Switching iPhone? Apps you need to watch out for
Many of you will get a new iPhone soon. Most apps transfer without issues using Apple’s migration tools, but there are important exceptions — especially apps that handle sensitive data or keep data only locally.
Problematic app types
- Banking and finance apps — often require reauthentication and may not restore app data due to security protections.
- Authenticator / 2FA apps (e.g., Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator) — these usually don’t migrate automatically. Export or reconfigure your 2FA keys before switching.
- Apps without cloud backups — if an app stores data only locally and provides no export, that data can be lost unless you make a manual backup.
Safe transfer checklist
- Back up your old iPhone. Use iCloud or an encrypted Finder/iTunes backup to preserve as much app data as possible. (Apple Support: Transfer to a new iPhone).
- Before starting, open sensitive apps and check export or account-transfer options (export 2FA QR codes or recovery codes; note banking apps’ re-login requirements).
- Use Quick Start or restore from iCloud/Finder backups for the migration. Quick Start generally moves most settings and data.
- After migration, re‑login and re‑verify accounts for banking apps, email, and other secure services.
- If you use an authenticator app, export/import your accounts (or set up 2FA again) to avoid losing access.
- For apps that don’t restore data, check whether the developer provides an export tool or cloud sync option.
Extra tips
- Create and keep recovery codes for 2FA-enabled accounts during the transfer process.
- Consider third-party migration tools only if you understand the risks; some can help extract app data that Apple’s tools miss.
- Contact app support if an app’s data didn’t transfer as expected.
Summary: Most apps move fine, but plan ahead for banking, authentication, and locally stored data. Back up first, export 2FA keys, and be ready to reauthenticate.
Useful links: Apple: Transfer to a new iPhone