sensitive data |
Back up to iCloud
- On your iPhone, open Settings, tap your name, then tap iCloud.
- Open iCloud Backup and start a backup. Follow any prompts shown on your iPhone.
- Wait until the interface confirms the backup is complete before installing the beta. Apple’s iCloud backup and restore instructions describe the backup and restore options.
Back up to a computer
Connect the iPhone to the computer with a cable that works with both devices, then open the app for that computer. Apple’s steps differ by operating system and installed software:
- Mac with macOS Catalina 10.15 or later: use Finder.
- Mac with macOS Mojave or earlier: use iTunes.
- Windows: use Apple Devices or iTunes, depending on what is installed.
- Connect and unlock the iPhone. If asked, trust the computer and enter the device passcode.
- In Finder, Apple Devices or iTunes, select the iPhone.
- Choose the computer-backup option. If you want the additional data covered by encryption, select Encrypt local backup and set a password you can retain.
- Select Back Up Now and wait for the backup to finish. Apple’s iPhone guide covers the computer backup routes, while its Mac backup instructions explain the Finder and iTunes steps.
Decide whether to encrypt a computer backup
Encryption is optional, but it changes what a computer backup can include. Apple lists saved passwords, Wi-Fi settings, website history, Health data and call history among the data included in encrypted backups but not unencrypted ones. An encrypted backup does not include Face ID, Touch ID or the device passcode data.
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- High Speed Transfer and Data Encryption: This flash drive has high read/write speed, so you can enjoy the convenience of fast backup and save time. The flash drive uses stable APP software, you can choose to turn on Touch ID/Passcode to encrypt the whole flash drive, or you can choose to encrypt specific files to protect your data, so you can enjoy a more convenient and secure file storage experience
You need the encryption password to use that backup. Apple warns that if you forget it, the password cannot be recovered for that backup. Store it somewhere you can access later before relying on an encrypted copy. See Apple’s explanation of encrypted backups.
Confirm and keep the pre-beta backup
Do not begin the beta installation until the backup interface shows that the backup completed. For a Mac backup, Finder displays the date and time of the latest successful backup. Keep the pre-beta copy identifiable and available; do not assume a newer beta-era backup will be suitable if you later return to public iOS.
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If you need to return to public iOS
Apple’s documented route for removing beta software and installing the current public release requires erasing and restoring the iPhone. The restore should use an archived backup made on an earlier iOS version. A backup created while running beta software may not work with the earlier public release, so preserve the pre-beta backup rather than relying on a beta-era copy. Follow Apple’s current instructions to remove beta software; recovery-mode steps vary by iPhone model.
An iCloud restore happens during iPhone setup. If the iPhone is already set up, Apple says it must be erased before you can restore an iCloud backup. See Apple’s backup and restore instructions.
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- SANDISK Memory Zone App Required. Download the app(3) from the App Store and update firmware if prompted to optimize your file management experience or jump to the iOS Files app from the home screen.
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If a computer backup fails
Use the error message to narrow down the problem rather than assuming every failure has the same cause. Apple recommends checking that the computer and backup software are current, confirming that the cable connection works and the computer recognizes the iPhone, and freeing computer storage if an alert says space is insufficient. If the backup still fails, try another computer or use iCloud if appropriate. Apple’s computer backup troubleshooting guide covers additional error-specific steps.
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