How to Transfer Data from iPhone 11/12 to iPhone 16e Easily

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By Jenefey Aaron

2025-02-27 / Transfer

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Upgrading to the latest iPhone 16e is an exciting experience, but ensuring your data is safely transferred from your old iPhone 12 or 13 is crucial.

How to transfer data from iPhone 11/12 to iPhone 16e? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from preparation to execution, using both built-in Apple tools and third-party solutions like Tenorshare iCareFone. Let’s dive in!

Comparison of Methods

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Method
Pros
Cons
Tenorshare iCareFone
Selective transfer, fast, additional features
Requires a computer, free version has limitations
Quick Start
Wireless, fast, and simple
Limited to two nearby iPhones
iCloud
Wireless, automatic backups, convenient
Limited free storage, slower transfer speeds
Finder/iTunes
Local backup, faster transfer speeds
Requires a computer, restores all data

Part 1. Before iPhone Data Transfer

Before you start transferring data, it’s important to prepare both your old and new devices. Proper preparation ensures a smooth and error-free process.

What You’ll Need to Prepare

  • Your Old iPhone 11/12: Ensure it’s running iOS 12 or later.
  • Your New iPhone 16e: Make sure it’s fully charged or connected to power.
  • Stable Wi-Fi Connection: Required for iCloud backups and transfers.
  • Apple ID Credentials: You’ll need your Apple ID and password to sign in and restore data.
  • USB Cable: For connecting your iPhone to a computer or using Quick Start.

Back Up Your Old iPhone

Backing up your old iPhone is a crucial step to ensure none of your important data is lost during the transfer process. There are 3 main ways to back up your data, each with its own advantages:

Back Up to iCloud:

This is Apple’s cloud-based solution, allowing you to back up your data wirelessly. This method is convenient and doesn’t require a computer, but it relies on your iCloud storage space.

Back Up to a Computer:

If you prefer a local backup, you can use Finder or iTunes. This method is faster and doesn’t rely on cloud storage, but it requires a computer and USB cable.

Use Tenorshare iCareFone for Free Backup:

For a more flexible and feature-rich backup experience, Tenorshare iCareFone is an excellent choice. This tool allows selective backups and offers additional features like HEIC conversion and app management, making it ideal for users who want more control over their data.

Part 2. Methods to Transfer Data from iPhone 11/12 to iPhone 16e

When transferring data from your old iPhone 11 or 12 to the new iPhone 16e, you have several options to choose from. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, so you can pick the one that best fits your needs.

1. Transfer iPhone 16e Data via Tenorshare iCareFone (Free iPhone Backup Tool)

Tenorshare iCareFone is a powerful all-in-one tool designed to simplify iOS data management. It allows you to transfer data between iPhones, back up and restore files, and even manage apps and media. It’s especially useful for users who want more control over their data.

How to transfer data from iPhone 11/12 to iPhone 16e:

  • Download and install Tenorshare iCareFone on your computer. Open iCareFone and connect your old iPhone to the PC. Choose “Backup & Restore” from the right menu.

    icarefone main interface
  • Then select all the data and click on Backup button.

    transfer data to new iPhone 16
  • When the backup is completed, choose “View Backup Data”.

    data from old iphone backup completed
  • Now disconnect your old iPhone and connect your new iPhone 14/15/16 to the computer. Tick all the data and choose “Restore to Device”.
    transfer data from old iphone to new iphone 16
  • And boom, all your stuff is now in the new iPhone! As simple as that!

    new iPhone 16 complete data transfer

Pros:

  • You can choose specific data types to transfer.
  • Fast and Efficient - No Wi-Fi required; works directly via USB.
  • Offers additional features like HEIC conversion, app downloads, and more.

Cons:

  • Requires a computer and USB cable.
  • Free version has limited features; full functionality requires a paid upgrade.

2. Transfer from iPhone 11/12 to iPhone 16e without Computer

Quick Start is a feature designed by Apple to make transferring data between iPhones quick and easy. It uses Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to transfer data directly from your old iPhone to your new one.

To use Quick Start to transfer data to iPhone 16e without computer:

  • Place your old iPhone 11/12 near your iPhone 16e.
  • A prompt will appear on your old iPhone asking if you want to set up the new device. Tap Continue.
  • Use your old iPhone to scan the animation on your iPhone 16e.
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
  • transfer from iphone 11 to iphone 16e

Pros:

  • No cables or computers needed.
  • Ideal for users who want a hassle-free experience.

Cons:

  • Both devices need to be nearby and charged.
  • Limited to transferring data between two iPhones.

3. Transfer Data from iPhone 11/12 to iPhone 16e via iCloud

iCloud is Apple’s cloud-based storage service that allows you to back up and restore your iPhone data. It’s a convenient option for users who prefer wireless transfers.

Steps to transfer data via iCloud:

  • On your old iPhone 11/12, go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup.
  • Tap Back Up Now and wait for the process to complete.
  • On your iPhone 16e, sign in with your Apple ID during setup.
  • Choose Restore from iCloud Backup and select the most recent backup.
  • Wait for the restore process to finish.
  • transfer data to iphone 16e with icloud

Pros:

  • No cables or computers required.
  • iCloud can back up your data regularly.

Cons:

  • Limited to 5GB of free storage; additional storage requires a subscription.
  • Slower transfer speeds compared to wired methods.

4. Transfer Data from Old iPhone to iPhone 16e via iTunes/Finder

Finder (on macOS Catalina or later) or iTunes (on older macOS or Windows) allows you to back up your old iPhone to a computer and restore it to your new iPhone 16e. This method is ideal for users who prefer local backups.

Steps to transfer data via Finder/iTunes:

  • Connect your old iPhone 11/12 to your computer using a USB cable.
  • Open Finder or iTunes and select your device.
  • Click Back Up Now and wait for the backup to complete.
  • Disconnect your old iPhone and connect your iPhone 16e.
  • Select Restore Backup and choose the relevant backup file.
  • Wait for the process to finish.
  • tranfer to iphone 16e with itunes

Pros:

  • No need for cloud storage.
  • Works directly via USB.

Cons:

  • Requires a computer and USB cable.
  • Restores all data, which may not be ideal for selective transfers.

Part 3. Tips for a Smooth iPhone16e Transfer

To ensure a seamless data transfer experience, follow these tips:

  • Ensure your old iPhone 11/12 and new iPhone 16e are running the latest version of iOS.
  • A stable Wi-Fi connection is essential for iCloud backups and transfers.
  • Keep both devices charged to at least 50% or connect them to power during the transfer.
  • Make sure your new iPhone 16e has enough storage for the transferred data.
  • If you need additional functionality like HEIC conversion, app downloads, or batch data management, Tenorshare iCareFone is a great choice.
  • Large backups can take time, so avoid interrupting the process.

Conclusion

Transferring data from an iPhone 11 or 12 to the new iPhone 16e doesn’t have to be complicated. By following this guide, you’ll ensure all your important data—photos, contacts, messages, and more—is safely transferred to your new device.

Download Tenorshare iCareFone today to simplify your data transfer process and enjoy a seamless upgrade to your iPhone 16e. Happy transferring!

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