How to Clear iCloud Storage
iCloud is a cloud storage service offered by Apple that allows users to store and sync their data across multiple devices. However, as with any storage service, the iCloud storage can become full, making it difficult for users to add new data or access their existing data. In this article, we will explore how to clear iCloud storage to free up space.
What is iCloud Storage?
iCloud storage is a service provided by Apple that allows users to store their photos, videos, documents, and other data in the cloud. The storage is linked to the user’s Apple ID, and can be accessed from any device that is signed in to that Apple ID.
The storage capacity of iCloud varies depending on the plan that the user has subscribed to. The free plan offers 5GB of storage, while the paid plans offer 50GB, 200GB, or 2TB of storage.
Why Should You Clear iCloud Storage?
Clearing iCloud storage is important for several reasons. Firstly, if the storage is full, you will not be able to add new data to iCloud. This can be problematic if you want to back up your device or store new photos and videos.
Secondly, if you have multiple devices linked to the same Apple ID, clearing iCloud storage will ensure that all devices have access to the same amount of storage. This is particularly important if you have a device with a small storage capacity, as it can quickly become filled up with iCloud data.
How to Check Your iCloud Storage
Before you begin clearing your iCloud storage, it is important to check how much storage space you have available. To do this, follow these steps:
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad
- Tap on your name at the top of the screen
- Tap on iCloud
- Tap on Manage Storage
You will now be able to see how much storage you have used, and how much storage you have available.
How to Clear iCloud Storage
There are several ways to clear iCloud storage. In this section, we will explore some of the most effective methods.
Delete Photos and Videos
Photos and videos are often the biggest culprits when it comes to filling up iCloud storage. To clear space, you can delete photos and videos that you no longer need or want. To do this, follow these steps:
- Open the Photos app on your iPhone or iPad
- Select the photos or videos that you want to delete
- Tap on the trash can icon
- Tap on Delete Photo or Delete Video
You can also delete entire albums by tapping on the Edit button in the Albums tab, selecting the album you want to delete, and tapping on the Delete button.
Delete Documents and Data
If you use iCloud to store documents and data, you can clear space by deleting files that you no longer need. To do this, follow these steps:
- Open the app that created the document or data
- Select the file that you want to delete
- Tap on the trash can icon
- Tap on Delete
You can also delete multiple files at once by selecting them and tapping on the Delete button.
Disable iCloud Backup
iCloud backup is a feature that automatically backs up your device to iCloud. While this can be useful, it can also take up a lot of space. If you do not need to back up your device to iCloud, you can disable this feature to clear space. To do this, follow these steps:
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad
- Tap on your name at the top of the screen
- Tap on iCloud
- Tap on iCloud Backup
- Toggle the switch next to iCloud Backup to off
You can also delete existing backups by tapping on the Manage Storage option and selecting the backup that you want to delete.
Upgrade Your iCloud Storage Plan
If none of the above methods work for you, you may want to consider upgrading your iCloud storage plan to get more space. To do this, follow these steps:
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad
- Tap on your name at the top of the screen
- Tap on iCloud
- Tap on Manage Storage
- Tap on Change Storage Plan
- Select the plan that you want to upgrade to
- Tap on Buy
You will now have more storage space available in iCloud.
Conclusion
iCloud storage is a useful service that allows you to store your data in the cloud. However, it can quickly become full, making it difficult to add new data or access your existing data. By following the methods outlined in this article, you can clear iCloud storage and free up space for new data.
