Transferring contacts from one iPhone to another is much easier than most users think, and you don’t need iCloud backup, third-party apps, or complicated tools. Apple already provides built-in options that allow you to transfer a single contact, all contacts, or even automatically sync contacts between two iPhones. Below are the most reliable and safe methods explained clearly so anyone can follow them without confusion.
Transfer a Single Contact from iPhone to iPhone (Using AirDrop)
This method is perfect if you want to share only one or a few contacts instantly.
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Open Contacts on your old iPhone and find the contact you want to transfer.
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Press and hold the contact name, then tap on Share Contact.
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Select AirDrop from the sharing options.
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Keep both iPhones close to each other and tap the target iPhone name.
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Accept the AirDrop request on the new iPhone, and the contact will be saved instantly.
Transfer All Contacts from iPhone to iPhone (Using AirDrop)
If you want to move all contacts without using iCloud backup, this method works efficiently.
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Open Contacts on the old iPhone.
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Press and hold All Contacts until the sharing option appears.
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Tap on Share, then select AirDrop.
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Place both iPhones near each other and choose the new iPhone from the AirDrop list.
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Accept the transfer on the new iPhone to receive all contacts at once.
Sync Contacts Automatically Using the Same Apple ID
This is the best long-term solution to keep contacts updated on both iPhones.
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Open Settings on the first iPhone and tap on your Apple ID.
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Go to iCloud, tap on See All, then turn ON Contacts.
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Repeat the same steps on the second iPhone using the same Apple ID.
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Keep both devices connected to the internet, and your contacts will sync and stay stored automatically.
Why These Methods Are Safe and Recommended
These methods use Apple’s official features like AirDrop and iCloud Sync, so your data remains secure, private, and free from third-party risks. They also work even if your new iPhone is already set up, making them ideal for quick contact transfers.
