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How to back up GBA save files before a reinstall or new phone

In iGBA, go to Settings, Saving, and tap Back up everything: the app packs every battery save, save state, cheat list and setting into one .igbabackup file that you store where you like. On the new device, tap Restore from a backup and pick that file. The same file also restores on iGBA for Android.

2 min read · Updated 2026-09-26

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Why back up your saves

iGBA keeps everything on your device and does not sync to a cloud. That keeps your files private, but it also means deleting the app, resetting the phone or losing it deletes your progress with it.

A backup file is your copy. Make one before you reinstall iGBA, before you move to a new iPhone or iPad, and every so often after a long session.

What the backup includes

Contents of an iGBA backup file
ItemIncluded
Battery saves (.sav) for every gameYes
Save states with their screenshotsYes
Cheat listsYes
App settingsYes
The game files themselvesNo

How to back up your saves

  1. Open iGBA and tap Settings.
  2. Tap Saving and scroll to the backup section.
  3. Tap Back up everything. You do not need to pick games; all of them are included.
  4. The share sheet opens with one .igbabackup file. Save it to the Files app, a computer or another storage place you trust.

If you have not played anything yet, the app shows Nothing to back up yet.

How to restore a backup

  1. Install iGBA on the new device and import your game files with Import ROMs.
  2. Open Settings, then Saving.
  3. Tap Restore from a backup and choose the .igbabackup file.
  4. Confirm. Saves with the same name are overwritten, so restore before you start playing on the new device.
  5. When Backup restored appears, open a game: your progress is back.

How to transfer a single save file

To move just one game's progress, open its saves list: Export .sav creates the battery save file, and Share as .igbasave sends a complete iGBA save. On the other side, Import .sav from the ⋯ menu in Game library applies a .sav to the matching game.

Common mistakes

  • Deleting the app before making the backup: a reinstall starts empty.
  • Keeping the only backup copy on the phone you are about to reset.
  • Restoring after playing on the new device, which replaces the newer saves of the same games.
  • Opening a file from another app: iGBA reports That file is not an iGBA backup. when it is not an .igbabackup file.

Read the guide: How to transfer your GBA saves between iPhone and Android

Questions and answers

Where are GBA save files stored in iGBA?
Inside iGBA's own storage on your device, with a separate folder of save states for each game. They leave the device only when you back them up or export them.
Does iGBA back up to iCloud automatically?
No. There is no automatic cloud sync. You make the backup file yourself and choose where to keep it.
Is backup a Pro feature?
No. Back up everything and Restore from a backup are free for everyone.
Can I restore an iPhone backup on Android?
Yes. iGBA for Android restores the same .igbabackup file from Settings, Backups, Restore backup, and the other way round. Saves, save states and game clocks move across; cheats, settings and purchases stay behind. Our iPhone and Android transfer guide has the steps.

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