Detailed Full Review of iCloud: All you need to know (2024)

What is iCloud storage?

The iCloud storage Is a Apple service launched on October 12, 2011 that allows you to securely store your photos, files, notes, notes, calendar, contacts, and other data in the cloud.

It's a real lifesaver for today's busy world because it automatically sync all of your files, contacts, calendar, and up-to-date notes across multiple devices.

It also allows you to share valuable experiences or content with friends and family - from creating albums of places or events to adding photos, videos, and even comments!

Without a doubt, it is surely one of the best online storage platforms as we see in this article.

• Service offer 5 GB in the free cloud.
• iCloud also offers subscription plans that offer 50GB, 200GB, and 2TB of online file storage (notes, contacts, photos and videos, etc.)

You don't need to own an Apple device like an iPhone to use this technology. All you need to do is create an account on iCloud.com to get your Apple ID, and that's it.

That being said, let's see how this technology works.

How does iCloud storage work?

Apple has returned the preservation of your organized and accessible files easier like never before your notes or contacts on iPhone or Mac.

All you need is an account or device from the tech giant to start taking advantage of this cloud based service !

With iCloud Drive, it's easier than ever to keep all of your iPhone photos and all of your files safely.

Simply install the Files app on any of your iOS/iPad OS, iPhone, Mac, or Windows devices - and everything you capture or save will be synchronized in real time !

• Each stored file can easily be shared with the people you care about; perfect for sharing these precious memories together.
• iCloud online storage is a fantastic option for families who want to share files, photos and videos, notes, apple music, contacts, etc.
• With up to five family members allowed access at no additional cost, it's an easy way to keep everyone connected in one digital space!
• Everything is accessible without Wi-Fi or a network

In the next section, I will explain to you which types of features are available so you can find the ones that best fit your needs.

Features

It has a lot of amazing features, however, we'll only cover a few of them in this section.

Here are its main characteristics:

1. iCloud Drive

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The centrepiece of iCloud, iCloud Drive, is a cloud storage platform that ensures perfect sync between your Apple devices.

• Allows a effortless collaboration between your Apple devices
• Synchronize file changes between all connected devices in real time
• Eliminates the need for manual file transfers
• Suggests better productivity through seamless sync

iCloud Drive, by simplifying features like file sharing and collaboration, makessmoother user experience and more productive.

2. iCloud storage plans

iCloud offers a variety of storage plans to meet a variety of needs.

• Offer 5 GB free upon registration
• Offer of iCloud+ premium plans for extra space
• iCloud+ plans include additional features, like photo backups

The plans offer valuable flexibility to choose the option that best suits their functional needs.

3. Photo library

iCloud Photo Library makes it easy and convenient to store and share photos and videos.

• Automatically stores your photos and videos
• Accessible from anywhere thanks to synchronization between devices
• Does not require manual backups

iCloud Photo Library makes storing and sharing digital memories easier and more intuitive.

4. Family sharing

iCloud Family Sharing makes it easy for family members to share content.

• Share photos, music, apps, and more with up to five family members
• All of these benefits at no additional cost to your current subscription.

iCloud Family Sharing is a handy feature that reinforces the sense of connection between family members.

5. Email, iCloud Private Relay

Apple iCloud provides a secure email service with various benefits called iCloud Private Relay.

• Offers the possibility of having aliases for.mac, .me, and.iCloud domains with iCloud private relay
• Includes features like iCloud private relay to improve privacy

The iCloud email service allows for secure and private communication.

6. Find My

Find My is a valuable tool for locating and protecting your Apple devices.

• Locate a lost AirTag or a lost device
• Allows you to remotely lock a lost device

With one of its features like Find My, Apple gives extra peace of mind for the security of their devices.

7. Messages

iMessage, Apple's messaging service, makes easy and secure communication.

• Enables easy sending of text messages, photos, videos, and voice messages
• Securely store messages in iCloud
• All communications are encrypted during transport

With iMessage and iCloud, staying connected with friends and family has never been easier or safer.

8. Personal data

iCloud allows for instant synchronization of various important information.

• Instantly sync information like contacts, calendar events, and reminders
• Third-party applications have access to this data.

With iCloud, your personal information is always up to date and accessible no matter what device you use.

9. iCloud Keychain

iCloud Keychain is a secure password manager provided by Apple.

• Manage and store your passes In the cloud
• Available on all your Apple devices
• Suggest strong passwords when creating new logins

iCloud Keychain makes it easy to manage passwords while keeping them secure.

10. 2-factor authentication

2-factor authentication is a security feature that protects your Apple devices and services.

• Authenticates the user when they sign in to an Apple device or service
• Relies on The chain of trust Apple devices
• Allows you to set up recovery contacts for account security

2-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your Apple devices and services.

Ease of use

The biggest The advantage of iCloud is its ease of use.

If you use Apple products - whether it's an iPhone, iPad, or Mac - the built-in integration with iCloud Drive makes using the service incredibly easy.

iCloud Drive simply takes the form of another folder where you can drag and drop files and folders to sync them to the cloud.

You also have an elegant web interface that allows you to manage your data in the cloud and download files directly to any device.

Pricing

iCloud offers a flexible range of plans to meet a variety of needs and budgets. Here are the details:

• Affordable packages : iCloud offers three paid plan options, all of which are very affordable. You can get 50GB of storage for just under $1 per month, 200GB of storage for under $3 per month, and 2TB for just $10 per month.
• Free Basic Plan : For users who only need limited space, iCloud offers a free basic plan with 5GB of storage.
• No Annual Discounts : It's important to note that iCloud doesn't offer discounts for annual payments, unlike some other cloud storage services.
• Online rates by country : iCloud prices may vary depending on where you live.
• Comparison with competitors : While free storage is appreciated, it's worth noting that iCloud offers less free space than some competitors, like Google Drive.

Overall, iCloud offers a range of affordable prices for its cloud storage services. However, depending on your specific storage needs and where you live, other cloud storage services may offer better value. For a detailed price comparison of iCloud and other providers, see our detailed iCloud price list on this page.

iOS integration

Enjoy effortless syncing across your Apple devices with iCloud Drive - the ultimate storage solution for iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch users.

Quickly manage downloads from a convenient menu of options in the settings and take advantage of a neat and elegant web interface that makes file storage easy!

iCloud File Sharing and Synchronization

iCloud is a great tool for managing your files, syncing, and sharing with unparalleled ease. Here's how it works:

• Easy file sync : iCloud simplifies the process of syncing data across multiple devices. With the direct download feature, simply drag and drop the content into an iCloud folder on your device and the file is automatically stored and synced to all of your devices via the cloud.
• File sharing : When it comes to sharing files, iCloud offers a simple but slightly limited method compared to some competitors. To share a folder or file, simply open the context menu for the item you want to share and choose “iCloud Sharing.” Next, enter an email address or phone number, and determine if the recipient can only view the file or edit it as well.
• Access control : iCloud allows you to control access to your files. You can choose to allow anyone who has the link to access it, or only the people you explicitly invite. However, iCloud lacks some features like password protection, expiration dates for shared links, and finer access controls.
• Limitations : It's important to note that iCloud doesn't offer a way to send download requests to other users. But on the other hand, there are no bandwidth limits on the sharing links you create.

Despite some limitations, iCloud remains a powerful tool for managing, syncing, and sharing your files. If file sharing is a key feature for you and you want more controls, there are other cloud storage services that might better suit your needs.

Security offered by iCloud

Apple's cloud storage service, iCloud, is a popular tool that offers the ease of syncing and storing data across various Apple devices. However, understanding the security offered by iCloud is critical to keeping your data private and secure online. This in-depth article explores iCloud security, including what Apple is doing to protect your data and what areas could be further improved.

1. iCloud security enhancements

Following the iCloud hack incident in 2014, Apple rolled out several updates to improve the security of its users.

• Two-factor authentication (2FA) : Apple introduced this feature to increase the security of its users. 2FA requires additional proof of identity when signing in from a new device or web browser.
• Connection alerts : Apple now alerts users when a connection is made from a new device or web browser, or when data is restored to a device.

2. Data Encryption

The iCloud uses the TLS or SSL encryption to protect your data in transit and 128-bit AES encryption for files that are already stored on iCloud servers. To understand these encryption terminologies, check out our detailed guide to encryption.

However, although the encryption has improved, it is possible that vulnerabilities remain, especially in the developer API.

3. Retention of encryption keys

Although the data stored on iCloud Drive is technically encrypted, Apple keeps the encryption keys, which gives it the ability to decrypt your files if needed. This raises concerns for those who place a high value on the privacy of their data.

Apple iCloud Privacy Policy

Apple's privacy policy, while solid, may seem complex for some users.

Here is a breakdown of the key points of this policy:

• Transparency : Apple's privacy page is quite extensive and may require careful reading to understand the details of the information collected and shared. However, Apple is committed to respecting user privacy and not sharing their data with other businesses without consent.
• Cooperation with the authorities : Apple may share user information with legal authorities when required by law. It's critical to note this when considering the privacy of your data on iCloud.
• Global data centers : Apple has data centers in various regions of the world, including the United States, Denmark, and Asia. Choosing the data center to store your data can depend on a number of factors, including your geographic location.
• Location secret : For security reasons, Apple does not reveal the exact location of its data centers. This practice is common in the cloud industry to avoid physical attacks on data storage facilities.

Customer support

iCloud is an exceptional tool for managing your files and data, but even the best tools can sometimes cause problems.

Luckily, iCloud has solid customer support to help you overcome these hurdles. Here's how iCloud customer support works:

• Support forum : One of the first places to get help is the iCloud support forum. This forum is a treasure trove of information with experts and enthusiasts ready to help you solve basic problems. You can find solutions to a multitude of common problems without even having to contact Apple directly.
• Phone and chat support : If you are unable to resolve your issue using the support forum, you can contact Apple Support directly. You can do this over the phone or by chat. The ability to chat in real time with a customer support advisor is an undeniable advantage in resolving issues quickly and effectively.
• No email option : It is important to note that iCloud does not offer email support options. However, with the speed and efficiency of chat and phone support, this shouldn't be a major problem for most users.

At the end of the day, customer support is a crucial part of any software solution. With iCloud, you can rest assured that you will have quick and effective access to customer support to resolve any issues you may encounter. Between the knowledge-rich support forum and direct phone and chat support, iCloud makes sure you're never left to fend for yourself with your issues.

Alternatives

1. Google Drive

Google Drive is an online storage solution offered by Google, widely used for sharing documents and collaborative work.

Features

• Allows files to be stored online and accessed from any connected device.
• Integration with Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides for collaborative document creation and editing.
• Ability to share files and folders with others, even if they don't have a Google account
• Advanced search option to easily find files.

Pricing

• 15GB free storage.
• Paid plans available: 100GB for $1.99/month, 200GB for $2.99/month, 2TB for $9.99/month.

The versatility of Google Drive makes it a great alternative to iCloud, especially for Android users and those who often work with Google tools.

2. dropbox

Dropbox is a cloud storage service that stands out for its ease of use and cross-platform compatibility.

Features

• Seamless file sync across multiple devices.
• Easy file sharing with others, even if they don't have a Dropbox account
• Integration with numerous other software and services, including Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Cloud.
• Automatic backup feature for photos taken with mobile devices.

Pricing

• 2 GB free storage.
• Paid plans available: Plus for $9.99/month with 2TB of storage, Professional for $16.58/month with 3TB of storage.

Dropbox offers an intuitive user experience and broad compatibility, making it a solid iCloud alternative for those looking for a flexible cloud storage solution.

3. Microsoft OneDrive

Microsoft OneDrive is Microsoft's online storage service, seamlessly integrated with Windows and Office 365.

Features

• Anywhere access and easy sharing of files or content from any connected device.
• Integration with Microsoft Office for online editing and collaborative work on documents.
• Automatic backup of photos and videos from mobile devices.
• Advanced search features to find files quickly.

Pricing

• 5 GB free.
• Paid plans available: 100GB for $1.99/month, 1TB (with Office 365 Personal) for $6.99/month, 6TB (with Office 365 Family) for $9.99/month.

With its perfect integration into the Microsoft ecosystem like Windows, OneDrive is an ideal alternative to iCloud for Windows and Office 365 users.

Does iCloud work on Windows?

The interoperability of iCloud with Microsoft's Windows system gives users unparalleled flexibility in data management.

• The iCloud application specially designed for PC allows access and smooth data sync.
• Users can download this app directly from the Microsoft Store on Windows PC
• Photos, videos, emails, calendars, and files stored on iCloud are easily accessible via this application on a Windows PC
• Users can sync their Safari bookmarks with their browser on Microsoft's operating system.
• The app is a demonstration of Apple's commitment to offering a interoperability and all your mobile devices or PCs

The iCloud experience on Microsoft's operating system demonstrates once again that data can be easily managed and shared, regardless of the operating system used on all of your devices

FAQs

Is there a difference between iCloud and iCloud Drive?

In everyday language, these two terms refer to the same thing, namely Apple's cloud storage solution. However, the term “iCloud” includes a few other elements, such as the company's email service.

Why aren't some of my photos uploaded to iCloud?

The most likely reason is that automatic photo uploading to iCloud Drive has been disabled on your iOS device like iPhone. Just go to settings, tap on your Apple ID, then tap on “iCloud” followed by “photos” and activate the iCloud Photo Library and Photo Stream.

Is it safe to use iCloud Drive?

If you're worried about cybercriminals accessing your data, then you can rest easy using iCloud Drive. Since the infamous Apple iCloud photo leak in 2014, Apple has taken steps to make it harder to access iCloud accounts and files without proper authorization.

What does iCloud storage mean?

It is an Apple service that you allows you to safely store your files, photos, notes, contacts, contacts, passwords, and other data in the cloud. In addition, this technology allows you to keep all your files up to date, on all your devices, automatically.

So you can access these files anytime and anywhere, on any of your devices.

Is iCloud storage fast?

In terms of speed, the iCloud storage is fast. However, since this storage is based online, its upload and download speed depends on the efficiency of the network used.

Therefore, with good internet, the storage speed is extremely fast. Likewise, with a bad internet, storage speed will be reduced.

What can I save on my storage?

You can back up a lot of things

From photos and videos to notes, contacts, and passwords, you can keep your documents up to date in iCloud Drive.

Additionally, you can always check how much iCloud storage you're using in your device's Settings.

How do I delete photos from my device but keep them in the cloud?

It's very easy to delete photos from your device while keeping them on iCloud. Just be sure to turn off iCloud Photos first so that deleting content from your device doesn't affect iCloud content.

To deactivate photos, simply;

1. Go to the settings of your device like iPhone
2. Click on your name and choose “iCloud.”
3. Select Photos
4. Click on “Photos.”

Now, you can delete the photos from your device, and they will remain on your iCloud storage.

How do I free up storage space?

As with all storage, it It is important to always get rid of redundant files or documents in order to make room for new relevant files.

To do this, sort your photo files, email messages, and attachments according to their relevance and remove the ones that aren't useful. This will provide you with sufficient space.

Final Verdict

This brings us to the end of our iCloud Drive review. Although it is a extremely easy to use service which offers a large amount of storage space at an affordable price, there are several major issues, mostly related to security and privacy, that make it a less than ideal choice for cloud storage.

If you are already fully integrated into the Apple ecosystem, i.e. if you have an iPhone, Mac, and possibly an iPad, the way iCloud Drive is directly integrated into your devices makes it an interesting choice, especially with its 5GB of free storage.

As long as you don't have anything too sensitive to store online.

In the end, if you don't care about privacy, a service like the Google Drive service offers 15GB of free storage space, which is three times more than Apple's iCloud (although we have a guide that can help if your iCloud space is full).