How does iCloud work and how to use it

💡Need to know

• Free up local storage: Move content to iCloud to conserve space on your devices.
• Secure files: iCloud encrypts all your data, and you can implement two-factor authentication for extra security.
• Access content anywhere: You can access files saved to iCloud from any device using your login details. 
• Link devices: iCloud links devices using your Apple ID, so you can view and retrieve files from iPhone, iPad, iMac, and more.

For the second time in a week, you've received an iCloud® notification on your iPhone®. The message urges you to set up the service, so you can sync the data saved on your device to the cloud. But how does iCloud work, and should you use it?

Asurion Experts help you get the most from your favorite devices. Whether you need to restore your iPhone from a backup or increase iPhone storage capacity, we can help. Here's our guide to iCloud explained, so you can decide whether it's right for you.

What does iCloud do?

iCloud is a cloud storage service solution provided by Apple®. When enabled, you can use it to sync and back up data saved on any Apple device, such as pictures, videos, files, notes, and mail. 

All Apple devices include iCloud as a feature. You can sync up to five gigabytes of data for free, and add on additional storage space for a fee.

Understanding the difference between syncing and backup

iCloud automatically syncs your iPhone, iPad®, and other devices to the cloud. This occurs in real-time. For example, if you take a photo on your iPhone with iCloud enabled, a copy of the picture is saved locally and to the cloud. Any changes you make to the photo locally are reflected in your iCloud files, since syncing mirrors actions across devices.

How does iCloud backup work?

iCloud also serves as a backup storage space. Assume you lost your old iPhone and bought a new one. It's possible to transfer all your apps, photos, mail, notes, and other synced data from iCloud to your new device using the backup feature. 

Managing your iCloud storage and paid plans

iCloud includes five free gigabytes of storage. But if that isn't enough for all your files and content, you can upgrade to a paid iCloud+® plan to access more storage space.

Pricing for iCloud+ depends on your location. In the U.S., monthly costs for iCloud+ are as follows:

• 50 GB: $0.99
• 200 GB: $2.99
• 2 TB: $9.99
• 6 TB: $29.99
• 12 TB: $59.99

For the average iPhone user, 50–200 GB of storage space is enough for photos, mail, notes, and other content. However, you may want a larger plan if you combine multiple devices, such as an iPad and a Mac®.

Windows users can take advantage of iCloud, too. Simply download the iCloud for Windows app or connect to the iCloud website to sync, transfer, or download files.

How to check current iCloud storage

Keeping an eye on your storage capacity can tell you whether it's time to upgrade your plan or free up iCloud storage space for new content. To check your usage, take these steps:

1. Access the iCloud settings.
   • iPhone or iPad: Tap Settings > [your name] > iCloud.
   • Mac: Click Apple menu > System settings > [your name].
   • Windows device: Open iCloud for Windows and scroll to the bar graph.
2. View storage availability.
   • iPhone or iPad: Tap Storage or Manage Account Storage to view details.
   • Mac: Click iCloud > Manage.
   • Windows: Click Manage to view storage capacity.

Follow these instructions to access your data

Curious to see what is in your iCloud? Here's how to use iCloud storage to access your files based on your device type.

iPhone and iPad

1. Open Files.
2. Tap Browse > iCloud Drive. 
3. View the list of files and folders saved to iCloud.

Mac

1. Open Finder.
2. Click iCloud Drive.
3. View the list of files and folders saved to iCloud.

Windows PC

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click iCloud Drive.
3. View the list of files and folders saved to iCloud.

iCloud.com

1. Navigate to icould.com/iclouddrive.
2. Sign in to your Apple Account.
3. View the list of files and folders saved to iCloud.

Top tips for optimizing your iCloud experience

iCloud requires an internet connection to sync and back up data. Without a connection, new files and content won't be saved. However, syncing resumes once your device reconnects to the internet.

For a smooth experience, implement these tips:

• Regularly check storage space: Keep an eye on iCloud storage availability and delete files you no longer need. 
• Enable iPhone storage optimization: Open Settings, then tap iCloud > Photos > Optimize iPhone Storage. This feature saves full-resolution photos to iCloud and keeps a smaller-sized copy on your iPhone. 

Keep in mind that any changes you make to photos and files on your device are mirrored in iCloud. Avoid deleting items from your device that you don't want removed from iCloud.