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How to Sync iPhone and iPad

Written by: Emma Morris

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How to Sync iPhone and iPad

Keep Your Devices in Harmony

Have you ever felt like you're juggling two lives with your iPhone and iPad?

Well, syncing both devices is the way to get them humming the same tune.

In this article, we'll show you how to sync your refurbished iPhone and refurbished Apple iPad seamlessly via iCloud and iTunes, and help you troubleshoot common issues.

So, stick around to learn more. Lets end the confusion now.

And afterwards, go take a look at UR.co.uk and view our range of cheap refurbished phones and tablets, all rigorously tested and comes with perks like a 12-month warranty and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Key Takeaways

  • Sync via iCloud for a wireless experience.
  • Use iTunes for a more hands-on approach.
  • Troubleshoot like a professional to resolve issues in a flash.
  • Tailor your sync to include only what matters to you.

The Importance of Syncing Your Apple Devices

The Apple ecosystem is designed to be one big, happy family. But if your iPhone and iPad aren't synced, it's like they're estranged.

Syncing lets you share everything from photos to apps between your iOS devices. Plus, it makes your life a whole lot easier.


Imagine you're snapping some fantastic sunset pictures on your iPhone. Wouldn't it be great to show them off on your iPad's larger screen? That's the magic of syncing.


You can have the same content, from app downloads to email accounts, on both your iPhone and iPad.


You just need to set it up once and enjoy a unified experience across various devices.

Sync via iCloud

iCloud could be your go-to option when it comes to syncing. It's the nerve centre of the Apple world, and here's how it works:

  • Sign in with your Apple ID on both your iPhone and iPad, then head over to the settings app.
  • Once you're there, navigate to iCloud settings.

This is where you can choose what to sync, from contacts to files stored in your iCloud account.


After this initial setup, you now have the liberty to access all your files from various iOS devices. No USB cable needed.


Just ensure you're connected to Wi-Fi for a smooth experience.

Sync via iTunes

iTunes, the grandfather of Apple software. While it might feel slightly outdated compared to iCloud, it does have its merits. To sync devices via iTunes, simply:

  • Connect your iPad to your computer and open iTunes. Spot that iPad icon in the upper left nook of your iTunes screen? Click it.
  • Tap on "Back Up Now" to store a copy of all your iPad data. Once completed, unplug your iPad and plug in your iPhone.
  • Now, click the iPhone icon in the same upper-left corner.
  • Choose "Restore Backup," pick the backup you just made from your iPad, and hit "Restore" to sync your iPhone and iPad together.

iTunes is your saviour if you have a Mac or Windows computer and want to transfer data between devices without an internet connection.


But remember, syncing via iTunes is a one-time affair. Unlike iCloud, which is always on and syncing in the background, iTunes only lets you sync both devices when you choose.

Troubleshooting Syncing Issues

Have you followed all the steps but still find yourself stuck?

Let's troubleshoot the most common issues that could mess with your sync.

Are You Logged In?

Double-check that you're signed in with the same Apple ID on both devices. You'd be surprised how often this simple oversight derails the entire process.


  • Navigate to the settings app and tap your name at the top; it should display your Apple ID.

If not, sign in and give syncing another shot.

WIFI Issues

A strong internet connection is the bread and butter of iCloud sync.

You could be left in a pickle without it.


  • Head over to settings, tap on Wi-Fi, and make sure you're connected.

If you notice other devices slowing down your network speed, consider hitting pause on their internet activities.


Caution: Using iPhone data for iCloud sync can take up all your data allowance. So, always double-check you're on Wi-Fi to avoid any nasty surprises by the time of your billing.

Sharing Certain Files and Content

Some files are meant to roam free across your devices, while others are a bit more territorial.

Let's get a handle on what can and can't be synced between your iPhone and iPad.

Your Apps

Every app you've ever downloaded is tied to your Apple ID.

That means you can share apps between your iPhone and iPad, no strings attached.

  • Just make sure you've enabled automatic downloads for app downloads in your settings.

That way, when you download a new app on your iPhone, it'll also pop up on your iPad wirelessly.

Storing and Retrieving Photos

If you're using iCloud Photos, your pictures can be accessible across your devices.

On your iPad, navigate to Settings, tap on your name, and select iCloud, then Photos.

  • If you're rocking iOS 16 or later, toggle on "Sync this [device]".

  • On iOS 15 or earlier? No problem—just activate "iCloud Photos".

This move syncs all your pictures and videos from your device's Photos app to iCloud.

Plus, all your iCloud-stored visuals will land on your device like a charm.

Pop open the Photos app and hit Library to view them.

E-mail and Contacts

Like your photos and apps, your email accounts and contacts can be in perfect harmony across your devices.

  • Just go into settings, tap on your Apple ID, and then choose iCloud.

  • From there, enable the toggles for Mail, Contacts, and Calendars.

You'll have the same information at your fingertips, whether you're tapping away on your iPhone or swiping on your iPad.

Want to know the ins and outs of your Apple devices? Check our guides on how old is my iPad and how do I get my emails back on my iPad to become an Apple expert today!

Mastering Storage Space

Alright, so you've got the sync game down. Now, let's talk about iCloud storage.

If you're going to sync data across various devices, you need to keep an eye on how much room you've got left in the cloud.

Navigating the Storage Labyrinth

Ah, the dreaded storage full alert—it feels like your digital closet's bursting at the seams.

Well, stroll over to your settings app, tap your Apple ID, and click on iCloud.


You'll spot a neat bar graph breaking down your storage habits.


Curious what's taking all that room? It'll tell you. All you need to do is make more room by deleting content that's taking up the most space.


If you're still feeling like a sardine in a can, you can always pay for extra iCloud storage. There's no need to delete those precious memories from your Apple devices.

Final Thoughts: How to Sync iPhone and iPad

Syncing your iPhone and iPad doesn't have to be a daunting task. Whether you opt for iCloud sync or a manual method via USB cable, you've got options.

We've also touched on troubleshooting common issues and storage management, so you're armed and ready for any sync scenario.

And hey, did you know that UR.co.uk plants a tree for every refurbished device sold? Come join our green journey today.


Now, go forth and sync like you've never synced before!

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Emma Morris


Emma crafts insightful and informative articles about refurbished phones for ur.co.uk. Her expertise guides readers in making the smartest choices for their tech needs.