Free | Transfer Text Messages from iPhone to Computer [Update]
In this article, you can learn how to transfer text messages from iPhone to computer for free, using FoneTool, iTunes, or iMessages.
The Messages app contains many text conversations, photos, videos, and other attachments. Learn how to transfer text messages from iPhone to computer for free is important to preserve memories, record important conversations, or free up storage space on your device.
If you want to save text messages from iPhone to computer, whether you use a Windows PC or Mac, in this article you will find free methods that will suit your needs.
| Method | Speed | Ease of Use | Compatible Devices | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🏆FoneTool | Fast | Very Easy | Windows PC | Easy, secure, and fast transfer with selectively/full backup options |
| 📙iTunes | Moderate | Moderate | Windows PC, Mac | Built-in, but limited in transferring only as part of a backup |
| 📘iMessages | Moderate | Easy | Mac | Convenient for Mac users, Sync with iCloud |
Way 1. How to Transfer Text Messages from iPhone to PC for Free
If you are looking for an easy-to-use and efficient way to transfer text messages from iPhone to computer for free, then FoneTool is the ideal choice for you. This tool supports you to quickly and safely transfer text messages from iPhone to computer, or from computer to iPhone.
Unlike iTunes, FoneTool allows you to select messages and save only the ones you want, and then you can view iPhone messages on computer directly.
- Selective Transfer: You can preview and select the exact messages you want to transfer without backup the entire device.
- Simple Interface: The interface is simple and easy to understand, even first-time users can use the tool easily.
- Quick Transfer: The transfer can be completed in just a few clicks, saving your time.
- No Data Loss: Existing messages will not be overwritten or lost during the transfer process.
- Wide Compatibility: FoneTool is compatible with various Windows, iPhone/iPad/iPod devices.
Windows 11/10/8/8.1/7
100% Secure
Now, download FoneTool and follow the easy guide to learn how to download text messages from iPhone to computer free.
Step 1. Connect your iPhone to computer with a USB cable > Run FoneTool > Go to Phone Backup > Choose Selective Backup and tap Get Start.
Step 2. Click Messages icon > Preview and choose the messages you want to transfer. Or you can check the Select All button to export all text messages at once > Tap OK to confirm.
Tip: FoneTool aslo support you backup photos, music, videos, contacts from iPhone to PC.Step 3. Set a storage path to save your messages on your computer > Tap Start Backup to transfer messages from iPhone to computer.
When you need to transfer messages to iPhone, just connect the iPhone to computer > Go to the My Backups screen > Tap the Restore option. Then you can choose the Messages icon to restore old messages to your iPhone without data loss.
By the way, as a professional iOS data management tool, FoneTool not only has the backup function, but also supports you to transfer iPhone data to iPhone/iPad/PC and vice versa. For example, you can transfer ringtones from computer to iPhone with ease!
Way 2. How to Transfer Messages from iPhone to Computer via iTunes
iTunes is the built-in solution for iPhone users. It can create a complete backup of your iPhone on your computer, which includes your text messages. However, it does not offer the ability to selectively transfer text messages, nor can you view the exact contents of the messages on your computer. You need to restore the backup to your iPhone before you can view them.
Here is the guide to learn how to transfer messages from iPhone to computer for free:
Step 1. Connect your iPhone to your Windows or Mac computer > Download and launch iTunes > Tap Trust the computer on your iPhone.
Step 2. When iTunes recognized your iPhone > Tap the Device tab > Summary > This Computer > Click Back Up Now.
Once iTunes completes the backup process, the backup will contain all the text messages and other data on your iPhone. You can restore an iTunes backup to your device whenever needed.
Tip: Don’t know where is iPhone backup stored on PC, you can go to this guide to check the detailed information.Way 3. How to Export iPhone Messages to Computer by iMessages (Mac)
For Mac users, another way to perform how to export text messages from iPhone is to enable iMessage on Mac. First, ensure you open iCloud > Message on your iPhone. Once done, your messages and conversations will automatically sync to the Messages app on your Mac.
- Notes:✎...
- This method is different from transferring messages using tools like FoneTool or iTunes. If you delete messages from your iOS device that have been synced to your Mac, they will be deleted from both devices.
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If your goal is to backup iPhone messages, it is recommended to use the other methods mentioned above; However, for syncing messages across devices, iMessage is a suitable choice.
Check the guide to learn how to copy text messages from iPhone to computer:
Step 1. On your iPhone, open Settings > Tap on your Apple ID > iCloud > Enable Messages. This will sync your messages to iCloud.
Step 2. Find t and launch Messages app on your Mac > Log in with the same Apple ID you used on your iPhone.
Step 3. After that, your messages will be synced from iPhone to the Mac automatically.
Conclusion
That’s all about how to transfer text messages from iPhone to computer for free. The article above mentions 3 methods to choose from. FoneTool is the most versatile and user-friendly option, offering selective backup and easy data management. iTunes is a solid built-in option but lacks the flexibility to transfer only specific messages, while iMessages offers a simple solution for Mac users, although it may not be suitable for large-scale transfers.
Choose the method that works best for you to backup and transfer your iPhone messages to your computer. Download FoneTool to have a try!
FoneTool - All-in-one iPhone Data Manager
Transfer, backup and manage data on iPhone, iPad and iPod touch in an easy way.
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iOS 18 Compatible
iPhone 16 Supported
Windows 11/10/8/8.1/7
100% Secure
Clara is an editor of FoneTool, she helps people with issues related to the area of iPhone, including iPhone data backup & restore & transfer & erase and so on. Helping people solute to their problems makes her happy. She loves her family and enjoys going to the movies.
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