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Nazwisko

macrumors member
Original poster
Oct 27, 2012
66
18
Hello Everyone,

I currently have iPhone 11 and I'm upgrading to the new iPhone 13. I must admit my current iPhone is a mess.
So I'd like to setup a new iPhone from a scratch instead of using transfer or backup options. The only thing I really need from my current iPhone are iMessages.

I currently do not sync via iCloud but I definitively could if suggested. I can upgrade the storage if needed. However this would be an option only if afterwards I would be able to turn off sync, delete the iMessages from the iCloud, and keep them on my iPhone.

Question:
What is the easiest way I can transfer iMessages (ONLY!) from my old iPhone 11 to my new iPhone 13?

Any feedback / assistance / etc. would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
 
Messages in the Cloud is probably the easiest way. I don't know if iMazing allows you to do that or not, but then again it isn't free.
Thanks. I'm leaning toward iCloud option. Can you confirm I won't loose the Messages after I turn off sync and delete them from iCloud? I'm embarrassed to admit but I have no idea. I have never used iCloud sync myself but I read tons of scary stories. ;)
 
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Thanks. I'm leaning toward iCloud option. Can you confirm I won't loose the Messages after I turn off sync and delete them from iCloud? I'm embarrassed to admit but I have no idea. I have never used iCloud sync myself but I read tons of scary stories. ;)

As long as they're on the new phone beforehand, no you shouldn't.

When you get the new phone, I'd do this.

Delete all green bubble people if you truly mean iMessage only otherwise ignore this 😂
Turn on Messages in the Cloud and plug the 11 in so it syncs.
Set up the new phone.
Switch on Messages in the Cloud on the new device and plug in so it downloads the messages.
After you confirm they're there, switch it off.
Reset old phone.
 
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Thanks for the detailed instructions CMoore! Seems like it's the easiest way indeed.

Delete all green bubble people if you truly mean iMessage only otherwise ignore this 😂

I didn't exactly have such drastic measures in mind but now that you mentioned it.... 😂
 
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As long as they're on the new phone beforehand, no you shouldn't.

When you get the new phone, I'd do this.

Delete all green bubble people if you truly mean iMessage only otherwise ignore this 😂
Turn on Messages in the Cloud and plug the 11 in so it syncs.
Set up the new phone.
Switch on Messages in the Cloud on the new device and plug in so it downloads the messages.
After you confirm they're there, switch it off.
Reset old phone.
Thanks again for your help. I did as you had suggested and everything went well! 👍
 
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