How to Fix iPhone Stuck on Preparing to Transfer

What happens if you’re eager to configure your new iPhone but it becomes stuck on “Preparing to Transfer” while relocating data? This issue can disrupt a smooth transition, leaving users without access to essential apps, files, or contacts, and causing anxiety, especially for those who rely on their phone for work or communication. Fortunately, there are five simple methods to resolve the issue. Let’s explore!

Also Read: How to Transfer Data to New iPhone [Easy & Safe]

Why Is My iPhone Stuck on Preparing to Transfer?

Your iPhone may get stuck on “Preparing to Transfer” during a data move. This can happen due to different reasons. Let’s look at the common causes:

• Weak Wi-Fi connection— An unstable or poor Wi-Fi connection can disrupt the data transfer process and cause it to get stuck.
• Temporary system glitches— Minor glitches or bugs in the operating system can cause the process to freeze unexpectedly.
• Outdated iOS versions— Using older iOS versions can lead to compatibility issues, stopping the transfer.
• Insufficient storage on the new iPhone— If the new iPhone doesn’t have enough free space, the transfer cannot proceed.
• Devices are too far apart— If the two iPhones are not close enough, the transfer may fail to complete smoothly.

How to Fix iPhone Stuck on Preparing to Transfer?

These are several practical solutions to address this issue. With a few simple steps, you can resolve the problem and complete your data transfer seamlessly. Now, let’s explore the best methods to fix iPhone stuck on preparing to transfer:

Method 1. Check Wi-Fi Connection

A strong and stable Wi-Fi connection is essential for smooth data transfer between iPhones. Weak or fluctuating signals can interrupt the process, leaving it stuck. Ensure your Wi-Fi network works well and avoid switching to cellular data during the transfer. To check Wi-Fi:

Step 1. Go to “Settings” on both iPhones.

Step 2. Tap “Wi-Fi” and ensure both devices are connected to the same stable network.

Method 2. Keep Devices Near Each Other

Keeping both iPhones close ensures uninterrupted data transfer. However, connectivity problems caused by a large distance between the devices may delay the process. For optimal effects, arrange them within a few inches of one another. This simple step can often resolve the problem quickly.

Method 3. Restart Your iPhone

Restarting your iPhone can resolve minor system bugs that may cause the problem. Clearing out temporary faults and refreshing the system facilitates a more seamless transfer. For restarting:

Step 1. Press and hold the Power + Volume down buttons until the slider appears.

Step 2. Slide to power off your iPhone.

Step 3. Wait a few seconds, then press the Power button again to restart.

Method 4. Make Sure Both iPhones Run iOS 17/18

Using the latest iOS versions ensures compatibility and fewer bugs during the transfer. Older software may not support certain features, causing delays. To check this:

Step 1. Open “Settings” on both iPhones.

Step 2. Go to “General” > “Software Update.”

Step 3. If an update is available, tap “Update Now.”

Method 5. AnyFix – The Highest Success Rate Way

If your iPhone is stuck on “Preparing to Transfer,” AnyFix offers the perfect solution through its System Repair feature. The tool is designed to solve system-level issues interrupting data transfer, ensuring a smooth and reliable resolution for any such problem.  The powerful System Repair feature stands out for effectively resolving over 150 iOS system-related problems, including scenarios where iPhones freeze during transfer, get stuck on loading screens, or experience boot loops. AnyFix comes packed with three repair modes—Standard, Advanced, and Ultimate and you can select the one depending on the severity of the situation. Whether you’re facing minor operating system glitches or more complex malfunctions, the tool requires no technical skills and can easily fix your device while preserving your data.

Key Features of AnyFix:

• Resolve over 150 iOS-related issues on iPhone, iPad, iPod, and Apple TV while maintaining data integrity.
• Quickly fix iOS system problems, including boot loop, stuck on Apple logo, disabled screen, and many more.
• You can instantly repair iOS system issues with just one click – press the Repair button and boom.
• Advanced iOS system repair technologies to ensure a high success rate in fixing iPhone issues.

Here are the simple steps to use AnyFix:

Step 1. Download and install AnyFix on your computer.

Step 2. Open AnyFix and select the “System Repair” mode.

Step 3. Choose “Screen Stuck” as the issue, and click “Start Now.”

Step 4. Select the “Standard Repair” option and click the “Standard Repair” button.

Step 5. Wait to disconnect your device until the process is complete. Once finished, you’ll see the “Repair Completed” page.

Bonus tips: How to Avoid iPhone Stuck on Preparing to Transfer?

If you want an easier way to transfer data, AnyTrans is the most efficient way to do this between Android phones, iPhones, and other devices. Its usage is of utmost importance when changing the iPhone. For instance, AnyTrans makes transfer easy for all the files, such as contacts, music, images, and custom ringtones, by making the process simpler and easier. The process will not cause any stress due to data loss since it allows instant and easy transfer of large-sized data. AnyTrans provides a simple, dependable solution for all your data transfer requirements, regardless of whether you’re switching from an outdated iPhone or Android phone.

Key Features of AnyTrans:

• Transfer contacts, photos, videos, and more to a new iPhone easily.
• Move apps from old iPhone to new iPhone in one click.
• Switch from Android to iPhone without any hassle.
• No data loss; keeps existing data safe during transfer.
• Works on iPhones with iOS 5 or higher, including iOS 18.

Here are the basic steps to use AnyTrans to avoid this issue:

Step 1. Download and open AnyTrans on your computer. Connect both phones via USB.

Step 2. In AnyTrans, choose “Phone Switcher” > Select “Phone to iPhone” > Tap “Migrate Now.”

Step 3. Select your source and target devices, then click “Next.”

Step 4. Click “Next” to begin after selecting the data categories you wish to move.

Conclusion

Do not worry if your iPhone gets stuck on “Preparing to Transfer” because there are several alternatives that you can apply. Restarting your iPhone, keeping devices close, checking Wi-Fi, updating your iOS version, and using AnyFix. One highly recommended method is using AnyFix, which effectively resolves issues like iPhones stuck on “Preparing to Transfer.” This tool can fix the iPhone stuck problem without data loss, ensuring your data transfer process runs smoothly. Free Download AnyFix now!