How to Delete iOS Backups in iTunes or Finder on macOS

Deleting outdated or unnecessary iOS backups can free up space on your computer and simplify your device management. This guide provides detailed instructions on how to manage and delete iOS backups using both iTunes and the Finder on macOS.

Deleting iOS Backups via iTunes on Windows or Older macOS Systems

If you are using a Windows operating system or an older version of macOS, you can use iTunes to manage your device backups. Follow these steps:

Connect your iPhone to your computer: Ensure your iPhone is plugged into your computer using a USB cable. Open iTunes (if using Windows) or Finder (if on macOS): Launch the iTunes application on Windows or open the Finder application on macOS. Select the iPhone in the device list: On the left side of the screen, you should see a list of devices. Click on your iPhone to access its settings. Manage Backups: Click on the 'Manage Backups' option. This will show you a list of all backups associated with your device, along with their dates. Select the backup you want to delete: Once the list of backups is displayed, select the backup that you no longer need. Delete the backup: After selecting the backup, click on the 'Delete Backup' button. A confirmation dialog may appear; click 'OK' if you are sure you want to delete the backup.

Deleting iOS Backups via macOS Finder on Catalina or Later Systems

For macOS Catalina and later, the process is slightly different, as Finder manages the backups by default.

Connect your iPhone to your computer: Plug your iPhone into your Mac using a USB cable. Finder Window: Once your iPhone is connected, open a Finder window and you should see your iPhone’s icon in the sidebar. Click on the iPhone’s name: Click on the name of your iPhone in the sidebar to access its settings. Manage Backups: After a short delay, you will see the 'Set Up' tabs for syncing and backup. Look for the 'General' tab (the first one), and you will see the 'Manage Backups...' button. Delete the backup: Click on the 'Manage Backups...' button to view the list of backups. Select the backup you want to delete and then click on the 'Delete Backup' button. Confirm the action if prompted.

Deleting iOS Backups via iTunes Preferences on Older macOS Systems

For older versions of macOS, you need to use iTunes to manage your backups.

Open iTunes: Launch the iTunes application on your Mac. Select Preferences: Go to the 'Edit' menu and select 'Preferences'. Select the Devices tab: In the preferences window, select the 'Devices' tab. Delete the backup: Under 'iTunes backup', select the backup you want to delete and then click the 'Delete Backup' button. Confirm the action if prompted.

Note that these steps assume the backup was made using iTunes or a similar software. If the backup was made with another application, the process may differ. Refer to the application documentation for specific instructions.

Conclusion

Managing and deleting iOS backups is an essential aspect of device and computer maintenance. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily delete old backups and reclaim valuable storage space on your computer. Keep in mind that deleting backups will remove the full backup of your device, so make sure to back up any important data before proceeding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I restore my device from a backup after I delete it?

Yes, you can restore your device from a previous backup after deleting it. However, the new backup created after you restore your device will replace the deleted backup.

Q2: Can I delete backups on my iPhone directly?

No, you cannot delete backups directly from your iPhone. You must delete them via iTunes or the Finder on a computer connected to your iPhone.

Q3: Does deleting a backup also delete my data from the device?

No, deleting a backup does not delete any data from your device. The backup is just a copy of the data stored on your device. The data on your device remains intact.