iPhone Backup file’s small size on Macbook

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iPhone Backup file’s small size on Macbook

Hello

I want to keep my 256GB iPhone 13’s Backup at a MacBook Pro since I should transfer it to my new iPhone. (All updated last versions - MacOS Sequoia & iOS 18.3.2)

At first attempt; MacBook Finder showed as there were 109GB free space on ~250GB(?) iPhone. But it is actually 256GB~14GB free spaced (~240GB full) iPhone. And it backed up it as a 146GB file- 94GB less- as well.

(I am only using 6GB out of 50GB iCloud storage)

But when I connect it again to make sure; this time Finder shows 14GB (out of 256GB) free; just as my iPhone shows. I want another backup, and a minute later out of a sudden it is done backing up. With no changes in size.

So I deleted the backup first this time, then started downloading backup all over again; but even though the phone is 240GB full; Macbook Backup file size is saved as 146 GB again a missing 94GB…

How can I trust this process? What 94GB of data do I lose at this process? I would like to transfer it to my new iPhone but it can’t backup properly :/ Where/ What is this missing 94GB? What should I do?

Thank you

Bengi

iPhone 13, 18

Posted on Mar 19, 2025 1:19 AM

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Answer 1

Mar 19, 2025 3:50 AM in response to bengiiy

Data that you synchronize to iCloud normally is not also included in iCloud backups.

If you have a large Photus library on your iPhone, and are using iCloud Photos, maybe your photos are being saved to iCloud but not to device backup files on your Mac? Just a thought.

I believe that backups do not include purchased music. To restore music from your own CDs, you would presumably te-sync it from the master iTunes or Music library on your Mac or Windows PC.

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iPhone Backup file’s small size on Macbook

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