Do you know when the last time you did a back up of your phone? There are various ways you can backup your iOS or Android devices and below we've summarised some key methods.
How to back up your phone’s data
When it comes to backing up your phone, it is not always an automatic process. The net result could be that you end up losing all your files if your phone gets damaged. Likewise, if you are unable to turn your device back on, you might not be able to save or retrieve anything on it.
It is important to back up your phone's data regularly, despite the increasing amount of storage on our phones. We still tend to use this data allowance, with the apps that we use and the data they store, let alone all the photos and videos of cute cats or dogs (on any other animal for that matter)!
Do you know when you last did a good clean out of all those memes and images you might not want any more? When was the last time you did a back up to ensure you could retrieve the messages and images you do want to keep?!
There are various ways you can backup your iOS or Android devices, below you will see a variety of different methods, which will allow you to choose the best way for you.
How do I back up an Apple iPhone?
We found 3 different ways to backup your data on your iPhone:
- Directly from the device using Apple’s iCloud
- Directly to your computer using iTunes
- A hybrid approach of both options
Using Apple’s iCloud
First, let’s look at how you can use the iCloud to store your photos, videos, documents etc. for free up to 5GB, however you can upgrade to additional amounts of storage:
50 GB: £0.79 per month*
200 GB: £2.49 per month*
2 TB: £6.99 per month*
To enable iCloud backup on your iOS device, navigate to the Settings app -> iCloud -> Backup. At this point you can also choose which apps you allow to backup. Sign in to iCloud if prompted and then tap ‘Back Up Now’ to begin backing up.
Pro - Easy to restore data if yours is lost or damaged, to a replacement device. It’s also handy for upgrading to a new device.
Con - You cannot restore your device back to the condition it was a week ago, as no prior versions are stored. You’ll very quickly run out of the 5GB storage - especially if you choose to backup your photos.
Back up your iPhone using iTunes
Available for iPhones that are on iOS 3.0 (released in 2009) or later. iTunes can encrypt your backups to secure your data.
If you choose to use iTunes, then simply plug your iPhone into your Mac with iTunes installed, and from the ‘Summary’ page of the device, there’s a ‘Back Up Now’ button to manually start a backup.
However, in 2019 Apple announced iTunes would be replaced on Mac with Apple Music, Podcasts & Apple TV. Due to this, Apple may not support iTunes going forward** , ideally if you are using this method, then you may want to consider moving your back to another method in case the support for this stops and you may end up losing you data, especially as Apple Music isn't a backup service.
Pro - Backups are fast, as it’s relying on USB transfer speeds.
Con - There are no reminders to backup your phone, so make sure you remind yourself to periodically plug in your iOS device to back this up.
Online Storage options
Another way to backup your iPhone is by using online storage services, which may be less expensive than purchasing additional storage through Apples’ iCloud, and if you are not sure you’ll always have an iPhone, most of these online storage services can be used by both Apple or Android.
Pro - Some you can access your data without the need for a laptop.
Con - Limits to the amount of data you can store for free, most have options to purchase more storage if needed.
How do I backup my Android phone?
We also found 3 different ways to backup your data on your Android device, such as your Samsung, Sony, Google, Oppo, Huawei, OnePlus or Xiaomi phone.
Google Sync
Consider using Google to store your data into the Google account of your choosing. All your data is synced across various devices automatically, if you are signed into them with the aforementioned account.
All Google accounts include 15 GB of storage free of charge, but you can upgrade to additional amounts of storage:
100 GB - £1.59* per month
200 GB - £2.49* per month
2 TB - £7.99* per month
Pro - Easy to use solution for backing up data
Con - You need a Google account to access this.
You could use a different Online storage service which may be useful, but as Google Sync has, these services may have a limit to how much data you can upload for free.
Backup Data from Android with USB Cable
Easily connect your Android to computer (Mac or PC) using a USB cable, once connected you'll find your device under removable storage or portable device, simply move the data you wish to keep onto your computer storage. Pro - Low cost especially if you already have a PC or external hard drive. Con - Takes up space on your computer or hard drive, so try only storing what you need ((*hastily deletes several memes.. ahem*)).
Pro - Backups are fast, as it’s relying on USB transfer speeds.
Con - There are no reminders to backup your phone, so make sure you remind yourself to periodically plug in your iOS device to back this up.
Using Syncios Mobile Manager
If you choose to, you can download and install the Syncios Android & iOS Manager***, which can transfer Between Android and PC freely. Syncios can access data on any iPhone or Android, and can be used to back up all contacts, songs, photos etc.
Pro - Transfer files from your iPhone, iPad, iPod or Android phone.
Con - In-App Purchases
Backup your phones data regularly
Be sure to back up your phone data as regularly as you can, as not only is is good for your device and its longevity, but you will be able to retrieve your memories should the worst happen to your device, and also, this is something that we would ask you to do prior to sending your phone in for repair*^.
* Prices accurate as of August 2021
** Always take care when backing up your data.
*** Please note, we do not endorse or responsible for 3rd part apps, please consider these carefully before using.
*^ Always check if the policy terms and conditions, and check the policy suits your needs before purchasing.
Sources:
Apple Support
Guide to iTunes
iTunes isnt dead
Syncios Review
Syncios - 3 ways to backup Android phone
Advantages and Disadvantages of Internet storage
Backup your iPhone
Mobile backup
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