By Tariq Gardezi
iCloud is Apple’s cloud-service software that offers a wide variety of features, benefits, and use cases.
From keeping your information backed up to secure to providing continuity across all of your Apple devices, iCloud is the one-stop-shop for all of your data.
But how does iCloud work? Well, from its formation to daily uses, we are here to break it down for you. iCloud is an excellent resource to understand, so from what iCloud does to how to implement it, keep reading for more information.
How does iCloud Work?
As previously mentioned, iCloud is a cloud-based service system that keeps your content on your Apple devices secure.
But, what’s with all this cloud talk? What does “cloud-based” really mean?
Well, for starters, cloud-based data services have been on the rise in recent years. From Dropbox to Google, there have been new services popping up to give users the secure storage they need.
Cloud-based storage allows user-information to be stored on remote computers so that the user does not use up all of their local storage on their device. Additionally, a benefit of cloud-based storage is that your content can be accessed on any device as long as you are using the internet.
iCloud, however, is the Apple user’s epicenter. iCloud includes the user’s photo library, text messages, application purchases, and more. At the base, iCloud is free for the user and allows up to 5GB of storage space.
If you want to learn how to use iCloud, first sign up with an Apple ID and password, which is the key to unlock all of your iCloud content. iCloud, at its base, allows the user to backup their information on their iPhone or iPad to the iCloud to make sure it is safe in the case of a hardware or software malfunction.
Features of iCloud
Now that you know the foundation of how iCloud works, let’s get into some features that iCloud offers. Here we will cover the basics, such as the iCloud Photo Library, iCloud Backup, and Find my iPhone.
iCloud Photo Library
iCloud Photo Library is where you can keep your devices’ photos. Not only does this keep them backed up and secure, but you can also optimize the physical storage in your iPhone by sending your photos to the iCloud.
Additionally, the iCloud photo library allows you to view all of your photos, whether you are. With an internet connection, iCloud lets you see all of your pictures saved to the photo library.
To enable iCloud Photo Library and make sure it is up and running, go to Settings > Your Name > Optimize iPhone Storage. Additionally, you can make sure your iCloud photo library is enabled by going to Settings > Your Name > iCloud > Photos and select On.
iCloud Backup
iCloud Backup can keep your backup your device entirely and is tied to your Apple ID and password, and in the case of a hardware or software issue, it can restore your iPhone to its identical settings.
iCloud Backup backs up your photos, texts, apps, wallpaper, everything. If enabled, you can have peace of mind that, in the case of an issue, your phone will return to normal like nothing even happened.
If you want to enable iCloud Backup, go to Setting > Your Name > iCloud > iCloud backup and toggle it. Your device will backup to the iCloud once it is locked, plugged in, and on wifi.
Find My iPhone
iCloud allows you to track down your lost device with Find My iPhone. To enable, go to Settings > Your Name > Find My iPhone. If your iPhone is missing, you can track it by its location or ping it with a sound.
Benefits of iCloud
The essential features of iCloud make it an attractive option for keeping your data safe, but there are also other benefits of iCloud that can make it worthwhile. From continuity and add-ons, there are ways to personalize your iCloud usage.
Continuity Across Your Devices
If you are already ingrained in the “Apple Ecosystem,” meaning you use an iPhone, MacBook, iPad, etc., then having one account for all of these devices can be a great resource to keeping your data safe and secure without having to remember different username.
Additionally, when all of your devices are signed in under the same iCloud account, you can access all of your information across these devices. Pick up an iMessage conversation on your MacBook, start a photo gallery on your iPad, these little features help make the user experience better.
Software Integration
Unlike other companies like Dropbox or Google, iCloud is built into the software of iOS. This way, you do not have to download a third-party application to receive access to your data, and this also saves you from the headaches of having to remember usernames or passwords.
Various Add-Ons
As previously mentioned, iCloud gives the user a free 5GB of storage. However, if you wish to add more on, the prices may vary. For example, you can get 50GB for $0.99/month, 200GB for $2.99/month, or 2TB for $9.99/month.
Moreover, you can also use Apple Music, Apple News, Apple Arcade, or any other of those services. Even though you pay for some iCloud services, they all come together for a more streamlined experience.
Also, if you don’t have much data, you can stick with the free 5GB plan and be done with it. iCloud gives the user the option to add as much on as they wish, or stick with the bare minimum.
Implementing iCloud to Keep Your Data Safe
From understanding the basics of iCloud to its features and benefits, you can answer the question of how does iCloud work.
Depending on your needs, iCloud can be an excellent resource for keeping your data safe and secure. From storing your photos, purchases, and applications, your data is accessible only to you and safe from being lost.
Moreover, with continuity across all devices, it is easy to see your data wherever you are. With various add-ons, you can use as engrain yourself into the iCloud or Apple Ecosystem as much as you wish.
Want to add iCloud in your productivity routine? Feel free to read about the latest technology on our website for more information
Author: Mandy Kloppers
Mandy is a qualified therapist who treats depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, trauma, and many other types of mental health issues. She provides online therapy around the world for those needing support and also provides relationship counselling.
