Is iPhone Sync the Same as Backup?
Syncing process makes sure that your content (files and data) is the same on your iPhone iPad or iPod touch and computer. However, back up refers to, one way, copying of most data from one location to another. You may use iCloud and iTunes and you can back up most data on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch.

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Herein, is sync and backup the same thing?

Backing up means to manually or automatically copy files from one location to another, usually from one physical drive to another, although it could also be to an online location. Syncing means to manually or automatically copy or delete files as needed to ensure that two locations have an identical set of files.

Secondly, what does an iPhone backup include? Your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch backups only include information and settings stored on your device. They do not include information already stored in iCloud such as Contacts, Calendars, Bookmarks, Notes, Voice Memos3, Messages in iCloud, iCloud Photos, and shared photos.

Similarly, can you sync your iPhone without backing up?

Too many words in each post so I may be missing something, but if all you want to do is sync a song over to your iPhone from iTunes, without iTunes backing up your phone, simply turn off backup to iTunes when plugged in, in iTunes. There's no requirement to backup if you don't want to backup.

What does sync files mean?

File synchronization (file sync) is a method of keeping files that are stored in several different physical locations up to date. Cloud and storage vendors often offer software that helps with this process. It is also commonly used for backup and for mobile access to files.

Related Question Answers

What happens when you sync your iPhone?

iPhone works with iTunes work on syncing. That means that everytime you sync your device with iTunes, it replicates the data you select in your library to your device. If your laptop does not have the songs in the library and then you sync, then you will lose all the music on your device.

Do I need to sync my iPhone?

To put them on your iPhone, you'll need to sync with the iTunes desktop software, either using the white USB cable that came in the iPhone box or over Wi-Fi. So if you bought, say, “Toy Story” from the iTunes Store and it's on your Mac or PC, you'll need to sync with iTunes to transfer it to your iPhone.
James H. Sterling

James H. Sterling

Environmental Science & Climate Journalist

James Sterling reports on renewable energy developments, climate policy, ecological conservation, and green tech innovations around the globe.