Ten things to do on a new iPhone

By the Orchard Lab team · 2026-09-15

Ten minutes on day one saves a lot of trouble later. This is the checklist we run through every time.

1. Turn on Stolen Device Protection (Settings → Face ID & Passcode). It requires biometrics for sensitive changes when you are away from familiar places.
2. Check Find My is on, including “Find My network”.
3. Use a longer passcode. Six digits is the minimum; an alphanumeric code is better.
4. Set up iCloud Backup — or a regular backup to your Mac.
5. Review charging options. Recent models let you limit charging to 80% to reduce battery wear.
6. Trim notifications and try a Focus mode for work and sleep.
7. Turn on Advanced Data Protection if you understand the recovery trade-offs.
8. Add a recovery contact for your Apple Account.
9. Review app permissions for location, photos and tracking.
10. Customise the Action button or Control Center with the shortcuts you actually use.