6 Ways to Fix iPhone 16e/SE 4 Stuck on Preparing to Transfer

Part 1: Why Is iPhone SE 4 Stuck on Preparing to Transfer?

When your iPhone SE 4 is stuck on "Preparing to Transfer," it’s often due to several common causes. Here are the main reasons:

• Poor or Mismatched Wi-Fi Connection: Quick Start requires both iPhones to be connected to the same Wi-Fi network. A weak or inconsistent signal can lead to delays or failure in the transfer process.
• Software Glitches on Either Device: Bugs or system errors in iOS can interfere with the transfer. These glitches may prevent your iPhone from moving past the "Preparing to Transfer" stage, often resolved by a simple restart.
• Outdated iOS Versions: If your new iPhone is running the latest iOS version and your old device is outdated, the transfer may stall. Ensure both devices are updated to the latest software versions for smooth data transfer.
• Distance Between Devices: If the two iPhones are too far apart, they may not recognize each other for Quick Start. Keep both devices within a few feet of each other during the transfer.
• Insufficient Storage on New iPhone: If your new iPhone doesn’t have enough storage, the transfer will fail. Make sure there’s enough free space on your new iPhone before starting the transfer.

Note:

Repeated attempts to fix this problem without proper tools can sometimes worsen the situation. If the issue is unresolved, it's best to pause the transfer process and use reliable recovery tools to protect your data.

Part 2: How to Fix iPhone SE 4 Stuck on Preparing to Transfer?

If your iPhone SE 4 is stuck on "Preparing to Transfer," it’s time to troubleshoot. Fortunately, there are easy fixes to resolve the issue and continue transferring your data. Let’s go through the solutions one by one.

Way 1: Restart Your iPhone SE 4

If your iPhone SE 4 is stuck on "Preparing to Transfer," a simple restart might solve the issue. Restarting can clear software glitches that prevent the transfer process from completing. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Press and hold the power button and the volume down button simultaneously until the slider appears on the screen.

Step 2: Slide to power off and wait for about 30 seconds.

Step 3: Press and hold the power button again to turn the iPhone back on.

Restarting your iPhone SE 4 can often resolve temporary software issues, allowing the transfer to proceed without further delays.

Way 2: Ensure Devices Are Close Together

If your iPhone SE 4 is stuck on "Preparing to Transfer," distance between your devices could be the cause. The Quick Start feature relies on both devices being in close proximity for a successful data transfer. Follow these steps to fix the issue:

Step 1: Place both your old and new iPhones close to each other, ideally within a few feet.

Step 2: Ensure both devices are powered on and not in sleep mode.

Step 3: Wait for the devices to recognize each other and initiate the transfer.

Keeping the devices close together ensures a stable connection, reducing the chances of transfer errors caused by weak signals or failed recognition.

Way 3: Join the Same WiFi Network

If your iPhone SE 4 is stuck on "Preparing to Transfer," one of the most common causes is a WiFi issue. Both devices need to be connected to the same WiFi network for the transfer to occur. Here’s how to ensure proper connection:

Step 1: On both devices, open the WiFi settings and confirm they are connected to the same network.

Step 2: If one device is not connected, select the correct network and enter the password.

Step 3: Wait for the devices to reconnect and try the transfer again.

Using the same WiFi network ensures the devices can communicate effectively, allowing the transfer process to proceed without interruptions.

Way 4: Update iOS to the Latest Version

Outdated iOS versions can cause issues during the data transfer process. If your iPhone SE 4 is stuck on "Preparing to Transfer," it’s important to ensure both devices are running the latest iOS version. Here's how to check and update your iOS:

Step 1: Go to Settings on your iPhone and tap General.

Step 2: Select Software Update.

Step 3: If an update is available, tap Download and Install.

Updating both devices to the latest iOS ensures compatibility and fixes bugs that may be causing the transfer to stall.

Way 5: Clear Unnecessary Data and Files

If your iPhone SE 4 is stuck on "Preparing to Transfer," insufficient storage could be a factor. Clearing unnecessary data and files will free up space and ensure the transfer process runs smoothly. Here's how to do it:

Step 1: Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage.

Step 2: Review the list of apps and data. Tap on items you no longer need and select Delete.

Step 3: Empty your Photos, Messages, or any other data that you don’t need for the transfer.

Freeing up space on your iPhone helps ensure there's enough room for the data transfer, improving the chances of a successful transfer.

Way 6: Hard Reset Your iPhone

If your iPhone SE 4 remains stuck on "Preparing to Transfer," performing a hard reset can help fix deeper software issues. A hard reset forces your device to reboot, potentially resolving the problem. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Quickly press and release the Volume Up button.

Step 2: Quickly press and release the Volume Down button.

Step 3: Press and hold the Power button until the Apple logo appears, then release it.

A hard reset can fix frozen screens or software glitches that might be blocking the transfer. After restarting, try the transfer again to see if it resolves the issue.

Part 3: How to Transfer Data from Old iPhone to New iPhone SE 4?

Upgrading to a new iPhone SE 4? Don’t stress about transferring your data; Tenorshare iCareFone is here to make the process easy and quick. This all-in-one tool is designed to help you seamlessly move photos, videos, contacts, messages, music, and apps to your new device without complications.

Forget about dealing with iTunes or iCloud limitations—iCareFone simplifies it all with a few clicks.

Key features of Tenorshare iCareFone for transferring data to your iPhone SE 4:

• iPhone SE 4 Compatibility: iCareFone works seamlessly with the latest iPhone SE 4, making it the perfect solution for quick data transfer.
• One-Click Data Transfer: Transfer a wide range of data types—including photos, contacts, videos, messages, and apps—easily with just one click.
• No Data Loss: Rest assured that your data won’t be lost during the transfer process. iCareFone ensures a secure transfer with no risk of overwriting your important files.
• Fast and Easy: Whether it's a large batch of photos or app data, iCareFone ensures a smooth and speedy transfer without any technical hassles.
• Versatile Data Support: iCareFone transfers not just the basics, but also media like music and videos, and even app data like WhatsApp chats, with full support for syncing between devices.
• Backup and Restore: Before transferring, you can back up your old device using iCareFone, ensuring a safe recovery of your data on the new iPhone SE 4.
• No Need for iTunes/iCloud: Unlike traditional methods that rely on iTunes or iCloud, iCareFone offers a straightforward, flexible transfer process without those limitations.

Here's how you can use Tenorshare iCareFone to Transfer Data from Old iPhone to New iPhone SE 4:

• Connect Your Devices

Download and install Tenorshare iCareFone on your PC or Mac. Connect your old iPhone and the new iPhone SE 4 to the computer via USB. If prompted, tap "Trust This Computer" and enter your passcode to ensure proper device detection.


• Select the Data to Transfer

From the main interface of iCareFone, choose the data type you want to transfer (Photos, Music, Contacts, etc.). Then, click Export or Transfer depending on the data you wish to move to your new iPhone SE 4.


• Start the Transfer

Click Transfer to Device and wait for the process to complete. Once the transfer is done, your data will be successfully moved to your new iPhone SE 4.

Part 4: Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How long should an iPhone SE 4 stay while preparing to transfer?

Ans: Typically, the "Preparing to Transfer" stage lasts a few minutes. If it’s taking too long, try restarting your iPhone or using a different cable for a faster connection.

Q2: How to reset iPhone SE 4 to prepare for transfer?

Ans: To reset your iPhone SE 4, go to Settings > General > Reset, then select "Erase All Content and Settings." This will help clear any issues before starting the transfer.

Q3: Is it normal for iPhone transfer to take a long time?

Ans: Yes, the transfer can take time, depending on the amount of data. Large files or a slow connection might cause delays, so be patient during the process.

Final Words

If your iPhone SE 4 is stuck on "Preparing to Transfer," try the solutions provided in this guide to fix the issue. Whether it’s updating your iOS, ensuring a stable connection, or using tools like Tenorshare iCareFone, these methods can help resolve the problem efficiently. For a seamless and stress-free transfer, we highly recommend using Tenorshare iCareFone, as it simplifies the process with just a few clicks.

Downloads:

Tenorshare iCareFone - Best iOS Backup Tool and File Manager

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• Free backup everything you need on iPhone/iPad/iPod
• Transfer music, photos, videos, contacts, SMS without limitation
• Selectively restore files without erasing current data
• 1-Click to transfer photos from iPhone to PC/Mac
• Supports the latest iOS 18 and iPhone 16

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