Do you want to sync up all the data on your devices seamlessly? Luckily, Apple has got you covered. With their cloud service, sharing media on multiple platforms is easy. We have created an easy to follow, step by step guide on how you can set up and use iCloud.

Table of Contents
Benefits
There are multiple ways to share files; what makes iCloud unique, you may ask. Unlike other methods such as AirDrop, iCloud passively sends everything. You won't have to transfer anything manually. It's all done whenever initially creating the file. Multiple hours are saved, which would've otherwise be used to select and send the data. Moreover, if you like only to send selective media, then this feature can be turned off, making it versatile and suitable for everyone.
iCloud right out of the box is a free service. You get 5GB of free cloud space, saving a lot of money. You won't have to purchase anything, but only spend a few minutes setting up your account. iCloud has seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem. If you own an Apple product, you won't even notice it's existence. Everything is automated and effortless.
How To Set Up iCloud On iPhone and iPad
Before using iCloud and its features, you'll need to set it up first. Fortunately, this is a reasonably straightforward process. Whenever first operating your iPhone or iPad, you'll have to create an Apple ID that is linked to your iCloud. If you don't have an iCloud ID, don't panic. Here's is how to create one.
- Go to Settings.
- Click on "Sign-in into your iPhone."
- You'll be asked for your Apple ID.
- Select "Don't have an Apple ID or forgot it?"
- Choose "Create Apple ID."
- Enter Your Date of Birth.
- Give your first and last name when asked.
- Tap "Get a free iCloud email address."
- Select an Email ID of your choice.
- Click "Next."
- Verify your phone number and code.
- Go to settings again.
- Scroll down to "Photos."
- Tap on it.
- Enable the "iCloud Photos" option to sync up your device and cloud media automatically.
- Open up settings once more,
- Tap on your name.
- Choose "iCloud."
- Swipe down to "iCloud backup" and click on it.
- Enable the option.
- Backups are made when your iPhone is charging and connected to the internet.
- You can ignore the last few steps if you don't wish to backup your data automatically.
- Alternatively, click on "Backup now," if the previously mentioned options are disabled.
How To Set Up iCloud On Mac and PC
Once you've set up your iCloud on your iPhone and iPad, the next step would be to set it up on your Mac or PC. The process is simple and will only take a few minutes. Here is how to do it.
- Open your browser.
- Click here.
- Enter your Apple ID that you had previously created on your iPhone.
- Type in the password.
- Now you're signed in and free to access any of the files.
- It should be noted that editing anything on iCloud requires a verification code that will be sent to your iPhone.
Hidden iCloud Features
There are various other useful hidden features in iCloud. Here are a few of them.
Hidden Feature 1
iCloud only backs up data when on WiFi. However, if you want to change this, you can do so from the settings. Your iPhone has the option also to do the process when on data.
Hidden Feature 2
By default, whenever uploading a photo to iCloud, your iPhone has a compressed version of it. Storage is not unnecessarily used up this way. Although, a few people prefer to keep the original file. Fortunately, Apple allows you to switch this off. Hence, if you took a photo in the RAW format, it will be stored and displayed in that as well.
- Locate the previously explained "iCloud Photos" option.
- Make sure "Download and Keep Storage" is selected.
Hidden Feature 3
Many iCloud users are unaware that deleting a media on your device also deletes it from your cloud. As a result of this, many files have accidentally been deleted. There is no need to worry if you're a victim of this. You can restore your data quickly. Here is how to do it.
- Go to iCloud on your phone, Mac, iPad, or PC.
- Click on the "iCloud Photos" option.
- On the left-hand panel, there will be a "Recently Deleted" section.
- Select this.
- Click on the photo you want to recover.
- From here, you can choose "Recover" or "Delete Permanently."
Drawbacks of iCloud
Before committing to a particular service, it's essential to know its flaws. iCloud has one serious disadvantage. We mentioned that Apple's cloud service is free out of the box for 5GB. We live in an era where a photo or video quality rivals that of professional-grade cameras. Modes like 4K, 60FPS for slow-motion seem futuristic for a phone to have. These take up a lot of space on your device as well. 5GB isn't enough to store that amount of data. You'll eventually run out of space and have to get a higher storage variant, which is going to cost.
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