First: Did You Restore from iCloud Backup During Setup?
When you first turned on your new iPhone 16 Plus, you should’ve seen this option:
Apps & Data
→ Restore from iCloud Backup
If you skipped that and just signed into iCloud afterward, then only syncable items like photos, contacts, notes, etc.will come through — not your app layout, settings, or message history.
How to Check If a Full Restore Happened:
- Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage
- Do you see a bunch of apps labeled “Waiting” or “Loading”?
- → That’s a sign it’s restoring from a backup.
- Go to Settings > [your name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup
- Tap on your device name.
- See if it says “This iPhone is currently restoring” — that's your progress tracker.
If You Didn't Restore Properly
If you didn’t do a full restore during setup, and want your home screen layout, app data, and settings back:
You’ll need to erase and start over:
- Back up anything new you’ve done on the new phone.
- Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings.
- During re-setup, choose:
- Restore from iCloud Backup
- Pick the correct backup from your old phone (check the date).
This will bring back:
- App layout
- Settings
- Messages (if Messages in iCloud is off)
- Photos, contacts, etc.
- About Progress Bars
Apple unfortunately doesn’t give a full master “restore progress” bar, but here are indicators:
- Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup → Will say “Restoring” if still in progress
- App icons grayed out or say “Waiting” → still downloading
- Photos may take hours to days to complete syncing depending on size
Final Tip: Be Patient
- Keep it plugged in and on Wi-Fi.
- Avoid using the device too heavily during the restore.
- Most iCloud restores take a few hours, but app re-downloads and Photos syncing may take longer, especially for large libraries.
