Why doesn't a new iPhone offer transfer using a phone number?
Answer
Quick Start and nearby transfer options appear only when both iPhones are close, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are on, and the old iPhone is unlocked on a supported iOS version. Use the cable or iCloud migration alternatives if the phone-number transfer choice never appears.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Restoring the wrong backup can overwrite the new phone setup and miss newer data.
Follow these steps
Prepare both iPhones
Turn on the old iPhone, unlock it, enable Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, and place it directly beside the new iPhone on the setup screen.
You should see: A Quick Start prompt appears on the old iPhone, or setup still offers manual options.
Use Quick Start or cable transfer
Follow Transfer from iPhone if shown. If not, connect the phones with a compatible cable when offered, or choose Set Up Manually.
You should see: Data transfer begins, or you reach the Apple ID and apps restore path.
Fall back to iCloud restore
If nearby transfer never appears, set up the new iPhone with the same Apple ID and restore from the latest iCloud backup made on the old phone.
You should see: Apps, accounts, and settings restore from iCloud.
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Extra tips
What to look for: Quick Start, Transfer from iPhone, Set Up Manually, and any mention of continuing on the old device during new-phone setup.
Before you change anything: Charge both iPhones. Update the old iPhone if it can take a newer iOS version. Have the Apple ID password ready. Keep a current iCloud or computer backup before erasing either phone.