MobiKin

5 Tried-and-tested Methods to Not Transfer Photos to New iPhone

"I want to set up my new iPhone 16 and need to transfer contacts, notes and messages, apps, etc. I don't want to transfer photos to new iPhone. Any tips?" - from Apple Support Community

 

When setting up a new iPhone, it is common to selectively transfer specific files, excluding photos, from your old device. This can be particularly useful when you only need to migrate certain types of data to protect your privacy. In such scenarios, it's important to know the methods available for achieving this goal. Here, we will discuss how to not transfer photos to new iPhone in the 4 most advisable ways. Now let's get started.

Way 1: How to Transfer Everything Except Photos to New iPhone via iCloud Backup

iCloud enables you to disable iCloud Photos, create a backup, manage pictures on the iPhone you want to restore, and ultimately set up your new iPhone using its backup. Learn how to not transfer photos to new iPhone via iCloud backup:

  • To create a backup, disable "iCloud Photos" by going to "Settings" > [your account] > "iCloud" > "Photos".
  • Next, navigate to "iCloud Backup" and tap "Back Up Now" to initiate the backup process.
  • how to not transfer photos to new iphone via icloud backup

  • Keep in mind that if iCloud Photos is enabled, your photos are automatically stored in iCloud and won't be included in the backup.
  • If you want to manage the photos you restore on your new iPhone, go to "Settings" > [your name] > "iCloud" > "iCloud Backup".
  • Select your device and delete the unwanted photos from the "Photos" section.
  • After successfully backing up your data on the old iPhone, proceed to set up your new iPhone.
  • During the setup, when you reach the "Apps & Data" screen, choose "Restore from iCloud Backup".

Recommended Resource:

Way 2: How to Stop Photos from Transferring to New iPhone with iCloud Sync

By disabling iCloud Photos on your current iPhone, the images will not be synced to iCloud, and they won't transfer to your new iPhone when setting it up. Keep in mind that this will only prevent the photos from being transferred. Next, how do I stop my photos from transferring to my new iPhone?

  • Access the "Settings" on your old iPhone.
  • Navigate to [your account] > "iCloud" and enable the corresponding toggle switches for the desired data. (iCloud backup doesn't work?)
  • how to transfer everything except photos to new iPhone via icloud sync

  • On your new iPhone, complete the setup process.
  • Open the "Settings" app and locate the "iCloud Sync" option.
  • Enable it to initiate the synchronization.

Bear in mind that the completion of the sync won't be indicated; please manually check the status within the relevant app on your new iPhone 16/15/14/13/12/11/X/8. What's more, disabling iCloud Photos won't affect other iCloud backups like app data, settings, or messages. You can still back up your device via Settings > iCloud Backup.

 

Way 3: How to Transfer All Data Except Photos to a Different iPhone Using iTunes

Can I choose not to transfer photos to a new iPhone without iCloud via iTunes? Of course! Preventing photo transfer during the restoration is a straightforward task. But please remember to back up your iPhone, excluding photos using iTunes. By making some adjustments to the Settings, you can ensure that all your photos remain intact on your old iPhone. Here are the executable steps:

  • Verify that your latest photos are included in the backup.
  • Connect your iPhone to the computer using a Lightning cable.
  • Launch iTunes and locate your phone by clicking on its icon.
  • From the left column, uncheck "Sync Photos".
  • transfer all data except photos to a different iphone via itunes

  • Proceed with syncing your phone, and once it's done, perform a backup.
  • After the backup is over, disconnect your iPhone and connect the target device.
  • When this device appears in iTunes, go to "Summary".
  • Choose the option to restore your iPhone.
  • Select the backup you created earlier to initiate the restoration.

1. iTunes does not back up iCloud Photo Library content. If your photos are stored in iCloud, they won't be part of the iTunes backup and won't transfer to your new iPhone via iTunes. 2. If you uncheck "Sync Photos" and apply changes, any previously synced photos from that computer will be removed from your iPhone.

 

You May Also Be Interested to Know:

Way 4: How to Prevent Pics from Transferring to New iPhone via Quick Start

Quick Start lets you set up a new iPhone easily by transferring data from your old device. One key feature is the ability to exclude certain data types - like photos - while still transferring contacts, messages, apps, and settings. This gives you more control over what moves to your new iPhone without needing a full backup. Here's how:

  • When you power on your new iPhone and bring it near your old iPhone, the Quick Start screen will appear on your old device.
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to connect both phones.
  • Once your devices are connected, you'll be asked how you'd like to set up your new iPhone.
  • You can choose from options like restoring from an iCloud backup, an iTunes backup, or transferring data directly from your old iPhone.
  • During the data transfer process, you'll reach a screen where you can customize what gets transferred.
  • Look for the section titled "Apps & Data." Here, you should see the option to "Transfer Data from iPhone" with a list of data types.
  • transfer data between iphones with quick start

  • Uncheck or deselect "Photos" (or the "Photos & Camera" option) if it's listed as one of the items being transferred.
  • Once you've deselected photos, your photos will not be transferred to the new iPhone.

NOTE: If the transfer doesn't work, make sure both iPhones are connected to the same Wi-Fi network, have sufficient battery, and are running the latest iOS version. If issues persist, try transferring data using the method below.

 

Way 5: How to Not Transfer Photos to New iPhone with One Click

If you require transferring files other than photos from one iPhone to another, you can rely on MobiKin Transfer for Mobile (Win and Mac) for assistance. This software efficiently and swiftly copies content across various devices, irrespective of whether they run on iOS or Android. Additionally, it ensures a seamless transmission without any errors while preserving the integrity of the photos on the sending device.

MobiKin Transfer for Mobile - Key Characteristics:

  • With a single click, you can easily prevent photo transfer to your new iPhone.
  • Seamlessly transfer files between various devices (iOS/Android).
  • Effortlessly copy such files as iBooks, bookmarks, contacts, notes, calendars, text messages, photos, documents, videos, apps, and more.
  • Work well with overall iDevices, including iPhone 16/15/14/13/12/11/X/8/7.
  • It won't compromise your privacy.

win mobile transfer mac mobile transfer

How can I transfer all data except photos to a different iPhone via Transfer for Mobile?

Step 1. Start - Before proceeding, make sure the program is successfully installed on your computer. Connect both of your iDevices to the computer using USB cables. Then follow the on-screen instructions to let the devices be recognized.

initial interface of mobikin transfer for mobile

Step 2. Recognize - Once connected, the software will identify your old iPhone as the "Source" and the new one as the "Destination". If the devices are displayed incorrectly, simply click on the "Flip" option.

how to not transfer photos to new iphone with transfer for mobile

Step 3. Not Transfer - In the file list in the middle of the screen, choose the specific types of data you wish to transfer. Finally, click the "Start Copy" button to commence the immediate transfer from one iPhone to the other.

Video Directions:

FAQs on iPhone Photo Transfer

Q1: How to remove photos from iPhone but not iCloud?

Fortunately, there is a quick method to delete photos from iPhone but not iCloud. Here are the directions:

  • Open the "Photos" app on your iPhone.
  • Locate the photo(s) you want to remove.
  • Press the picture to view it in full screen.
  • Look for and tap the "trash" can icon at the bottom right corner of the screen.
  • A prompt will appear, asking if you want to delete the photo.
  • Select "Remove from iPhone"/"Remove from this iPhone".

Q2: Why are my photos showing up on my friend's iPhone?

You may use the "iCloud Photo Sharing" feature to share photos with your friend's iPhone. If so, you can now discontinue the sharing by following the instructions:

  • Open the Photos app on your iPhone.
  • Go to the "Albums" tab.
  • Select the shared album.
  • Tap "Edit" in the top right corner.
  • Tap the red "Delete" button.
  • Confirm by tapping "Delete Album".

Q3: Will my photos be lost if I cancel iCloud?

When you cancel your iCloud subscription, it results in the loss of all your data stored in the cloud, including photos. Nevertheless, if you have a backup of your data, you can restore it to your device even after canceling iCloud.

Wrap-up

Going through the passage, you'll find that MobiKin Transfer for Mobile is the ideal solution for transferring files to a new iPhone, excluding photos. With its intuitive interface and salient features, this software simplifies the job and allows you to select specific files like contacts, notes, books, and more while keeping your photo library untouched. Whether you're tech-savvy or a beginner, this tool can always offer a reliable and hassle-free solution.

win mobile transfer mac mobile transfer

Related Articles:

13 Things & 8 Ways to Consider When Switching from iPhone to Android

6 Most Recommended Ways to Transfer Photos from Android to iPhone 16/15/14/13/12/11

3 Easy Ways to Recover Deleted Photos from iPhone without Backup

Complete Guide on How to Fix iPhone Live Photos Not Working

Sara Arnot
Sara ArnotSenior Editor
 
Sara Arnot earned a bachelor's degree in engineering in 2016 and spent 2 years on software testing. Passionate on writing, she joined MobiKin Team, specializing in Mobile Phone Transfer, HEIC Converter, and Virtual Location. As an all-rounder, she often conducts training for new employees. Alongside excelling in post writing, she stays tuned to tech news to offer her audience top-notch services.
Home> Resource> Mobile Phone Transfer> 5 Tried-and-tested Methods to Not Transfer Photos to New iPhone
Feedback

FeedbackHelp us make our website better for you

Please select your question type and we'll guide you to the right service team.