5 Ways: How to Transfer Photos to iPhone 16/17 Plus/Pro (Max)/Air

Want to transfer photos to new iPhone 16/17 from iPhone or Android? Read on this guide to get 5 workable tools and detailed instructions on how to transfer photos to iPhone 16.

By @Kelsey Last Updated October 28, 2025

Getting Started with Your New iPhone 16/17

It's exciting to unbox a new iPhone 16/17 and enjoy new iPhone 16 features like Apple Intelligence, the new shoot button, larger battery capacity, and improved cooling system. When setting up your new device, transferring photos from your old iPhone becomes essential. This guide presents five effective methods for photo transfer between iPhones and other Apple devices.

Comparison: Photo Transfer Methods for iPhone 16/17

Method Best For Speed Requirements
FoneTool Selective & Complete Transfers Fastest USB Cable + Computer
iTunes Full Library Sync Medium USB + Computer
iCloud Wireless Automatic Sync Slow Wi-Fi + iCloud Storage
AirDrop Quick Small Transfers Fast Bluetooth + Wi-Fi
FoneTool App Cross-Platform Transfers Medium Wi-Fi Enabled

1# The Easiest Way to Transfer Photos to iPhone 16/17 from old iPhone

FoneTool, a powerful iPhone transfer tool, enables you to transfer data between iPhones and computer with no effort. 

FoneTool

This powerful iPhone data management tool is the best way to backup iPhone without iCloud or iTunes.

  • Transferring selective photos to new iPhone
  • Moving photos from different albums simultaneously
  • Transfer photos to new iPhone without erasing
  • Complete the photo transfer process quickly

Download FoneTool to your computer, and follow the simple steps to know how to transfer photos to iPhone 16/17 via FoneTool.

Step 1. Run FoneTool > Connect source iPhone > Tap Trust.

Step 2. Click Phone TransferiPhone to PC > Get Started.

Step 3. Check Photos only > Preview and select images > OK.

Step 4. Choose the destination in Transfer Settings > Start Transfer.

Step 5. Connect the new iPhone 16/17 to PC > Click PC to iPhone > Click Start Transfer to transfer selective photos to new iPhone 16/17.

✨ Additional Features:

2# How to Transfer Photos to iPhone 16/17 via iTunes

iTunes is not only a manager for the media files on your Apple devices, but also a powerful assistant to sync photos between iPhones. Here are photos you can follow.

Transfer Photos from Source iPhone to Computer

  • Windows: Connect iPhone > AutoPlay > Import Pictures and Videos > Select destination > Import

  • Mac: Connect iPhone > Open iPhoto > Select photos > Import Selected

Sync Photos from Computer to iPhone 16/17

Step 1. Keep connecting your new iPhone 16/17 to PC > Launch iTunes, > Click Device icon.

Step 2. Click Photos under Settings > Click Sync Photos > Choose source application/folder.

Step 3. Click Apply to start syncing photos from PC to your iPhone 16/17.

3# How to Transfer Photos from iPhone to iPhone 16/17 by iCloud

iCloud enables automatic photo synchronization across devices using the same Apple ID. Let's learn how to transfer photos to iPhone 16 without computer.

Step 1. On source iPhone: Go to the iPhone Settings > Tap [your name] > iCloud > Photos > Toggle on the switch next to iCloud Photos.

⚠️ Important: Ensure sufficient iCloud storage space for your entire photo library.

Step 2. On target iPhone: Enable iCloud Photos > Choose Optimize iPhone Storage or Download and Keep Originals.

Related Article: Optimize iPhone Storage vs Download and Keep Originals: A Full Guide

4# AirDrop Photos from iPhone to iPhone 16/17

To wirelessly transfer photos to new iPhone without iCloud, AirDrop provides quick, localized wireless transfers between iPhones using Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Here’s how to transfer photos to iPhone 16/17 from old iPhone via AirDrop.

Step 1. Both iPhones: Control Center > AirDrop > Contacts Only or Everyone.

Step 2. On source iPhone: Photos app > Select images > Share > AirDrop > Target device.

Step 3. On iPhone 16/17: Accept transfer > Photos save automatically.

5# How to Transfer Photos from Android to iPhone 16/17 via FoneTool App

FoneTool's mobile app enables wireless photo transfers between Android and iOS devices, here's show you how to transfer photos from Android to iPhone 16/17 via FoneTool app.

Step 1. Install FoneTool on both devices (Android APK / iOS App Store). Open both apps > Enable Wi-Fi (no connection required).

Step 2. On Android: Connect Device > Connect to iOS > Scan QR code with iPhone. 

Step 3. On Android: File Transfer > Photos > Select files > Send

Step 4. On iPhone 16/17, simply tap Confirm to receive photos from Android phone. 

Summary

This comprehensive guide covers five effective methods for transferring photos to your new iPhone 16/17. For selective control and maximum speed, FoneTool provides the optimal solution. Whether you prefer wired efficiency or wireless convenience, these methods ensure your precious memories safely reach your new device. Regular photo backups provide additional protection for your iPhone 16/17 data security.

FAQs on iPhone Photos Transfer