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New iPhone? Here’s the Setup Trick Everyone Should Know
This article explains how to set up a new iPhone running iOS 15 and later. Specific steps may differ based on the version of the operating system you're running, but the basic process will be the same.
How to Set Up Your New iPhone: Power On and Get Started
After unboxing and charging your new iPhone, start by powering it one and choosing your basic preferences. Here are the exact steps:
Turn on or wake up your iPhone. To wake it, just press the sleep/power button. To turn it on, you'll need to hold that button down (depending on your model). Swipe the slider to begin the activation.
Next, choose your language and region, which determine how your iPhone displays text and formats settings like date, time, and currency. You can change these later if needed. Tap Next to continue.
Expert Tip: Note
The option you pick in this step won't prevent you from using your phone in other countries if you travel or move to them, but it determines what your home country is.
If you’re upgrading from another iPhone, you’ll see the option to use Quick Start. Place your old phone next to the new one, scan the code with your camera, and enter your passcode when prompted. This automatically transfers settings, Wi-Fi info, and Apple ID details, skipping several manual steps.
If you don’t have another iPhone, tap Set Up Manually to continue.
Connect your iPhone to Wi-Fi (or to a computer with iTunes if Wi-Fi isn’t available) to activate the device. During activation, confirm your phone number, enter your carrier details, and agree to Apple’s Terms and Conditions. When you're finished, tap Next to proceed.
Related: Can't Connect to the Internet? Try These Tips
At this point, you’ll set up your security options, such as Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode. While optional, enabling at least one is strongly recommended for protection. You’ll also be asked to sign in with your Apple ID (or create one). Your Apple ID unlocks essential features like iCloud, the App Store, and Apple Pay.
You can now restore data from an iCloud backup, a Mac/PC, or even transfer content from an Android phone. If you prefer a clean slate, select Don’t Transfer Apps & Data.
Finally, you’ll see options to customize your iPhone with services like Apple Pay, iCloud, Siri, Screen Time, and Location Services. These can be set up now or later in Settings. When you’re ready, tap Get Started.
Your iPhone is now ready to use.
Related: How to Transfer Data From iPhone to iPhone
Frequently asked Questions
Can I set up a new iPhone without Wi-Fi?
Yes. If Wi-Fi isn’t available, you can connect your iPhone to a computer with iTunes (or Finder on a Mac running macOS Catalina or later) to complete activation.
How do I transfer data from my old iPhone to my new one?
You can use Quick Start to transfer data wirelessly from another iPhone, restore from an iCloud or iTunes backup, or connect your old device to your new one with a cable for a direct transfer.
What should I do after I set up my new iPhone?
The first step is to enable Find My iPhone for device security, then set up features like Apple Pay, Face ID or Touch ID, and your Medical ID for emergency access.
How do I set up a new email account on my iPhone?
To set up a new email account on your iPhone, go to Settings > Mail > Accounts > Add Account. Choose an email client, enter the login info, and follow the instructions to add the account.
How do I connect my Apple Watch to my new iPhone?
When you restore a backup of your old iPhone, it will ask if you want to connect your Apple Watch to your new iPhone. Tap Continue, put the new iPhone near your Apple Watch, and then follow the onscreen instructions.