**Want to Back Up Your iPhone Securely Without Paying the Apple Tax? There's a Hack for That, But It Isn't for Everyone... Yet**

Are you an iPhone owner tired of relying on cloud storage services or recurring fees to back up your content? Do you value control over your data and want to keep it local? A small open-source project on GitHub may have the solution you're looking for. Introducing the iOS Backup Machine, a compact Linux device that creates automatic local backups when an iPhone is connected via USB.

The project, which requires dedication and technical know-how, uses libimobiledevice to trigger encrypted backups with no user interaction required after the initial setup. Once your iPhone is plugged in, the process starts on its own and runs to completion, unless you remove the cable. You'll be able to monitor backup progress and receive messages on a small e-ink display mounted on the device.

The system relies on the iPhone's built-in encryption mechanisms, ensuring that your data remains secure even if someone tries to access it. The resulting backup files aren't easily readable on their own, but they can be used to restore your device or set up a replacement phone. To ensure data integrity, the project uses a separate microSD card for backup storage, keeping it isolated from the operating system.

The Radxa Zero 3W board running Armbian and Python scripts is at the heart of this project. A small uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is also included to reduce the risk of corruption in case of a power outage or battery drain. If anything goes wrong, logs are stored locally, and any errors will be displayed directly on the screen.

As for assembly, it requires several off-the-shelf components and a 3D printed case. Users need to follow the setup instructions carefully and be comfortable working with Linux-based tools. While this project may not be for everyone, especially those who prioritize convenience over local ownership, it's an innovative solution for those who value control over their data.

The developer has mentioned potential future updates, including selective device filtering, optional network reporting, and limited internet access over USB. For now, the project targets users who are willing to trade convenience for local ownership of their data.

**Key Features:**

* Automatic local backups via USB * Encrypted backups using iPhone's built-in mechanisms * Separate microSD card for backup storage * Uninterruptible power supply (UPS) for data integrity * Logs stored locally, with error messages displayed on the screen * E-ink display shows owner information and backup progress

**Technical Requirements:**

* Radxa Zero 3W board running Armbian * Python scripts * MicroSD card for backup storage * Uninterruptible power supply (UPS) * Off-the-shelf components for assembly * 3D printed case * Comfortable working with Linux-based tools

**Target Audience:**

* iPhone owners who value control over their data * Users who prioritize local ownership and security * Those willing to trade convenience for data integrity

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