- Standalone device offers automatic encrypted iPhone backup without iCloud
- Linux-based hardware synchronizes data locally using USB and open source tools.
- The project favors control and transparency, but requires manual configuration and technical skills.
If you are an iPhone owner and want to back up your content locally without cloud storage services or recurring payments, a small open source project may be what you're looking for, although it does require dedication and technical know-how.
iOS Backup Machine Project on GitHub is dedicated to a compact Linux device that automatically creates local backups when an iPhone is connected via USB. It avoids wireless synchronization and stores data on external servers.
The system uses libimobiledevice to run encrypted backups without user intervention after initial setup. Once the iPhone is connected, the process starts on its own and continues until it completes until the cable is unplugged.
Not for everyone
Backup progress and messages are displayed on a small e-ink display mounted on the device. At startup, the screen may also display owner information, such as a phone number, which remains visible even after the power is turned off.
Encryption is based on iPhone's own built-in mechanisms. The resulting backup files themselves are not easy to read, although they can be used to restore the device or set up a replacement phone.
The project is developed based on the Radxa Zero 3W board, which runs Armbian and Python scripts.
Separate microSD card used to store backups, keeping it isolated from operating system.
To reduce the risk of damage, the system is combined with a small uninterruptible power supply. If the battery level drops or the power is lost, the device performs a controlled shutdown and safely pauses the backup.
Logs are stored locally and any errors are shown directly on the display. In standby mode, the screen cycles through the latest backup results, timestamp, disk usage, and owner information.
Assembly requires several prefabricated components and a 3D printed housing. Users must follow installation instructions and be comfortable with Linux-based tools.
Future updates discussed by the developer include selective device filtering, additional network reporting, and limited Internet access via USB.
At the moment, the project is aimed at users who value control and are willing to sacrifice convenience for the sake of local ownership.
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