Using both iPhone and iPad without computer, is there any procedures to do beforehand.

Thinking of using just iPhone and iPad without computer, so would like to know if there are procedures to do other than deleting info from computer? Both devices have WiFi and cellular service and are synced as was the computer.


I’ve read info that both devices can run independently from computer but found nothing on how to go about it. Will the info that was on computer be on other devices as far as browsers, bookmarks and all the rest?

Posted on Nov 2, 2025 10:49 AM

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6 replies

Dec 2, 2025 7:12 AM in response to robinfromwinneconne

You can reset the computer BUT if you try to manually delete, say, Photos and the computer syncs to iCloud then you will delete them from all your devices and iCloud. Ditto contacts, Notes, Calendar etc etc.


I considered getting an ipad Pro instead of a new Macbook but the work I do testing, the iPad cannot yet restore or recover a compromised iphone, or iPad.


Some people back up to iCloud and to Mac as doubly safe.

Nov 2, 2025 11:11 AM in response to robinfromwinneconne

You can learn a lot by simply shutting down / powering off the computer and leaving it off for a day or two while you use the iPhone and iPad.


What happens regarding "browsers, bookmarks, and all the rest?"


Have you thought about how you will back up the iPhone and iPad automatically?


Post back if you still have questions after a few days.



Dec 2, 2025 7:11 AM in response to robinfromwinneconne

Find below the differences between a PC/Mac, an iPhone, and an iPad:



PC or Mac

  • File Storage:
    • Can manage complex folder hierarchies, external drives, and multiple file formats (e.g., .exe, .dmg, .zip).
    • Example: A video editor can store terabytes of raw footage across multiple drives and organize them into project folders.
  • Performance:
    • Runs heavy-duty applications like Adobe Premiere Pro, AutoCAD, or Xcode.
    • Example: A software developer can run virtual machines, compile large codebases, and multitask with dozens of browser tabs and apps open.
  • Capabilities:
    • Supports peripherals like dual monitors, external GPUs, and specialized input devices.
    • Example: A gamer can use a high-end graphics card to play AAA titles at 120 FPS, something mobile devices cannot handle.



iPhone

  • File Storage:
    • Uses a sandboxed app environment — each app manages its own files.
    • Example: You can’t directly access system files or drag-and-drop folders like on a PC; instead, photos are stored in the Photos app, documents in Files, and music in Apple Music.
  • Performance:
    • Optimized for quick, lightweight tasks like messaging, browsing, and mobile gaming.
    • Example: You can instantly scan a QR code, pay with Apple Pay, or record a 4K video without worrying about file management.
  • Capabilities:
    • Mobile-only features like Face ID, AirDrop from your pocket, or location-aware apps.
    • Example: A ride-hailing app like Uber uses GPS and cellular data seamlessly — something a desktop computer cannot replicate in the same way.



iPad

  • File Storage:
    • Uses the same simplified file system as iPhone, but with more flexibility via the Files app.
    • Example: You can download PDFs, annotate them with Apple Pencil, and store them in iCloud Drive — but you still don’t get the same granular control as on a PC.
  • Performance:
    • More powerful than a phone, capable of running apps like Photoshop for iPad or multitasking with split-screen.
    • Example: A student can take notes with Apple Pencil while attending a video lecture in split view.
  • Capabilities:
    • Straddles mobile and desktop worlds — touch-first design but with optional keyboard/mouse support.
    • Example: A designer can sketch concepts directly on the screen with Apple Pencil, something neither a phone nor a traditional computer offers natively.



Key Takeaway

  • PC/Mac: Heavy-duty, multitasking, complex file management, professional-grade software.
  • iPhone: Portability, instant access, mobile-first features, secure sandboxed apps.
  • iPad: Hybrid — larger screen and productivity tools, but still mobile-centric.


Because of these differences:

  • You can’t run Final Cut Pro on an iPhone, but you can shoot and edit short clips quickly.
  • You can’t use Face ID or Apple Pencil on a Mac, but you can run full desktop-grade apps.
  • You can’t manage terabytes of files on an iPad, but you can annotate PDFs and sketch designs with ease.


Each device is purpose-built: not interchangeable, but complementary.

Dec 2, 2025 7:00 AM in response to Bob Timmons

Bob,


Have been using both IPhone and IPad now for a while with computer shut down and not in use, all bookmarks, browsers and stuff stored in One Drive are all there. But I guess my question is what would happen if I were to totally clear out the computer of everything? Will it all be kept on the other 2 devices?


And what do you mean by automatically back up? Is The Cloud not backing things up?


Using both iPhone and iPad without computer, is there any procedures to do beforehand.

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