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Hey there, what a lovely new iPhone you have! Whichever one of the many iPhones in Apple's lineup you snagged, the setup experience is nearly identical. Here’s how to set up a new iPhone properly to ensure a three- to five-year lifetime, give or take, of happiness. (Or just one, if you’re an annual upgrader.) Things always go more smoothly when you're prepared, so make sure you have the following ready for the easiest possible setup:
Your old phone (not essential, but it's smart to have it handy)
Your SIM card (not required for eSIM activation)
Your Wi-Fi details
Your Apple account details