Transfer iPhone Messages Using iCloud, Quick Start, and PC Software

Clara Prescott Published on November 07, 2025Transfer Data3-min reading

Shifting your digital life to a new device is exciting, but losing those cherished conversations can be a headache. If you are wondering how to transfer messages to the new iPhone without the hassle, you have landed in the right spot. Forget the typical tech advice; we will cut straight to the best and most unique methods. Whether you want to skip iCloud entirely, utilise the convenience of Quick Start, or troubleshoot a failed transfer, this guide provides robust and straightforward solutions to ensure that every text, photo, and iMessage makes the journey safely.

Part 1. Transfer Messages from iPhone to iPhone Without iCloud

1. imyPass iPhone Transfer

Your conversations do not have to get left behind when getting an iPhone upgrade. With imyPass iPhone Transfer, you can move all your SMS, iMessages, and messages from apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Kik from one iPhone to another. This does not have to be transferred over iCloud. This app works like a powerful, simple, and safe iTunes alternative, organising your data and protecting it without losing control over it.

Access the official imyPass website to download imyPass iPhone Transfer for Windows or Mac, and then follow the setup steps to install the app.

Open the app and connect your old and new iPhones with USB cables. When both phones are connected, the software will automatically see both your devices.

Select the Messages category from the main interface, and all SMS, iMessages, and app messages will be displayed, allowing you to choose which ones to move.

Select the messages you want, and then choose Export to Device. This will transfer all the chosen messages to your new iPhone in just a matter of seconds.

2. iTunes / Finder

To transmit messages using the preferred technique involves transferring messages in their entirety. If you choose this method, however, you must note that all your new iPhone data will be wiped, erasing any existing files on your iPhone. After this, you may choose this method for convenience, as some users still prefer services.

Part 2. Transfer Messages During Initial iPhone Setup

1. Using Quick Start (The Best Method)

Quick Start is a method that allows you to set up your new iPhone by bringing it close to your old iPhone. You may freely transfer data, including messages, apps, and settings, wirelessly.

2. Using an iCloud Backup

You may restore your iCloud backup during the new setup of the device if you had backed up your old iPhone to iCloud.

Part 3. How to Transfer Messages to a New iPhone AFTER Setup

1. Erase Current iPhone and Start Over

You can still restore from an iCloud or iTunes backup if you skipped message transfer during the setup, but you will need to erase your new iPhone to do so.

2. Enable iCloud Messages Sync

To enable ongoing syncing of your messages, activate Messages in iCloud. All conversations will be updated on your iPhone, and if something goes missing, you can also recover messages from iCloud to bring them back.

Part 4. Messages Did Not Transfer to New iPhone

There are times when using Apple transfer methods and messages are not just instantly available on your new iPhone. Not receiving messages can be due to syncing issues, software glitches, or storage problems. In some cases, you may even need to recover deleted messages if they did not carry over during the transfer. Here are some simple solutions people often forget to do:

Conclusion

Ensuring a successful transfer of messages to the new iPhone is essential for a smooth device upgrade. From the instant one-click power of imyPass iPhone Transfer to the native Quick Start of Apple, you now have multiple reliable methods. If issues arise, a quick check of your Apple ID and iCloud settings should solve most problems, leaving all your precious conversations intact and ready to continue on your new device.