What is iCloud?

iCloud allows people to store and view files in the cloud (on the web) and manage photos, contacts, or notes, among other things. For this, Apple makes space available in a data center. iCloud is a so-called cloud service.

iCloud is aimed at users of a Mac, iPhone and/or iPad. iCloud is standard on those devices. People who also have a Windows PC can install special software to also work on it in iCloud or open the storage service via the Internet.

iCloud consists of the following parts:

• iCloud Photos: (with My Photo Stream and Shared Albums) for storing, viewing, searching, and sharing photos and videos.
• iCloud Drive: for storing and viewing all kinds of files on different devices.
• Synchronization of apps like Mail, Contacts and Notes across devices. A change of, for example, a contact on the iPhone can therefore also be seen on the Mac.
• Backup: to automatically back up an iPhone or iPad, including settings and apps.
• Keychain: For storing passwords and credit card information.
• Find My: for finding an Apple device, such as an iPad, if it is lost.
• Family Sharing: For sharing iBooks Store and App Store purchases with family members.

iCloud comes standard on iPhone, iPad, and Mac. People who also have a Windows PC can install special software for this. Get started with the “iCloud for Windows” article.

iCloud users need an internet connection and an Apple ID. This Apple ID is free. Many Apple device users have already created and/or entered such an account during the installation of the device. No Apple ID yet? Read in the tip ‘Create an Apple ID’ how to create an Apple ID.

iCloud gives people 5 GB of free storage by default. The user can buy more storage space, for example because the space is full due to the many stored photos, videos or files. iCloud will automatically notify you when the storage space is almost full.

For expanding the storage space, there are the following choices:

• 50 GB storage for 99 cents;
• 200 GB for 2.99 euros;
• 2 TB for 9.99 euros.

These are the rates per month (prices 2021).

Getting started with iCloud Drive or iCloud Photos? Then read the article about iCloud on your device:

• Working with iCloud Drive on iPhone or iPad – iPhone or iPad
• Work with iCloud Photos on iPhone or iPad – iPhone or iPad
• Working with iCloud Drive on Mac – Mac
• Working with iCloud Drive on Windows – Windows
• Working with iCloud Drive over the web – Over the internet