Apple made file transfer and backup easier on iOS devices with iCloud. However, there are instances when users cannot rely on this feature to transfer their files. The iCloud memory can either be full, or there is a glitch in synching files in iCloud. Whatever the reason might be that prevents you from transferring your files using iCloud, there are alternative methods you can try to complete the task.
Here are the five ways to transfer files from iPhone to iPhone without iCloud.
Using Quick Transfer
Quick Transfer is your best alternative way to transfer files from iPhone to iPhone without iCloud. The feature has been available on iOS devices since iOS 12.4 rolled out. Aside from files, you can also get your messages and call logs transferred via Quick Transfer. Just make sure that both iPhones run iOS 12.4 or later versions. The iPhone to receive the data must also have a higher system version.
To use Quick Transfer, just get the two iPhones near each other, as per iMobie. Upon seeing the Quick Start screen, a pop-up window will appear on one of the iPhones. Tap on "Continue" to activate the other iPhone.
Choose the files to be transferred. Keep on tapping on "Continue" to proceed with the process. Note that you will be asked for the Apple ID and password in between the steps. Lastly, you will be instructed to connect the devices to their chargers as the transfer will take several minutes to complete. Once the transfer is done, you will see the "Transfer Completed" window. Wait for the receiving iPhone to reboot for a few minutes.
Using EaseUS MobiMover
Files transfer via MobiMover is possible between two iPhones running iOS 8 or later. You can transfer files, contacts and messages without syncing. However, you will need to connect the two iPhones to a computer with MobiMover installed, according to EaseUS. Upon launching Mobimover in your computer, click "Phone to Phone." Check the transfer direction then click "Next." Select the categories of the data you want to transfer, then click "Transfer." Just wait for the transfer to complete.
Using iTunes Backup
Using iTunes backup to transfer files from iPhone to iPhone is similar to using iCloud. You just have to back up all the files that you want to transfer by connecting the iPhone to a computer with iTunes installed. After backing up, connect the receiving iPhone and initiate the file transfer by clicking "Restore from Mac or PC." Wait for the transfer to finish.
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Using Finder
Backing up and transferring files using Finder is applicable if you are a Mac user. The steps are similar to the previous methods. Just plug in the iPhone into your Mac, then launch Finder. Note that your Mac must be running macOS Catalina or higher.
Click on your iPhone icon in the Locations section, then click "Trust" when asked to trust the connected Mac. Click "Back Up Now" to initiate the file backup. Afterwards, connect the receiving iPhone to your Mac, set up the device, and then select "Restore from Mac or PC." The file transfer will commence.
Using AirDrop
The most convenient and efficient way to transfer files from iPhone to iPhone without iCloud is by using AirDrop. This is particularly true for new iPhone models that support the AirDrop feature.
To perform the file transfer, make sure that the two iPhones are within the Bluetooth and Wi-Fi- range. Enable both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, and make sure to turn off Personal Hotspot. Afterwards, turn on AirDrop and select either "Contacts Only" or "Everyone," whichever is applicable. Select the files you want to transfer, then click "Share." Wait for the transfer to complete.
