Viewing / Opening back-up files

[NewMax]

Hi, about to update operating system on my Ipad2 and first backed up on a friends Mac. Completed the back-up and finally found where back up was on Mac - Files user/ library / application support/mobile sync/back up.

The back up files names are (to me) a meaningless jumble of letters and numbers. All termed 'documents'. I hoped that I was backing up photos and Applications etc. I tried, but failed, to open any of the backup files to check the photos etc are saved on Mac.

Any advice on how to view/ open these backed up files?

Thanks NewMax

 

[Mickey330]

They aren't "openable." iTunes takes everything and mushes it together and it is only accessible by iTunes when a "restore from backup" command is given.

That's the way iTunes/Apple rolls. Sorry.

Marilyn

 

[twerppoet]

Any advice on how to view/ open these backed up files?

There are a few programs that will extract files from a backup (if you haven't encrypted it). Try a Google search for iOS Backup extractor. I've never used one, so I'm not going to make recommendations.

 

[Mickey330]

Oh, snap!

Thanks for reminding me, twerppoet. There IS something that you can use to look at a backup. I've even used it - successfully, I might add. In f4780y's words:

"You may be able to use something like iBackupBot to interrogate the iTunes backup file on your PC ..."

So, maybe iBackupBot will work for you. There is a free download version for trying out. I ended up buying the full version to do what I needed, but I was able to look through my most recent backup. Note that I was using a Windows 7 PC ... I don't know how/if it works on a Mac.

Good luck and sorry about the first reply. Thanks, again, twerppoet!

Marilyn

 

[twerppoet]

No problem. Wasn't long ago I was saying the same thing, and I learned different from the same source I believe.

 

[twerppoet]

Got looking through my notes for another thread and ran accross this alternative: iPhone Backup Extractor. Thought I'd mention just because. I've never used either of them.