Can't transfer to iPhone 18 Pro Max says Data Transfer Cancelled and resets repeatedly

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Level 1

8 points

Can't transfer to iPhone 18 Pro Max says Data Transfer Cancelled and resets repeatedly

I can't transfer to my new iPhone 18 Pro Max. It keeps throwing an error saying data transfer cancelled and forces a reset. I'm coming from a 16 Pro Max which is on the latest (time of writing) 27.0. First attempt the 18 updated the OS. Second attempt got through all setup steps and then got the data fail. Third attempt exact same result. Wifi is not a problem, am using the transfer from phone option. Have never had this issue before. Can't use my brand new device, how frustrating and no I won't be restoring using iCloud, I don't use iCloud for many things so it's not an option I will use.

Posted on Sep 17, 2026 9:32 PM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

Ingo2711

Community+ 2026

Level 10

89,065 points

Sep 17, 2026 11:10 PM in response to jrdata2k

Creating a backup from your old iPhone on your computer and restoring your new iPhone 18 Pro Max is the only other option, if setting it up directly does not work, and you do not want to use an iCloud backup.

Restore your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch from a backup - Apple Support

Any VPN enabled on your old iPhone?

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Answer 2

Sep 18, 2026 9:05 AM in response to Adamtemp64

Hi, sorry for poor user experience. I’m sure Apple would want to hear about it.

Apple and Apple Support do not participate in the communities here. They only moderate our posts to insure all user guidelines are followed in regard to content and user behavior. Your comments will not be reviewed by Apple. Apple will make changes based partially on the feedback they receive through their official channel, linked below .

Product Feedback - Apple

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Answer 3

Sep 19, 2026 5:33 AM in response to Jeff Donald

I had a long chat with apple support so they are aware . Was told to deal with my network as it is a 66 mile round trip to an Apple Store but went to nearest o2 shop 30 mile round trip . Wish I had just gone direct to apple support! New phone arriving Monday .

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Answer 4

Sep 18, 2026 9:00 AM in response to jrdata2k

Just had to return a bricked 18 pro 512 and awaiting a replacement as none at the o2 store ! I spent 1 hour with apple on the phone trying to resolve this one very unhappy customer

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