Transfer Photos to New iPhone Without iCloud

Hansel Arief

Transfer Photos to New iPhone Without iCloud

If you're not using iCloud or simply need to move files way above your iCloud storage limit, there are several ways to transfer photos to your new iPhone without relying on Apple’s cloud service. Here’s a quick guide to help you do it using built-in tools or third-party apps.

Use AirDrop for Instant Transfers

AirDrop is the easiest way to transfer photos wirelessly between two iPhones:

1. Enable Bluetooth and Wi-Fi on both devices.
2. On the old iPhone, open the Photos app and select the images you want to move. This is applicable for videos too.
3. Tap the Share icon and choose AirDrop.
4. Select your new iPhone when it appears.
5. Accept the transfer on the new device.

This method is great for small batches or selective transfers. However, it can be slow for large libraries.

Use Quick Start + iPhone Migration

If you're setting up a new iPhone from scratch:

1. Turn on your new iPhone and place it near your old one.
2. A prompt will appear on the old phone offering to set up the new device.
3. Choose Transfer from iPhone instead of downloading from iCloud.
4. Keep the devices close and plugged into power during the process.

This moves all data, including photos, directly from one phone to the other via a secure wireless connection.

Transfer Photos with a Lightning Cable and Finder (Mac) or iTunes (Windows)

You can also use a computer to move photos between iPhones without iCloud:

Step 1: Back Up Photos from Old iPhone

• Connect your old iPhone to your computer.
• Open the Photos app (Mac) or use File Explorer (Windows).
• Import all desired photos to your computer.

Step 2: Sync to New iPhone

• Connect your new iPhone to the same computer.
• Use Finder (Mac with macOS Catalina or later) or iTunes (Windows or older Macs).
• In Finder or iTunes, go to the Photos tab and choose to sync selected albums or the full library.

Note: This method requires you to manually organize and select photo folders for syncing.

Use Third-Party Apps Like AnyTrans or iMazing

Apps like AnyTrans or iMazing provide flexible photo transfer solutions without iCloud. These tools allow you to:

• Selectively transfer photos, videos, and albums.
• Manage other data types like messages and contacts.
• Avoid the limitations of iTunes syncing.

While many third-party tools offer free trials, full features often require a paid license.

Use Google Photos or Dropbox as an Alternative Cloud

If you don’t want to use iCloud but are open to other cloud options:

• Install Google Photos, Dropbox, or OneDrive on both devices.
• Upload your photos from the old iPhone.
• Log in on the new iPhone to access or re-download them.

This gives you cloud access without locking into Apple’s ecosystem.

Why Not iCloud?

There are a few common reasons users avoid iCloud for photo transfer:

• Limited free storage (5GB).
• Concerns about syncing or data overwrites.
• Prefer manual or offline control over data transfer.

Eskimo eSIM Helps You Transfer Smarter While Abroad

If you're transferring phones during travel or setting up a new device on the go, Eskimo eSIM makes it easy to stay connected without relying on unstable hotel Wi-Fi. With a global plan and free 500MB for new users, you can download apps, sync cloud backups, or use AirDrop across devices with no roaming stress. Get your free eSIM here.

FAQs

Can I use AirDrop to transfer all photos at once?

AirDrop lets you send multiple photos at once, but it may struggle with very large libraries. For massive transfers, use Quick Start or a computer.

Do I lose photo quality when transferring without iCloud?

No. AirDrop, Finder/iTunes sync, and Quick Start all preserve original quality.

How do I transfer photos if my old iPhone is broken?

If the old device still powers on, use a cable to back up photos to a computer. If it's completely dead, recovery may only be possible if you had another backup like iCloud or Google Photos.

Can I just move the SIM card to the new phone?

Yes, but moving the SIM doesn’t transfer photos or data, it just gives the new iPhone access to your phone number and mobile network.

Will WhatsApp photos also transfer?

Only if you're using Quick Start or restoring a full device backup. If you’re using AirDrop or Finder/iTunes sync, WhatsApp media may not move unless saved to the Camera Roll.

Hansel Arief

I've been the Digital Lead for Eskimo eSIM since 2021. My favorite thing to do while travelling is to find lessser-known hidden gems and try authentic, local cuisines.