The ever-growing reliance on cloud storage has been a blessing and a curse for many people. As technologies continue to evolve, so too do our needs for more and more data storage space.
The problem is that this need can often reach its limit with iCloud storage, leaving us frustrated and at a loss as to what to do in order to free up some much needed space.
Fortunately, there are still ways we may manage our iCloud storage, even when it’s feeling full.
1. Transfer your Photos and Videos
One way you can create some room on iCloud is by transferring photos and videos from your device to a computer or other external hard drive. This helps take the load off of your iCloud account and allows you more freedom in storing large files elsewhere.
2. Optimize Your Backup Settings
Another great tip for dealing with full iCloud storage is optimizing the device’s backup settings. By only backing up the apps and photos that are most important or used frequently, you will be able to save yourself some room without forfeiting any memories or essential files.
3. Delete Unnecessary Files
Review the files stored in iCloud and look into deleting any unnecessary items, such as old documents or emails that no longer serve a purpose. Not only will this clear up some room but it will also make it easier to organize what’s left over in the future.
4. Upgrade Your Plan
If all else fails, consider upgrading your plan to gain access to more available space within your account.
Upgrading comes with additional benefits like faster backups and extended security features as well as more room for file storage.
You can check the Apple charges history and determine how much you have been spending before and if you are able to invest more money in iCloud.
5. Use Apple Music Library Matching Feature
Utilize Apple Music’s Library Matching feature which allows users to access their music from multiple devices without having them all stored locally on each device’s hard drive – freeing up valuable space on both local drives AND the iCloud account!
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6. Clean out Messages App Data
Message conversations tend to accumulate over time. To help keep them under control using the Messages app “Reduce Storage” feature, which automatically deletes older message threads freeing up some valuable cloud space in return.
7. Sync Across Devices Manually
Automatically syncing across multiple devices can cause redundant data to be replicated, resulting in wasted storage space and potentially crashing one device or account.
To avoid these issues, manually sync your devices for superior data management.
8. Store Bigger Files Elsewhere
To save up precious storage space in your iCloud account, it’s wise to consider keeping large items such as videos and audio recordings elsewhere like Google Drive or Dropbox.
This way, you’ll have plenty of room for all the other data stored within your cloud!
9. Disable Photo Stream Feature
If you’re already syncing photos between devices, then DISABLE the Photo Stream feature so images don’t get uploaded twice (which would double their size).
This feature operates without user intervention but, unfortunately, adds extra clutter & hinders optimal performance of an otherwise mostly lean & clean system.
10. Review App Data usage
To preserve the iCloud storage and maximize its usefulness, take some time every month or quarter to review the data usage of each app.
If there are any apps that seem to be using too much space, consider deleting them so you can use those resources elsewhere.
11. Understand System Settings
Taking the time to become acquainted with system settings will offer users increased control over their uploaded/stored data, enabling them to manage cloud resources autonomously and efficiently – particularly when dealing with issues of capacity.
12. Revert Back To On-Device Storage Options
Remember that there are also local options for storing data, which should be utilized whenever possible; this is especially true when you have limited cloud storage or privacy considerations.
While these methods may take longer to set up, it will be well worth it in the end as you’ll gain a greater sense of security and peace of mind.
Closing Thoughts
Dealing with a full iCloud account can be frustrating but not impossible thanks to these twelve tips above.
Whether it’s taking large files in a different location, deleting unnecessary items, upgrading plans, or utilizing photo stream features – there are always solutions available if you know where to look.
