Introduction
Seeing the error message “No iCloud Backups Are Compatible with the Version of iOS” can be worrying for iPhone and iPad users. This typically means that the backups you have stored on iCloud are created with a newer iOS version and cannot be restored to your current device.
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Fortunately, there are several ways to resolve this issue and get your device back up and running with your latest iCloud backup. In this guide, we will cover the main troubleshooting steps you can take to fix the “No iCloud Backups Are Compatible” error.
H1: Update to the Latest iOS Version
The most common reason for the “No iCloud Backups Are Compatible” error is having an outdated version of iOS on your device. Apple regularly releases new iOS versions with new features and security updates. If your device is running an older iOS version, it may no longer be compatible with newer backups created on iCloud.
To resolve this, the first step is to update your device to the latest iOS version that Apple has released.
Here is how to do it:
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update on your iPhone or iPad. This will check for any iOS updates available for your device.
- If an update is available, tap “Download and Install” to update your device to the latest iOS version.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation process. Make sure your device remains connected to power and Wi-Fi during the update.
- Once your iPhone or iPad reboots, it will be running the latest iOS version compatible with modern iCloud backups.
Updating to the newest iOS version can often immediately fix the backup compatibility issue. Be sure to upgrade as soon as possible if you encounter the error message.
H2: Delete and Reinstall iCloud Backup
If updating iOS did not resolve the problem, the next step is to delete your existing iCloud backup and reinstall it from scratch. This can clear out any corrupted backup data that may be causing compatibility issues.
Follow these steps to delete and reinstall your iCloud backup:
- Open the Settings app and tap on your Apple ID banner at the top of the screen.
- Select “iCloud” and tap “Manage Storage”.
- Under “Backups”, tap on your device name and then tap “Delete Backup”.
- Tap “Turn Off & Delete” to confirm deleting the iCloud backup.
- Next, reboot your iOS device and when it starts back up, go to Settings > Your Name > iCloud > iCloud Backup.
- Turn on iCloud Backup and tap “Back Up Now” to reinstall a fresh iCloud backup.
This will force your device to overwrite the old incompatible backup with a new modern backup. Test restoring from iCloud after it completes to see if the error has been resolved.
H2: Use Finder or iTunes to Restore iCloud Backup
If wireless methods fail, you can also restore an iCloud backup to your device using Finder on a Mac or iTunes on Windows. This provides a wired option that can sometimes fix backup compatibility issues.
Finder Method (Mac)
To restore an iCloud backup via Finder on a Mac:
- Connect your iPhone or iPad to your Mac using a Lightning or USB-C cable.
- Open Finder and select your device under Locations in the sidebar.
- Select “Restore Backup” and choose your iCloud backup from the available options.
- Click “Restore” to overwrite your device with the iCloud backup data.
iTunes Method (Windows)
To restore an iCloud backup via iTunes on Windows:
- Connect your iPhone or iPad to your Windows PC using a Lightning or USB-C cable.
- Open iTunes and select your device.
- Go to the Summary page and click “Restore Backup”.
- Choose your iCloud backup and click “Restore” to install it.
Using Finder or iTunes can provide a fresh start and eliminate any Wi-Fi transfer issues causing backup problems.
H2: Erase All Content and Settings
If you continue having “No iCloud Backups Are Compatible” problems, a more advanced troubleshooting technique is to completely erase your device and start from scratch:
- Backup your device through iTunes or Finder so you have a copy of your data.
- Go to Settings > General > Reset.
- Tap “Erase All Content and Settings”. This will wipe your device back to factory settings.
- Setup your device again, install the latest iOS version, and restore your backup.
Wiping everything and resetting up the device essentially gives you a clean slate to then reinstall iCloud backups freshly. This has resolved stubborn iCloud backup compatibility issues for many users.
H2: Use Third-Party Backup Tools
Another option to fix iCloud backup problems is using third-party iOS backup and restore software.
Here are some top options:
- iMyFone D-Back – Fixes backup issues, extracts iCloud data, and restores iOS/iTunes backups.
- iMazing – Manages iOS backups, transfers files, saves voicemails, and extracts data from iCloud.
- AnyTrans – Removes lock screen passcodes and fixes disabled iPhones and iPads.
These tools give you much more control over managing, viewing, and restoring iOS backups from iCloud or iTunes. The advanced capabilities can overcome errors and compatibility issues.
For example, iMyFone D-Back has specialized functions to find lost or corrupted iCloud backups, rebuild them, and securely restore data. So if you are unable to restore an iCloud backup normally, third-party software may provide the solution.
H2: Contact Apple Support
If you still cannot get your iCloud backup working after trying all the above steps, you can contact Apple Support for further assistance.
Apple’s technicians have additional tools and resources for diagnosing and fixing iCloud-related problems. They may be able to reset your iCloud account or work with you to determine if there is a deeper issue.
To contact Apple Support:
- Call 1-800-275-2273
- Chat online at https://support.apple.com
- Schedule a support appointment at an Apple Store
Be sure to clearly explain the “No iCloud Backups Are Compatible” error you are receiving. Provide your device details, iOS version, and iCloud account information. Apple should be able to investigate and restore your backup access.
FAQs About iCloud Backup Compatibility Issues
What causes the “No iCloud Backups Are Compatible” error?
This error typically occurs when your iOS version is outdated and no longer supports the backup file format created by newer versions of iOS used in your iCloud backups. Updating your iOS can usually fix this.
Can I restore from a newer iCloud backup to an older iOS version?
No, you can only restore an iCloud backup to the same or newer iOS version that it was created from. Older iOS versions are not forward compatible.
How can I view what is inside my iCloud backups?
You can use third-party tools like iMazing or iMyFone D-Back to explore your iCloud backups and see their contents. Apple does not provide a native way to view iCloud backup data.
Is there a size limit for iCloud backups?
Yes, iCloud provides 5GB of free storage space which can quickly be filled up by backups. You may need to upgrade your iCloud storage plan to make space for multiple backups.
Can I restore from a local iTunes backup if iCloud is not working?
Yes, you can restore an iTunes backup made with a cable connection as an alternate method. iTunes backups are stored locally rather than on iCloud.
Conclusion
The “No iCloud Backups Are Compatible” error can certainly be annoying, but luckily there are a number of ways you can attempt to fix it. The key is to update your iOS version, reinstall iCloud backups, erase your device, or use third-party software. Contact Apple support if you still have no luck.
With the right troubleshooting steps, you should be able to get your iCloud backup restored so you do not lose your important iPhone or iPad data. Be sure to regularly update iOS and maintain current backups.
Table Summary of Solutions for “No iCloud Backups Compatible” Error
| Solution | How To Fix | Things to Note |
| Update iOS Version | Go to Settings > General > Software Update | Get latest compatible iOS |
| Reinstall iCloud Backup | Delete old backup > Make new backup | Clears corrupted data |
| Restore via Finder/iTunes | Wired connection to restore | Alternate to WiFi |
| Erase All Content and Settings | Wipes device to factory settings | Fresh slate but erases data |
| Use Third-Party Tools | iMyFone D-Back, iMazing, AnyTrans | Advanced capabilities |
| Contact Apple Support | Get help from Apple technicians | Further troubleshooting |