How to Back Up Your iPhone Before Sending it for Repair
A simple, step-by-step guide to fully back up your iPhone before any repair — iCloud, Mac, Windows, and what to disable before handing it in.
How to Back Up Your iPhone Before a Repair
Always back up before any repair. Even a "screen-only" job can sometimes require a reset — and your photos, messages and 2FA apps are worth more than the phone itself.
Option 1: iCloud (easiest)
1. Connect to Wi-Fi and plug in to power. 2. Settings → [Your name] → iCloud → iCloud Backup. 3. Tap Back Up Now. 4. Wait until the timestamp updates to today.
Free iCloud only gives you 5GB. If your phone holds more, either temporarily upgrade to iCloud+ (50GB is £0.99/month) or use Option 2.
Option 2: Mac
1. Connect with a cable. 2. Open Finder → your device. 3. Choose Back up all of the data on your iPhone to this Mac. 4. Tick Encrypt local backup (this is essential — it backs up your passwords, Health data and Wi-Fi). 5. Set a password you'll remember. Click Back Up Now.
Option 3: Windows
Install Apple Devices (from the Microsoft Store) or iTunes, then follow the same encrypted backup flow.
Before you hand the phone in
- Sign out of Find My iPhone if asked (Settings → [Your name] → Find My)
- Remove any work / school accounts
- Note your screen passcode for the technician (or unlock it for them)
- Remove your SIM and SD card
- Take photos of the phone showing any existing scratches/dents for your records
After the repair
- Restore from your backup if you needed a reset
- Re-enable Find My iPhone
- Re-enroll Face ID / Touch ID if affected
