Apple iPhones

The iCloud is a service that Apple provides for users to share and store photos, notes and other files using cloud computing via the internet. You can even store backups for your iPhone, iPad or iPod. Data stored via iCloud does not take up storage space in an iPhone or other devices because it's stored and accessed remotely via the internet. iCloud data is securely stored using encryption and two factor authentication (2FA) so it is only accessible by approved devices.

Access to the iCloud is built into each Apple device including the iPhone. Just create an Apple ID, sign in to your device and then find and select your name in the iPhone's settings, then select ‘iCloud’ and which apps to use iCloud with and which iCloud features need to be enabled per app. iCloud includes 5GB of ongoing free storage with additional storage and features available with an iCloud+ subscription.

The battery capacity of an iPhone varies depending on which model it is and how it's used. For general use most models stay charged for a day, with many models lasting for a day and a half up to two days off a single charge. The iPhone 15 Pro Max currently has the largest capacity battery and longest run times from a single charge.

Factors that can affect how quickly the battery drains are also worth keeping in mind when shopping for a new phone, as it may need to be used for more power intensive tasks. Keeping the screen running drains more battery than when it is screen is off, so we recommend keeping it off while listening to a podcast or music.

Having GPS running is another battery intensive feature so turn it on and off for quick location updates rather than leaving it running continuously. Different apps consume the battery at different rates and in general games use more power than video, which uses more than just audio.

Chances are if you’re shopping around for a new iPhone you have owned an older iPhone or Smart Phone before. After numerous years of using Phones there are likely to be photos, videos, files and other data to be kept while upgrading. iPhones offer a few different solutions whether upgrading from an older iPhone or Android device.

The easiest and quickest method is restoring a recent iCloud backup on the new iPhone. To ensure you have a recent backup go to the iCloud app's settings, search for ‘iCloud Backup’ and select ‘Back Up Now’. Making an encrypted backup on a MacBook or PC and restoring from that will keep apps, settings and preferences saving you from needing to sign in again or re-download manually.

If transferring from an Android smart phone, download the Move to iOS app from the Google Play Store. This app transfers the most important information from an old Android phone to a new iPhone.

Before deciding on a new iPhone it’s worth considering other devices at home. If you've owned an iPhone or other Apple products previously a new iPhone will likely be familiar. If you own or are considering an Apple Watch, then remember an iPhone is the only Smart Phone it works with.

Most people are tossing up between an iPhone or an Android phone. Apple’s iPhones are very well supported in terms of app development and in terms of Accessories and replacement parts. Android smart phones tend to only have accessories like protective Phone Cases available for medium to high end models.

Apple design the hardware and operating system for their products including the iPhone. Apple’s design philosophy values a streamlined and minimalist experience although this can also mean less customization. It is common for Android phone manufacturers and carriers to include unwanted apps pre-installed on your phone that can take up storage space and clutter the menu, but these are generally removeable or able to be disabled.