Backup: how to prepare your new iPhone

If you have pre-ordered an iPhone XS ($ 999 at Sprint) or XS Max ($ 1,100 at Sprint) – and you've been quick about it – your new phone will arrive tomorrow.

But before unpacking your new phone, you will have to spend a little more time on your current iPhone to save it and prepare the data transfer. This is also a great opportunity to get rid of applications that you no longer use and empty the storage. Here's how.

Get rid of unused apps

I think we can all just download an app or game just to check it and never open it again. Before setting up your new phone, browse your device's apps and delete any apps you no longer use. Each application takes only storage space and clutters your home screens.

Back up your photo library

Photos and videos are among the most valuable elements of your iPhone. Be sure to save them. The best way is to use a photo backup service such as iCloud Photo Library or Google Photos from Apple.

iCloud is the simplest and integrated with iOS, but depending on the size of your library, it can cost you money every month for storage. Google Photos is free, as long as you do not mind not backing up full resolution versions of your photos or videos.

Clean your storage

Open the Settings app then select General > IPhone storage (This option reflects the type of device you are using). Leave the page for this parameter complete, and then try to remove any excess storage used by an application.

For example, if you've convinced yourself that you're finally going to start listening to podcasts and downloading a certain number of episodes, but have not heard any more, you can delete them.

Back up your device

Finally, with erased storage, deleted apps, and valuable keepsakes safely stored out of your device, it's time to back up your iPhone.

The easiest way is to go to Settings and select your name at the very top of the Settings app. Then go to iCloud > ICloud backup > Save now. Make sure you are connected to a Wi-Fi network and your device is also connected to a charger.

You can also use iTunes to back up your iOS device with an encrypted backup. This process eliminates the need to enter account passwords if you need to restore or configure a new device later. follow the instructions in this article.

With all this, you are ready for your new phone. Once it's set up, check out these 10 hidden features.