Some users might not be aware of this, but when you get a new iPhone or iPad you’re eligible for free temporary iCloud storage. This works great for people who have an iPhone or iPad that won’t backup to iCloud since iCloud is full. Apple gives you this storage space so you can easily transfer the files from your old device to your new one.

If you got a new iPhone or iPad, and want temporary iCloud storage to back up your old iPhone, this tutorial is for you. Hopefully, you’ll get your new device set up in no time.

Step 1. Update to the Latest iOS

To claim the free temporary cloud storage, you’ll need to make sure your current device is updated to the latest version of iOS. This will ensure you have access to this feature.

If you don’t have the latest version of iOS yet, head to Settings > General > Software Update to update. If you are eligible for an update, tap Download and Install.

download update

Once updated, you’re ready to proceed to the next step.

2. Create a Temporary Backup on Your iPhone or iPad

To create a temporary backup, you’ll need to head to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset Device. Here, you’ll see a banner at the top that says Prepare for New iPhone. Tap Get Started.

prepare for new iphone

Once you tap Get Started, a notification will come up if you don’t have enough iCloud storage to back up your device. This will allow you to claim as much free iCloud storage as you need to make a backup of your current device.

If you don’t see this message, it means that you already have enough iCloud storage to make a backup. This means you don’t need the free temporary storage space.

The free backup is available for 21 days. If you can’t set up your new device before that time is up, you can request an additional 21 days. When you open Settings, you’ll see an option labeled Keep My Backup Longer. Tap this to claim the extra time.

3. Install Your Backup to Your New Device

Once you’ve claimed your free iCloud storage and made a backup of your current device, it’s time to install the backup on your new device. To do this, turn on your new iPhone or iPad and follow the onscreen steps for setting up your device.

Once you reach the Apps & Data screen, tap Restore from iCloud Backup. Then, sign in to your iCloud account. Make sure you use the same account that you made a backup with. After you sign in, you’ll see an option to choose your backup. Just select your most recent backup and continue.

Once you do this, your iPhone or iPad will restore your backup from the free temporary iCloud storage. Then, your new device will be set up and you’ll be ready to begin using it. There are no other steps you need to complete—all your apps, photos, and contacts will be on this new device.

Your temporary iCloud backup will be available for seven days after you restore it on your new device. If you want to keep an up-to-date backup of your new device, try clearing out your iCloud storage or upgrading your iCloud plan. You can also reduce the size of your iPhone backup so you won’t need as much iCloud storage.

Get Free iCloud Storage to Switch to a New Device

Apple offering free iCloud storage to swap your devices is incredibly helpful. Especially if you don’t have enough storage space on your current iCloud plan to keep everything. By claiming this free offer, you won’t need to delete files or apps to make a backup and swap devices.

By claiming the free temporary iCloud storage from Apple, you can start using your new device faster. That way, you don’t have to worry about deleting files to make enough space for a backup.