Manual Backup vs Sync Backup

There is normally one rolling backup for each device. The initial backup will take some time. Subsequent backups will update the backup with recent changes. Automatic backups take place with the first sync on each calendar day. Media and apps are not included in the backups.

For more information see Create and delete iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch backups in iTunes - Apple Support.

tt2

As long as the apps and media are already in your library they can be restored. I made the distinction just in case you, or someone else reading the thread, is connecting to a new library/machine. Apps and iTunes Store purchases may be transferred into the current library but it is worth being aware that purchases and media from other sources are not actually backed up by the iOS backup process.

tt2

Look under Edit > Preferences > Devices. There is normally only one backup for each device. If/when you restore a backup to a device the current version of it is used for the restore, the backup set is archived with the date of the restore, and a new rolling backup for that device is created. Whether you refresh the backup manually or via the first sync of the day, the overall size of the backup won't vary much unless you have added lots of new data to the device that would be included. Note that if your device normally backs up to iCloud then it is only backed up to your computer if you instigate a backup manually.

tt2

You're welcome. 🙂

tt2