How do transfer my data from my old iPad to new iPad?

Before starting your data transfer, it’s important to know what type of device you’re moving data between.

If you’re transferring from iPad to iPad — this guide is for you.
If you're transferring from iPhone to iPad, visit this guide here.
If you’re transferring from iPad to Android, you’ll need a different process.

Automatic Wireless Transfer

If both iPads are working and running iPadOS 13 or later, you can use Quick Start to set up your new iPad automatically.

Quick Start uses both devices during setup, so choose a time when you won’t need your current iPad for several minutes.

1. Make sure your current iPad is connected to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth is on.
2. Turn on your new iPad and place it near your current one.
3. Follow the onscreen prompts to begin setup.
4. If the setup prompt disappears, restart both devices and try again.
5. Connect your new iPad to Wi-Fi or cellular when prompted.
6. Set up Touch ID or Face ID if required.
7. Choose your transfer method:

Download from iCloud

• Your apps and data restore in the background
• You can start using the device sooner

Or Transfer directly from your current iPad

• Both devices must stay nearby
• You must wait until the transfer is fully complete

Keep both iPads close together and plugged into power until the data transfer finishes. Transfer time depends on your network connection and how much data is being moved.

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Transfer Data Using a Wired Connection

You can also transfer data to your new iPad using a direct cable connection. Data is transferred over the cable, but the new iPad may still need Wi-Fi or cellular for activation during setup.

Choose the steps below that match your iPad models.

USB-C iPad → USB-C iPad (Newer iPads)

Use a USB-C Charge Cable and connect both iPads through their charging ports.

1. Turn on both iPads and follow the onscreen setup prompts.
2. Connect the new iPad to Wi-Fi or cellular if asked.
3. Set up Face ID or Touch ID.
4. Select Transfer Directly from iPad.
5. Keep both devices connected and powered until the transfer finishes.

Transfer time varies depending on data size and setup conditions.

Lightning iPad → USB-C iPad (Older → Newer)

Use a USB-C to Lightning Cable to connect the devices.

1. Turn on both devices and follow the setup instructions.
2. Connect the new iPad to Wi-Fi or cellular if prompted.
3. Set up Touch ID or Face ID.
4. Choose Transfer Directly from iPad.
5. Wait for the transfer to fully complete before using either device.

Transfer time varies depending on data size and setup conditions.

Lightning iPad → Lightning iPad (Older Models)

You will need:

• Lightning to USB 3 Camera Adapter
• Lightning to USB Cable
• A 12W or higher power adapter (required)

1. Plug the power adapter into the Lightning port on the Camera Adapter.
2. Connect the Camera Adapter to your current iPad.
3. Plug the Lightning to USB Cable into your new iPad.
4. Connect the other end of the cable to the Camera Adapter.
5. Turn on both devices and follow the onscreen setup prompts.
6. Connect the new iPad to Wi-Fi or cellular if needed.
7. Set up Touch ID or Face ID.
8. Keep both devices plugged in and connected until the transfer completes.

This method will not work unless the Camera Adapter is powered.

Need Help?

If you’re having trouble transferring your data or want us to handle it for you, Sour Tech offers professional data transfer services between any two devices. We’re happy to make the process smooth and stress-free for you. Just give us a call or visit us in-person to schedule your data transfer service.

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Sour Tech Hours
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Saturday: 10 AM - 5 PM

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901 Harvey Road Suite A, College Station, TX 77840