iPhone 16 Stuck on Preparing to Transfer [Top 6 Ways to Use]

For users upgrading to a new iPhone, the main issue is usually how to transfer data from the old device to the new one. Apple’s Quick Start feature simplifies this process by allowing you to quickly set up a new iPhone by transferring content from the old device. However, recently many people have reported an issue“iPhone 16 stuck on preparing to transfer” during this process.

If you're experiencing this frustrating issue, then you've come to the right place. This post has gathered all possible ways to help you resolve the iPhone stuck on preparing to transfer screen.

#1. Alternative Way to Transfer Data to New iPhone 16 [One-Click]

If your iPhone is stuck on preparing to transferor you have a large number of files to transfer, it might be time to try a powerful alternative tool called AOMEI FoneBackup. This iPhone data transfer app is designed to quickly and efficiently move your data to your new iPhone 16 with one click.

Highlights of Using AOMEI FoneBackupto Transfer Data to a New iPhone 16: One-Click Transfer: With just a single click, you can effortlessly transfer all your data to your new iPhone 16, making the process quick and straightforward. Complete Data Transfer: AOMEI FoneBackupensures that all types of data - including contacts, photos, videos, messages, apps, and settings - are transferred to your new device. No Internet Required: AOMEI FoneBackup allows you to transfer data without an Internet connection, ensuring a faster and more secure transfer process. High-Speed Transfer: Optimized for speed, AOMEI FoneBackup lets you transfer large amounts of data in a short period. Compatibility with All iPhone Models: AOMEI FoneBackup supports data transfer between all iPhone models (including the latest iPhone 16).

To initiate the data transfer process using AOMEI FoneBackup, click the download button provided below and follow the step-by-step guide to transferring data to your iPhone 16:

Step 1: Begin by installing and launching FoneTool on your PC > Connect your current and new iPhone devices to the computer using two separate USB cables.

Step 2: Navigate to the left pane and select Phone Transfer > Go ahead and select the iPhone to iPhone option and click Get Started to continue.

Step 3: Verify the source iPhone and the target iPhone > Enable backup encryption for added security > Click Start Transfer to initiate the data transfer process.

Notably, if you only have one USB cable or you don’t want to transfer all data to your new iPhone 16, you can go to Phone Transfer > iPhone to PC to selectively transfer data from iPhone to computer. Then, go to PC to iPhone to transfer old data to your iPhone 16 from PC.

#2. How to Fix iPhone 16 Stuck on Preparing to Transfer - 5 Ways

If you don’t want to use any third-party apps to transfer data from your old iPhone to your new iPhone 16, you can consider applying the following ways to fix “iPhone transfer stuck on preparing to transfer”.

Way 1. Maintain Proximity Between Your Two iPhones

Is transferring data from old to new iPhone stuck? The first thing that you should consider is that there is not enough distance between your iPhones. While there's no strict distance requirement, making sure they're within 5-15 feet of each other can often avoid delays. If necessary, keep both devices connected to a power source throughout the data transfer.

Way 2. Verify the iOS Version

When experiencing an issue “ iPhone stuck on preparing to transfer screen”, begin your troubleshooting journey by confirming the compatibility of the iOS versions on both devices. For optimal functionality, make sure both devices are running the same version of iOS. Here’s how to update your iOS:

Step 1: On your two iPhone devices, go to Settings > General > Software Update.

Step 2: Select Download and Install > Once the download is complete, click Install Now to begin the installation.

Also Read: New iPhone Stuck on Software Update? 6 Ways to Fix It >>

Way 3. Connect iPhones to the Same Wi-Fi Network

In addition to ensuring the same iOS versions on both iPhones, please make sure that both iPhones are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. To achieve seamless wireless data transfer with Quick Start, your current device must be connected to a Bluetooth-enabled Wi-Fi network.

Differences in network strength between devices may cause transmission delays. To verify this connection:

Step 1: Navigate to Settings > Wi-Fi and verify the name of the Wi-Fi network.

Step 2: Ensure that the network names on both devices match for uninterrupted data transfer.

Way 4. Reset Network Settings

Sometimes, glitches in the iPhone network settings can cause persistent problems, such as getting stuck during a transmission. Resetting network settings essentially restores the Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and other network-related configurations on your device. To do so, proceed as follows:

Step 1: Navigate to Settings and go to General > Reset or Transfer iPhone.

Step 2: Select the Reset option and then select Reset Network Settings from the subsequent prompts.

Step 3: Enter the on-screen passcode as required and tap Reset to confirm the reset.

After the device reboots, re-establish the Wi-Fi connection and try the file transfer again for smoother operation.

Way 5. Clear Redundant Data and Files

Transferring large amounts of data from an old iPhone to a new one can significantly lengthen the transfer process and may cause the iPhone to get stuck in preparation. To effectively resolve this issue, you can first back up your important iPhone data and then delete other data on iPhone to clean up your old iPhone.

All in all, if the previously mentioned ways don't fix “iPhone 16 stuck on preparing to transfer”, don’t worry - you still have other options for transferring content from your old iPhone to your new one. AOMEI FoneBackup will be a top choice for you to transfer data to your new iPhone 16.

Related Questions About iPhone 16 Stuck on Preparing to Transfer

Here are some related questions you might consider for content about the issue of “iPhone transfer stuck on preparing to transfer”:

1. Why Is iPhone Transfer Stuck on Preparing to Transfer?

If your iPhone 16 is stuck on preparing to transferor seems to be taking a long time, consider the following possible reasons:

• Both iPhones are not connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
• An older iPhone is running an outdated version of iOS.
• A minor software glitch on either device can cause a delay.
• You're transferring a lot of data, which naturally slows down the fast startup process.

2. How Long Does Preparing to Transfer Take on an iPhone?

The process of data transfer via Quick Start typically lasts between 20 to 40 minutes. Therefore, it is advisable to select a time slot where you can afford to be without your current iPhone for an extended period.

3. Can You Shorten the Time of Transferring Data to iPhone16?

To speed up the transfer process, make sure both of your iPhones are connected to a high-speed Internet connection, and consider deleting unnecessary files, especially large videos, before data transfer. Also, for a fast and efficient data transfer experience, try to use AOMEI FoneBackup to help you transfer data from iPhone to iPhone after setup.

The Bottom Line

If you have encountered the issue of “iPhone 16 stuck on preparing to transfer”, you may think it's a big problem, but it’s usually due to a glitch that you can easily fix. Following the ways outlined above should help you overcome this annoying issue and ensure that the data transfer goes smoothly.

However, if you are looking for a more reliable and faster way to transfer data, consider using AOMEI FoneBackup - a tool that can transfer GBs of data from your iPhone to your computer in minutes, making it easy to switch to a new iPhone. Why not try it out? Download AOMEI FoneBackup and explore its powerful features.