How to Transfer Photos and Files to a New iPad

A concise guide to migrating your photos and files to a new iPad using Quick Start and iCloud for a seamless transition.

1. Update your current iPad. On your old device, navigate to Settings > General > Software Update. Ensure the iPad is running the latest version of iPadOS to ensure full compatibility with the migration process.
2. Initiate Quick Start. Turn on your new iPad and place it near your old device with Bluetooth enabled. An animation will appear on your old iPad asking if you want to set up your new device; tap Continue.
3. Authenticate the migration. Scan the pattern displayed on the new iPad using the camera on your old iPad. Follow the on-screen prompts to enter your current device passcode on the new hardware.
4. Select Transfer from iPad. Select Transfer from iPad when prompted on the new screen. This creates a direct peer-to-peer connection that mirrors your existing photos, files, and settings to the new hardware.
5. Enable iCloud Photos and Files. After the migration concludes, verify your media by opening the Photos app. Ensure Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > Photos is set to Sync this iPad to bring down the full-resolution library from the cloud.