How to configure your new iPhone (2025)

A quick word on esim

Apple has supported ESIM technology from the iPhone XS. It is essentially an electronic SIM card instead of the small physical chip that you insert in your phone for cell connectivity. The iPhone 14 series was the first to completely get rid of the physical location of the SIM card (in the United States). This means that the only way to set up a cellular connection in the United States is with an ESIM.

If you are not familiar with the process, don’t worry, it’s very easy. During the configuration, you will be asked if you want to transfer your old iPhone number. Once you agree, it will take a minute or two to activate cellular data on your new iPhone, and you are ready to leave. Keep in mind that your old physical sim card will stop working once you do it.

If you come from an Android phone (with or without ESIM support), you will need to scan a QR code provided by your operator. This could even be the case with an iPhone if you encounter problems, simply contact your operator, and they should be able to settle things quickly. Some Android phones can support the ESIM transfer process easier, such as the Google Pixel 10 series.

Photography: Simon Hill

Adding other accounts and adjustment preferences

Otherwise, it is simply a question of personalizing your preferences. Do you want to add a messaging account? Go to Parameters,, Applications,, Email,, Messaging accountsand choose Add an account. Do you want to refine which applications will update in the background (and drain your battery in the process)? Go towards Parameters,, General,, Refreshment of the background applicationAnd rocks your little heart. Do you want to save time on web forms? Go to Parameters,, Applications,, Safari,, AutomaticallyAnd prefer your contact details. You can also activate the battery percentage view by going to Parameters, battery, and switch to Battery percentage.

Your new device will execute iOS 26, which has new important features, but you may consider changing these confidentiality parameters immediately.

A final recommendation: get rid of size. You can delete one of the many Apple stock applications you don’t want (including, of course, actions). Do it! It feels good, I promise it. We even have advice on the key settings of the iPhone to modify. Oh, and while you dig in Apple software, go to Parameters and then To focus To enjoy the Do not bother Mode that allows you to reduce the constant flow of alerts.

Hitting these bases should help you start on the right track. When you are installed, may see the shortcuts in apple. And if you have finished with your old iPhone, read our instructions on how to reset it in the factory.

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