I always thought that the automatic sync executed by iTunes was in fact an actual backup of my device either to iCloud or on my computer as specified.
Am I wrong about that ? What is the difference if there is one ?
iMac Line (2012 and Later)
See About backups for iOS devices - Apple Support for details of what is included in an iOS device backup. Typically if the device is configured to backup to iTunes the first sync of the day will also instigate a local backup. Syncing in iTunes is generally library to device, however purchased media, updated playlists, ratings, and play counts may flow in the other direction. Media and data that normally lives in the cloud isn't included in any device backup.
tt2
See About backups for iOS devices - Apple Support for details of what is included in an iOS device backup. Typically if the device is configured to backup to iTunes the first sync of the day will also instigate a local backup. Syncing in iTunes is generally library to device, however purchased media, updated playlists, ratings, and play counts may flow in the other direction. Media and data that normally lives in the cloud isn't included in any device backup.
tt2
Yes, if you're backing up to iTunes that will also a trigger a backup once per day. You can also start manually. If you're backing up to iCloud that will happen on its own schedule, not when you sync with iTunes.
tt2
So syncing actually also does the backup. This probably explains why the iTunes iOS window displays that you can select an «Automatic Backup» either to iCloud or to This computer.
I found the explanation of the difference on the web..
So syncing is only the transfer/sync of the some specific data (music, pictures, films, videos or books) between my computer and the iOS device while the backup is the actual saving of the main pieces of the content of my iOS device (while all other pieces will be downloaded when required) to allow a future restoration of my iOS device in case of a problem ?
Is my understanding correct ?
Difference between sync and backup for iOS devices ...
