How to Transfer On My iPhone Files to a New iPhone
Files stored locally in the iPhone Files app can move to a new iPhone through Quick Start, AirDrop, iCloud Drive, or a computer backup. Quick Start transfers compatible app data, while AirDrop handles selected documents. Files under On My iPhone may require manual transfer because local files are not automatically stored in iCloud.
Steps
- Check the file location. Open the Files app and review On My iPhone, iCloud Drive, and third-party storage folders. The storage location determines the transfer method.
- Use Quick Start for a complete iPhone setup. Place both iPhones nearby, connect both devices to power, and follow the Quick Start instructions. Select direct device transfer instead of downloading only from iCloud when prompted.
- Move local files with AirDrop. Open the Files app on the old iPhone, select documents, tap Share, choose AirDrop, and select the new iPhone. Accept the transfer on the new device.
- Use a computer for large folders. Connect the old iPhone to a Mac or Windows PC, copy accessible files from the Files app, then move the files to the new iPhone through Finder, Apple Devices, or cloud storage.
- Confirm the result. Open transferred files on the new iPhone and check file names, folder locations, and document integrity before erasing the old device.
Common Issues and Fixes
- “On My iPhone” files are missing: Local files were not synchronized with iCloud. Use AirDrop, Quick Start, or computer transfer.
- Quick Start finishes without certain files: The related app may not support complete data migration. Export files from the original app or use AirDrop.
- AirDrop cannot find the new iPhone: AirDrop receiving may be disabled. Set AirDrop to Contacts Only or Everyone for 10 Minutes, and keep both devices unlocked.
- Large transfers stop midway: Weak Wi-Fi, low battery, or insufficient storage can interrupt transfers. Connect both iPhones to power and transfer smaller groups.
- Files open incorrectly: The required app may be missing on the new iPhone. Install a compatible app or convert the file to a supported format.
Quick Tips
- iCloud Drive files appear after signing in with the same Apple Account and enabling iCloud Drive.
- Encrypted or app-protected files may not transfer as ordinary documents.
- Voice recordings, downloads, and PDFs can remain inside their original apps instead of the Files app.
- Keep the old iPhone available until every important folder has been checked.
Related Questions
Are “On My iPhone” files included in iCloud?
No. Files under On My iPhone are local unless manually copied to iCloud Drive or another cloud service.
Can AirDrop move folders between iPhones?
AirDrop can transfer selected files and some folders, but folder behavior depends on iOS version and file type. Individual files provide the most reliable result.
💡Protip:
A phone-transfer utility such as MobileTrans can help move supported iPhone data in one workflow, while app-specific local files may still require AirDrop or computer transfer.
