Backing up your iPhone is an essential task to ensure the safety of your data. However, what do you do when your iPhone’s screen is broken, and you cannot access the device? In this blog post, we will explore the different options available to backup an iPhone with a broken black screen. We will provide step-by-step instructions for each method, along with their pros and cons. Additionally, we will discuss alternative solutions and their implications. Let’s dive in!
What’s Needed
- Computer (Windows or Mac)
- USB cable
- iTunes or Finder (for Mac users)
Video Tutorial:
What Requires Your Focus?
- Choosing the right method to backup your iPhone with a broken black screen
- Following the steps carefully to ensure a successful backup
- Considering alternative solutions in case the primary methods don’t work
Option 1. How to Backup iPhone with Broken Black Screen via iTunes
To backup your iPhone with a broken black screen using iTunes, follow these steps:
1. Connect your iPhone to the computer using a USB cable.
2. Launch iTunes if it doesn’t open automatically.
3. If prompted, enter the passcode on your iPhone. If the screen is completely unresponsive, move on to the next step.
4. Click on your iPhone icon in the iTunes interface.
5. Under the “Summary” tab, click on “Back Up Now” to initiate the backup process.
6. Wait for the backup to complete. The time required may vary depending on the size of your data.
7. Once the backup is finished, you can check its completion under the “Latest Backups” section.
Pros:
– iTunes allows you to create a complete and encrypted backup of your iPhone.
– It is a reliable method offered by Apple and is widely used.
– You can easily restore the backup to a new iPhone or recover individual files.
Cons:
– You need a working computer and a USB cable.
– iTunes can be slow and sometimes encounters errors during the backup process.
– The backup is not accessible directly to view or extract specific files.
Option 2. How to Backup iPhone with Broken Black Screen via Finder (for Mac users)
If you have a Mac computer with macOS Catalina or later, you can use Finder instead of iTunes to backup your iPhone. Follow these steps:
1. Connect your iPhone to the Mac using a USB cable.
2. Open Finder. You can do this by clicking on the Finder icon in the dock or by pressing Command + Space and searching for “Finder.”
3. In the Finder sidebar, under the “Locations” section, click on your iPhone’s name.
4. Click on the “Back Up Now” button in the General tab.
5. Wait for the backup process to complete. You can monitor the progress in the Finder window.
6. Once the backup is finished, you can verify it under the “Latest Backups” section in Finder.
Pros:
– The backup process is straightforward and similar to using iTunes.
– Finder allows you to create an encrypted backup for enhanced security.
– You can easily restore the backup or transfer it to a new device.
Cons:
– This method is only available for Mac users with macOS Catalina or later.
– Similar to iTunes, the backup process can be slow and may encounter errors.
– The backup is not directly accessible for viewing or extracting individual files.
Option 3. How to Backup iPhone with Broken Black Screen via Third-Party Software
If you prefer an alternative method to backup your iPhone with a broken black screen, you can use third-party software like iMobie AnyTrans or iMobie PhoneRescue. Here’s a general overview of the steps involved:
1. Download and install the third-party software on your computer.
2. Launch the software and connect your iPhone using a USB cable.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to enter Recovery Mode or DFU Mode on your iPhone, if required.
4. Once the software successfully recognizes your iPhone, locate the backup option and initiate the backup process.
5. Wait for the backup to complete and verify its success within the software’s interface.
Pros:
– Third-party software often provides additional features and flexibility compared to iTunes or Finder.
– Some software allows you to selectively backup specific files or data types.
– The software may offer faster and more reliable backup options.
Cons:
– You may need to purchase or subscribe to the third-party software for full functionality.
– Compatibility issues may arise with different iPhone models or software versions.
– The reliability and safety of third-party software may vary.
Option 4. How to Backup iPhone with Broken Black Screen via iCloud
If you had previously enabled iCloud backup on your iPhone and it is still functioning, you can use iCloud to backup your iPhone with a broken black screen. Here’s how:
1. On a computer or another iOS device, go to iCloud.com and sign in with your Apple ID.
2. Click on the “Find iPhone” option.
3. From the top menu, select “All Devices” and choose your iPhone from the list.
4. Click on the “Actions” button (a small circled “i”) next to your iPhone’s name.
5. In the pop-up menu, select “Erase iPhone” and confirm the action.
6. Wait for the erasing process to complete.
7. Set up your iPhone as a new device, and during the setup process, select the “Restore from iCloud Backup” option.
8. Sign in with your Apple ID and choose the desired backup from the list.
Pros:
– iCloud backup is convenient and automatic when enabled.
– You can access your iCloud backup from any compatible iOS device or computer.
– It offers a seamless restore process when setting up a new iPhone.
Cons:
– This method requires a working iCloud account and a stable internet connection.
– It may not be suitable if you have limited iCloud storage space.
– You will need to erase your iPhone, resulting in the loss of any unsaved data.
Why Can’t I Backup iPhone with a Broken Black Screen?
While the above options should work for most users, there may be cases where they are not viable. Here are three alternative solutions to consider:
1. Seek Professional Assistance: If you have valuable data on your iPhone and are unable to backup due to a broken black screen, consider taking your device to an authorized service center or an Apple Store. They may be able to retrieve the data or perform a repair that allows you to backup.
2. Use Third-Party Data Recovery Services: If your iPhone contains critical data and professional assistance is not accessible, you can explore third-party data recovery services. These companies specialize in recovering data from damaged or broken devices and may offer solutions tailored to your specific situation.
3. Contact Apple Support: Reach out to Apple Support for guidance on alternative methods or specific advice based on your device and circumstances. Apple’s support team can provide further assistance and suggest potential solutions.
Implications and Recommendations
- Regularly backing up your iPhone is crucial to prevent data loss in case of unforeseen circumstances.
- Consider using a cloud-based backup solution like iCloud in addition to local backups for added security.
- Ensure you have sufficient storage space on your computer or iCloud account to accommodate the backup.
The Bottom Line
While a broken black screen on your iPhone can be frustrating, there are several options available to backup your data. Whether you choose to use iTunes, Finder, third-party software, or iCloud, it’s essential to follow the steps carefully and be prepared for potential limitations. Always prioritize data backup to protect your valuable information and memories.
5 FAQs about How to Backup iPhone with Broken Black Screen
Q1: Can I backup my iPhone with a broken black screen wirelessly?
A: Unfortunately, wireless or over-the-air backups are not possible if your iPhone screen is broken and unresponsive. You will need to connect your iPhone to a computer to initiate the backup process.
Q2: Will backing up my broken iPhone erase its data?
A: If you follow the recommended backup methods, such as using iTunes, Finder, or iCloud, your data will not be erased during the backup process. However, some alternative solutions may involve erasing your device, resulting in data loss.
Q3: Can I backup my iPhone with a broken black screen without a computer?
A: No, backed up your iPhone with a broken black screen typically requires a computer or an alternative device with compatible software.
Q4: Is it possible to extract specific files from the backup created with a broken black screen?
A: Yes, you can extract specific files from the backup created with iTunes, Finder, or some third-party software. However, keep in mind that not all backup methods provide direct access to individual files.
Q5: Can I restore the backup to a new iPhone with a broken black screen?
A: Yes, you can restore the backup to a new iPhone with a broken black screen. Simply follow the setup process on the new device, select the backup, and sign in with your Apple ID.