CNET has released an article discussing the importance of creating an archive backup of your iPhone’s data before installing the new iOS 18.1 operating system. The article highlights the risks of moving to a new software release without a backup in place, as there may be snags or issues that could arise during the upgrade process. With features such as text message improvements, enhancements in Apple Maps, and mirroring your iPhone from a Mac in MacOS Sequoia, iOS 18.1 offers several new benefits for users.
For those accustomed to using iCloud Backup for regular data backups, it is important to note that iCloud backups are not suitable for reverting back to previous versions of iOS. In the case of moving from iOS 17 to iOS 18, an iCloud Backup would not allow you to restore back to iOS 17. This is where creating an archive backup on your computer becomes essential. By archiving a backup on your computer, you can ensure that you have a fallback option if you need to revert back to a previous version of iOS.
When creating a local iPhone archive on your Mac or Windows computer, users have the option to encrypt the backup for added security. Encrypting the backup scrambles the data to prevent unauthorized access and preserves sensitive information such as saved passwords and personal data. However, it is important to remember the password for the encrypted backup, as forgetting it would render the backup useless. Creating an archive backup protects it from being overwritten by future backups or deleted due to low disk space.
For Mac users, creating an archive backup involves some disk space and patience, while Windows users can use the iTunes app as the main conduit for working with a connected iPhone. By following the steps outlined in the article, users can create a local iPhone archive on their computers, ensuring that their data is safe and protected. Having an archive backup in place allows users to install the iOS 18.1 update with peace of mind, knowing that they can easily revert back to a previous version if needed.
Overall, the importance of creating an archive backup before installing a new version of iOS cannot be overstated. With the risks and potential issues that can arise during an upgrade process, having a backup of your iPhone’s data is essential. By following the steps outlined in the article, users can create a local iPhone archive on their Mac or Windows computer, ensuring that their data is secure and protected. Whether you’re an early adopter of new software releases or prefer to wait for the first “dot-one” release, having a backup in place gives you the confidence to explore the new features and improvements that iOS 18.1 has to offer.
