The most popular and convenient way to back up an iPhone is to use the native Apple service, iCloud. Using iCloud, a user can upload all documents, media and files on an iOS device to an online space and re-download those files on another device. The service also allows users to transfer passwords and personal settings, essentially making it possible to recreate their device.
In order to do this, however, a user will need to use Wi-Fi services. While there is no official word from Apple why they did not make the service available for cellular users, it does mean that people will not find themselves with hefty cellular charges for performing a full backup.
While it is not possible to perform a full back up, it is however possible to back up some files and media.
iCloud Drive
iCloud Drive is the name for Apple’s online storage service, which makes it possible to access files from all of your Apple devices. While it cannot perform a full iCloud backup, users are able to upload some files and media to iCloud Drive from their device without being connected to Wi-Fi.
- You first need to turn on iCloud Drive. You can do this by launching Settings, pressing iCloud and then choosing iCloud Drive. In here, you’ll see a toggle. Tap to switch it on, and it will appear green when it is enabled. There is also a toggle for Show on Home Screen, which you will need to enable to be able to launch the app.
- You will also need to enable cellular uploads. In the same page on settings, you will see a toggle for Use Cellular Data towards the bottom of your screen.
- If you did not have iCloud Drive enabled on iOS 9 before updating to iOS 10, then you will need download the app from the App Store. Just launch App Store from the home screen, search for iCloud Drive, press Get and the download will begin.
- To upload files, launch the iCloud Drive app from your home screen, where you will be presented with folders that contain your files. You simply press the files that you want to move, press the Move button, and then tap on the folder that you want to move it to.
All users get 5GB of storage for free, but subscription fees allow you to upload more.
