How to Back Up iPhone to iCloud

Turn on iCloud Backup so your iPhone saves your photos, contacts, and settings to the cloud automatically.

Steps

1
Connect to WiFi
and plug your iPhone into power. iCloud backups only start when the phone is charging and on WiFi.
2
Open the Settings app
and tap your name at the top. This opens your Apple ID settings page.
3
Tap iCloud
then tap "iCloud Backup." Make sure the toggle switch is turned to green for on.
4
Tap "Back Up Now"
to start your first backup right away. The first backup may take an hour or more depending on your data.
5
Keep the phone connected
to WiFi and power until the backup finishes. Do not close the Settings app during backup.

How often does iCloud back up my iPhone?Show

iCloud backs up your iPhone once every 24 hours when the phone is connected to WiFi, power, and locked.

Can I back up my iPhone without iCloud?Show

Yes, you can back up to a computer using iTunes or Finder on a Mac instead of using iCloud.

What data does iCloud backup include?Show

iCloud backs up photos, videos, app data, messages, device settings, and home screen layout.

Do I lose my data if I stop paying for iCloud storage?Show

Your backups stop working. You have 30 days to download your data before it is deleted.

Written by the HowToDoStuff.online editorial team. Last updated May 18, 2026.