Because the storage on Apple iOS devices is not accessible like a conventional hard drive, it is even more critical that one keeps current backups of the data on there using iTunes, but for photos and videos which are usually more valuable than apps and cloud-synced data, there is no built-in mechanism for backing them up automatically.

Hence, I recommend CameraSync, an inexpensive Universal app that works on the iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad, and that syncs your devices photos to online repositories, including Dropbox, Flickr, Amazon S3, FTP, and other services. Requires iOS 4.

If you are not currently backing up your computer, stop and ask yourself:

Can I afford to lose everything on my hard drive?

If the answer is no, then please, please, please do yourself a favor and get a backup drive and start using it ASAP. I can't tell you how many times I get calls from people who are in such distress because their hard drive is making clicking or scraping noises (which I can only refer to an expensive clean room data recovery service). I am encouraged that more and more people are using Time Machine or some other form of online backup, but it's still the minority of people I see.

So, for your convenience and consideration, I offer you links to two spacious external backup options from Western Digital, both about $100 at Amazon:

2TB WD Elements desktop drive (includes AC adapter)

1TB My Passport Essential SE portable drive (powered by included USB cable)

Isn't $100 a pittance for the peace of mind of knowing you have an up-to-date copy of your invaluable data?

(download)

Click here to download:

Not_backing_up_tag_Mac_backup.zip (145 KB)