How-tos

Our collection of guides, how-tos and tutorials.

iOS data recovery & transfer

How to download or transfer iPhone and iCloud Photos

If you've got photos or videos on your iPhone and need to get them copied off, or if you want to download your iCloud photos, this guide will help.

How to remove a Screen Time passcode on iOS 14

Lost your iPhone or iPad's Screen Time passcode? See how to remove it without having to reset your device.

How to recover data from an iPhone or iPad backup

Learn how to view, edit, export, modify and recover lost and deleted files from an iPhone or iPad backup.

How to export and transfer iPhone contacts

Accidentally deleted an important contact, or want to transfer iPhone contacts to another iPhone or device? This guide walks you through exporting, transferring and restoring contacts between devices.

How to recover deleted text messages from an iPhone

Hit delete and wish you hadn’t? This guide takes you through the steps to recover deleted texts, iMessages, and attachments from your iPhone.

How to recover deleted photos from an iPhone or iPad

This guide gives you seven different methods for recovering photos or videos that have been deleted from an iOS device, such as an iPhone or iPad. We’ve started with the simplest (and free!) approaches, to save you time.

How to download iCloud photos, messages and backups

Learn how to download, extract and recover data from an iCloud backup. A complete guide to iCloud data recovery.

How to recover Viber messages & contacts from an iPhone

An easy step-by-step guide to recover deleted or lost iPhone Viber messages and contacts.

How to transfer or recover deleted WhatsApp messages

Our comprehensive guide for recovering or transferring WhatsApp messages and attachments.

How to export & view iPhone location data

A short guide showing how to view your iPhone's tracked location history.

How transfer game data & saves to your iPhone or iPad

Restoring data like saved games or hi-scores back onto your iPhone or iPad for Angry Birds and other apps is easy with help from iPhone Backup Extractor.

How to recover deleted Safari browser history and bookmarks

We guide you through examining your Safari search history and bookmarks. It's easily possible to view history that has since been deleted.

How to recover Kik messages from an iPhone

Recover deleted or lost Kik messages and attachments by following the easy steps in this guide.

How to save Instagram photos & messages

Our straightforward guide on how to save Instagram photos or messages from an iPhone or iPad.

How to recover Hike, Line, WeChat messages

Lost important messages from Hike, Line, WeChat or other messaging apps? Read on to find out few easy steps to download and recover them from your iCloud or iPhone backup data

How to export and transfer an iPhone or iPad calendar

This article guides you through exporting your iPhone or iPad's calendar data, capturing all calendar events from iCloud and elsewhere, and providing them in a simple iCal or CSV file.

How to recover data from a water damaged iPhone

Steps on how to recover data from a water damaged iPhone, and the methods you should avoid to protect your iPhone from further damage.

How to recover lost or deleted Notes from iPhone or iPad

How to recover lost or deleted notes from iPhone, iPod or iPad? Use our step by step tutorial and get all your notes back.

iOS backup & restore

How to back up an iPhone — three simple ways

Backing up your iPhone or iPad is simple and free. This article takes you through 3 methods for backing up using iTunes, Finder and iPhone Backup Extractor.

How to recover a lost iPhone backup password — 5 ways

There are a few ways to recover a lost iOS backup password. It can be done with a settings reset (which won't delete your data!), from a paired machine's keychain, or with an iCloud backup. Read on for more details, and some tips on remembering lost passwords.

How to fix “iPhone Backup Failed” & free up iCloud storage

Running low on iCloud storage and getting “iPhone Backup failed” message on your phone? We've rounded up all of the approaches to free up more space.

How to install, upgrade and downgrade iOS (including betas)

This guide takes you through how to update iOS on your iPhone or iPad. It covers updating to beta versions, downgrading again, how to do this safely, and how to recover your data if it goes wrong.

How to update an iPhone without backing up

If you update iOS on your iPhone using iTunes, you'll find it insists on updating your iTunes backup before it does so, overwriting your latest unarchived iOS backup. We show you how to prevent that.

How to disable automatic iTunes backups

When you sync your iPhone or iPad with iTunes, it triggers an automatic backup. Whilst it's a sensible precaution to backup regularly, it is possible to skip iTunes backups. We'll show you how.

What is stored in an iPhone or iCloud backup?

This article gives a clear explanation of what is and isn't stored in iPhone and iCloud backups, and the factors that ensure more or less is stored in your backup.

How to repair a corrupt iTunes backup or SQLite file

Every now and then, iTunes backups may turn out to be corrupt. Error messages shown in iTunes for a corrupt backup can vary depending on the main issue, sometimes without giving many clues on the real problem.

Where does iTunes store iOS backups?

On both Windows and macOS, iOS backups are stored in a MobileSync folder.

How to change the iTunes backup location

The default iTunes backup location is set to the PC or Mac's primary disk, and in macOS 10.15, iOS backups as created by Finder are stored in the same place. Users often want to change this when they run low on disk space. This article shows you how.

What does “iPhone Not Backed Up” mean, and how can I fix it?

A short explanation on the cause of the “iPhone Not Backed Up” alert, and guidance on how to fix it.

How to enable access to iPhone backups on macOS

Apple introduced a number of important security mechanisms with the release of macOS Mojave. This mechanism ensures that there's user consent for those files to be accessed, and protects against rogue programs or malware accessing them.

How to find Apple Watch backups when changing Watch

Losing one’s Apple Watch settings and data can be a pain, and I’ve found with replacement devices it’s sometimes not obvious how to restore your Watch, as the previous Watch’s backups don’t appear.

How to access an Apple Watch backup in three simple steps

Lost vital health or fitness data from your Apple Watch? Overwritten Apple Watch data from and need it back? This article walks you through accessing the data in your Apple Watch (iWatch) backup in 3 speedy steps, using iPhone Backup Extractor and a computer.

iPhone backup & restore FAQ

With over a decade's experience helping with iPhone and iPad backups, we've rounded up some of our top tips.

How to restore an iOS backup to an earlier version of iOS

If you find yourself needing to restore a backup from a device with a newer version of iOS than the target device, you'll need to be aware that restoring a newer backup to a downgraded iOS device isn't possible without a few tweaks. If you try without, you'll see this message:

How to speed up a slow iPhone backup or iCloud backup

Here are a few tips to help speed up your iPhone or iPad's backup. Say goodbye to hours of waiting for your backup process to complete.

How do apps store data in iPhone backups: filenames and hashes

This article will help you find files belonging to a particular app inside an iPhone backup. It'll also help you build a better understanding of how files and folders are arranged on iOS. Find out what each of the files in your iPhone backup contains: which file has your contacts, which one has your notes, etc. See which files are present between iOS versions and what they contain.

iOS tips & troubleshooting

How to print text messages for use as evidence

We review the most important things you need to do when saving text messages as proof -- and guide you through how to do it. It's important to get this right for evidence to be usable.

iPhone storage full? How to free space by removing “Documents & Data”

iPhone running low on space, or getting the ‘Storage almost full’ message? We show you how to free up space by removing documents and data, and other data-saving tips.

How to unlock Apple Watch ECG functionality

This guide describes how to unlock the ECG app and functionality on an Apple Watch.

How to download & run iOS apps on a Mac

With the release of Apple's new M1 chipset Macs, it's possible to run iOS apps on your computer. There are a few ways to do this, and we guide you through the easiest.

How to import iPhone contacts

A guide to importing contacts directly onto your iPhone, iPod Touch or iPad. Includes advice for VCard, VCF and CSV formatted contacts.

How to import to Android

It's possible to easily import much of the data from your iPhone or iPad to an Android device, and the process differs according to the type of data.

iCloud FAQ

We've rounded up the most frequently asked questions on making the most of iCloud here.

Solutions to common iPhone problems & error codes

We've rounded up our tips to solve common iPhone problems & errors below.

How to view HEIC files on Windows

Apple devices encode some photos and videos in High Efficient Image Format, which Windows is unable to read by default. These files typically have the .heif, .heic, or .hevc file extensions. It's simple (and free) to add support for these files to your Windows PC.

Pro webcam tips

How to look your best on a video call

Taking a few simple steps to improve the quality of your calls, most of which can be done for free, lifts you above everyone else’s expectations.

Why webcams aren’t good enough

There are no good webcams. Why? And what can we use instead? This article compares the most popular webcam options (such as the Brio, the Kiyo, and the C920) to better alternatives.

How to mount an iPhone webcam: which mount is best

So, you're thinking about using your phone or tablet as a webcam. You've probably got a cable. We hope you've got Camo. And maybe you need a mount or a stand. I bought just about every type of stand on the market, and even tried constructing some makeshift ones from things I had around the house. In this guide, I'm going to run through which ones might work for you, and why.

Video call quality: webcam vs iPhone vs DSLR

Our detailed quality comparison and benchmark of image quality between common webcams, iPhone cameras, and DSLRs.

How to use iOS Shortcuts to launch ‘Camo Mode’

We've put together a guide to walk you through using Shortcuts on iOS to get the most out of Camo, so your iPhone can switch between personal phone and webcam smoothly.

How to use your iPhone as a webcam

Want to use your iPhone as a webcam? The good news is it’s quick, easy, and free to do just that. In this article, we're outlining the two best ways to start using your iPhone as a webcam today.

Webcam troubleshooting

How to improvise a DIY webcam

You need to join a video call, but you don’t have a webcam, your webcam’s broken, or Amazon’s out of stock. What to do? This guide will take you through a number of different ways to improvise a home-made DIY webcam using things you might already have.

Webcam not working? How to fix your camera

Having webcam issues and need to fix it for your video call? This guide walks you through fixes for internal and external webcams on Windows and Mac computers.

How to change webcam video source in webapps that don't support it

Using a web-based video app that doesn't let you choose between webcam video sources? Here's a workaround to switch yours.

Data recovery for abandoned iOS apps

How to access files from discontinued or unavailable iOS apps

Each new version of iOS and new release of Apple hardware can result in apps being left behind, and no longer working on recent devices. In particular, there are some common causes for this:

How to recover Momento data from an iPhone

How to recover Goodreader data from an iPhone

Recover lost Goodreader data following the iOS 11 upgrade.

How to recover HiDisk Pro data from an iPhone

Recover lost HiDisk Pro data following an iOS 11 upgrade.

How to recover HiFolder data from an iPhone

Recover lost HiFolder data following the iOS 11 upgrade.

How to recover iReconcile data from an iPhone

Recover lost iReconcile data following the iOS 11 upgrade.

How to recover Notebooks 6 data from an iPhone

Recover lost Notebooks 6 data following the iOS 11 upgrade.

How to recover Pic Lock 3 data from an iPhone

Recover lost Pic Lock 3 data following an iOS upgrade.

How to recover SafeNote data from an iPhone

Recover lost SafeNote data following an iOS upgrade.

How to recover St@sh data from an iPhone

Recover lost St@sh data following an iOS upgrade.

How to recover iDo Notepad data from an iPhone

iDo Notepad (Diary/Journal) by Neil Thomas, is a simple-to-use notepad application, written specifically for the iPad & iPhone/iPod Touch.

iOS security & forensics

How to protect your iPhone, Photos, & iCloud account

Learn about the most important steps to take to keep your iCloud account safe, and protect your iPhone and iPad's data from hacking attempts. A complete guide to your iPhone's security settings.

What to do if your iPhone or iCloud gets hacked

Concerned someone has accessed your data or accounts without your permission? We take you through to steps you need to regain control and secure your data.

How to query data from iPhone backup SQLite and Plist files

Some users may wish to directly manipulate the raw files stored in their backups using expert mode. These are often comprised of SQLite database (.sqlite3, .sqllitedb and .db) or Plist (usually .plist) files.

Resources to learn more about iOS forensics & data recovery

Our roundup of the top resources to learn more about iOS forensics and data recovery.

What causes “Apple ID has been locked for security reasons”?

Apple automatically lock iCloud accounts and Apple IDs that they believe are at risk of unauthorised access, and this locking is partly triggered by what they perceive may be unusual user activity. What does this mean for you?

Which sunglasses block Face ID and how to fix it

The iPhone’s Face ID technology is great when it works, but it's frustrating when some sunglasses block it from working. There's been quite a bit of speculation as to the cause, and whether polarisation is a factor.

How to secure iPhone data with pair locking and supervision

Learn how to secure and keep your iPhone or iPad data safe with pair locking, preventing it from being accessed by any other computer.

How to access iPhone files with a disk mount

A comprehensive look at the different approaches for mounting your iPhone or iPad on a disk on your PC or Mac -- without needing to buy anything.

Working with Mac files on Windows

How to open an IPA file on Windows

Trying to open an iOS app with a .IPA extension on Windows? Here's how to open and access all files in an IPA archive.

How to open DMG files on Windows

Downloaded a DMG file but your Windows PC can't open it? This short guide shows you how to do it for free using DMG Extractor.

How to extract & run macOS on a Windows PC

Our short guide to running macOS on a Windows PC, and the different approaches available: virtualisation or using a Hackintosh.

How to extract IPSW files from an iOS beta DMG on Windows

Apple distributes iOS firmware in IPSW and DMG files. If you're a Windows user looking to open or explore these files, this is the guide to use.

BlackBerry backup & data recovery

How to read IPD & BBB BlackBerry backups

Our short guide on how to extract the information stored in IPD backup files by BlackBerry Desktop Manager, using the BlackBerry Backup Extractor in four simple steps.

Resources to learn more about BlackBerry forensics and data recovery

Our roundup of the top resources to learn more about BlackBerry forensics and data recovery.

How to back up your BlackBerry

Problems backing up your BlackBerry Z10? Learn how to backup and restore and how to outsmart some of the issues that can arise. See why your contact groups can cause trouble and how to restore contacts with your BlackBerry ID!

How to fix errors when restoring BlackBerry backups in Desktop Manager

Getting an error when restoring data to your BlackBerry via BlackBerry Desktop Manager? See why it's happening -- and how BlackBerry Backup Extractor can help you!

Opening BlackBerry 10 backups

Help us understand how interested are you in opening a BlackBerry 10 backup. Is this a feature you would like to see implemented in the BlackBerry Backup Extractor?

How to import & export BlackBerry data to Outlook, Gmail, Android & more

Our comprehensive guide on importing and exporting BlackBerry data in all its forms. We cover iOS, Android, Google Mail, and other platforms.

Where does BlackBerry Desktop Manager store its backups?

Under newer versions of Windows such as 10, 8, 7 and Vista, BlackBerry Desktop Manager will store backups in \Users\USERNAME\Documents\BlackBerry.

How to install OS 6 on the BlackBerry Bold 9700

Our guide on upgrading from BlackBerry OS 5 to the new BlackBerry OS version 6. Don't forget to take a backup first!

PBX call data

How to extract log files from a Nortel BCM telephone system

A simple guide to how to extract call detail recording log files from a Nortel BCM system, using our call detail recording software for Nortel/Avaya BCM telecoms systems.

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