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Get ready for iPhone 12 now, instead of waiting until the last minute.
Angela Lang / CNET
It’s October and Apple is entering uncharted territory without having announced a new iPhone until now. Normally Apple announces new iPhone models in September, but this year things are different. Now we wait for Apple to announce the iPhone 12 October 13 or October 14 (this is why). The delay is not really a surprise, since Apple has said this year’s release date it will be a few weeks later than usual.
Current Rumors point to several new iPhone 12 models, maybe even a iPhone 12 Mini, with a new design (a dark blue color?), 5G connectivity and improved performance.
With this year’s launch getting closer and closer, it’s not too early to get your phone ready now if you plan to upgrade. Here are some steps you can and should take today to get ready for the iPhone 12 or any new iPhone.
Classify your apps and photos
This is not a fun task, I admit, but it is necessary. Sit back and check all the apps installed on your phone, remove apps you no longer use. Then go to the Photos app and delete all the random screenshots, photos and videos that you have saved for no reason.
Your iPhone will feel less cluttered and it will free up storage space and in turn reduce the amount of space you will need to back up your phone. Another benefit is that it will take less time to restore your new iPhone when you are setting it up.
Get rid of clutter.
Jason Cipriani / CNET
Make sure your phone has regular backups
It’s easy to ignore the messages that let you know you don’t have iCloud storage space and your phone is no longer being backed up, but you will want to have a backup plan when it comes time to switch phones.
If you don’t have iCloud storage space, you have a few options: pay for more storage, change what’s backed up, or use your computer to create a backup.
We have one guide that walks you through all those iPhone backup optionsalong with the pros and cons of each option.
Don’t wait for your new iPhone to show up before tackling backups. If you’re like me, you’ll get impatient and set up your phone without restoring it, causing headaches and costing you more time in the end.
The iPhone 12 will surely launch with iOS 14 already installed.
Óscar Gutiérrez / CNET
Part of an upgrade program? Check your status
If you are using an update program from Apple or your carrier, it is a good idea to check how many payments you have left before you are eligible to update your iPhone.
I bought a iPhone 11 Pro Max on launch day through Apple’s upgrade program, and I am already eligible to upgrade because I made the required 12 monthly payments for the device. With the release of the iPhone 12 a few weeks later than normal, you may find yourself in the same situation.
If you purchased your phone from a provider with a payment plan, please log into your account or call customer service to verify your eligibility. If you purchased your phone through Apple’s upgrade program, you can use the Apple Store app on your phone to check its status.
Depending on when you upgraded to your current iPhone, you may need to make another payment (or more) before you can upgrade. Knowing what that amount is now will help you budget for the next upgrade.
The new iPhone will launch with iOS 14 exist tons of exciting new features in the update that will also make its official debut this fall. My personal favorite so far? The redesigned home screen, complete with widgets.
