If there’s one thing that Apple product users battle with, it’s storage space. That’s why Apple provided iCloud to help users switch to cloud storage. Unfortunately, iCloud only gives users 5 GB of storage space. To ensure that your precious files are well preserved, Apple introduced iCloud Plus, a subscription-based cloud storage space. Apple’s iCloud Plus offers not just storage but a comprehensive suite of features designed to enhance your Apple ecosystem.
What is iCloud Plus?
iCloud+ is a subscription service that enhances the features of iCloud by offering additional capabilities such as iCloud Private Relay, Hide My Email, compatibility with HomeKit Secure Video, and ample storage capacity for users’ data.
While the iCloud Plus boasts impressive features, it is important to note that not all of these features are universally accessible across all devices, countries, or areas. The following are some of the key features of iCloud Plus storage:
#1. iCloud Private Relay
To safeguard one’s online privacy and protect against potential threats, it is advisable to conceal one’s IP address and browsing behavior when using the Safari web browser. This may be achieved without compromising browsing performance by ensuring the protection of unencrypted internet data with iCloud Plus.
#2. Hide My Email
With iCloud Plus, you can generate distinct and arbitrary email addresses that redirect correspondence to your individual inbox, enabling the reception of electronic mail without the necessity of divulging your own email address.
#3. HomeKit Secure Video
To ensure the privacy and security of your home surveillance system, you can integrate your security cameras with the Home app. This integration allows you to conveniently record and access your footage from any location.
#4. Custom Email Domain
Users can enhance the personalization of their iCloud Mail email address by using a custom domain name. It is possible to extend invitations to acquaintances and relatives, enabling them to use the same domain in conjunction with their respective iCloud Mail accounts.
iCloud Pricing
iCloud pricing varies from country to country. But if you’re in the United States, you can check out the price list below. If you are in a region outside of the United States, then you have to visit Apple Support to get your location’s exact price list.
- 50GB: $0.99
- 200GB: $2.99
- 2TB: $9.99
- 6TB: $29.99
- 12TB: $59.99
Pros of iCloud Plus Storage
The following are some of the pros of using iCloud storage:
#1. Ease of Use
The concept of “ease of use” refers to the level of simplicity and user-friendliness associated with a certain product, system, or interface. Apple has consistently placed a high emphasis on user-friendliness across its product range, and this principle extends to its iCloud service as well. iCloud encompasses a comprehensive range of cloud-based functionalities that enable users to effectively synchronize and safeguard various forms of data, including documents, images, calendar events, messages, and videos, among others, from their respective devices. Moreover, the user-friendly nature of iCloud Plus is evident in its seamless integration of various distinctive functionalities
#2. Integrates Well With the Apple Ecosystem
The iCloud storage may be accessed from various Apple devices, such as the iPhone, MacBook, iMac, and Apple Watch, allowing for synchronization over a Wi-Fi connection at the user’s convenience. There will no longer be a requirement to undergo the process of data transfer via personal computer.
#3. iCloud+ Package Comes With Extra Features
Apple’s iCloud+ plan includes extra services. Upon upgrading, users will gain access to exclusive features such as the following:
- iCloud Private Relay (Beta)
- Hide My Email
- Custom Email Domain
- HomeKit Secure Video Support
Cons of an iCloud+ Subscription
The fact that iCloud Plus comes with additional features doesn’t mean everyone likes it. The following are some of the cons of iCloud Plus:
#1. iCloud+ Charges Steep Monthly Fees
The issue of fees associated with iCloud+ has emerged as a prominent topic of discussion. To worsen things, iCloud Plus users in Canada have to pay more than users in the United States for the same storage space.
#2. iCloud Can Be Slow to Sync
It is worth noting that the synchronization process of iCloud occasionally has delays in loading. The issue of server capacity commonly affects iCloud, necessitating a period of time for the system to align with the incoming demand.
#3. You Need a Lot of Storage to Use Every iCloud+ Service
Generally, iCloud includes a range of beneficial services, namely backup, photos, calendars, keychains, notes, and Safari. Nevertheless, it is highly probable that one would need to utilize a substantial amount of commercial storage capacity in order to fully optimize the functionality of iCloud+.
What Is the Difference Between ICloud and ICloud Plus?
iCloud serves as Apple’s primary cloud storage service, providing users with a complimentary storage capacity of 5 GB. In contrast, iCloud+ represents a subscription-based offering that encompasses additional privacy-enhancing functionalities, such as private relays, as well as expanded storage capabilities. Notably, iCloud+ keeps all of the fundamental features offered by the original iCloud service.
What Is the Point of iCloud+?
The principal objective of iCloud+ is to augment privacy and provide supplementary advantages beyond the fundamental iCloud service. The service offers many functionalities, such as Private Relay, which enhances internet privacy; Hide My Email, which enhances email privacy; increased storage capacity; and access to HomeKit Secure Video, catering to those seeking heightened levels of privacy and security in their online and connected activities.
Does iCloud Plus Cost Money?
Yes, you’ll have to pay to access iCloud+. This is because iCloud is an Apple subscription service that charges fees. The service has a recurring monthly fee, which varies depending on the allocated storage capacity and location.
What Happens When You Upgrade to iCloud Plus?
When you upgrade to iCloud+, you’ll have access to a multitude of supplementary features and advantages that extend beyond the fundamental offerings of the standard iCloud service.
What Happens If I Don’t Want iCloud Plus?
iCloud+ is a discretionary membership service, and there is no obligation for users to subscribe to it. This simply means that if the free tier of iCloud fulfills your requirements, that’s fine. In the event that your storage requirements exceed the allocated 5 GB of complimentary space, it is possible to get supplementary iCloud storage independently, without subscribing to iCloud+, in order to accommodate your expanded storage needs.
Will I Lose My Photos if I Cancel iCloud?
If you cancel your iCloud subscription or downgrade to a storage plan that offers less storage space than you are currently using, your photos and other iCloud data will not be immediately deleted. Apple provides a grace period during which you can either upgrade your iCloud storage plan again or remove some of your data to bring it within the limits of your new plan. During this grace period, your photos should still be accessible. However, if you exceed your new storage limit and do not take any action to reduce your storage usage or upgrade your plan, then after the grace period ends, your device may stop automatically backing up to iCloud, and you may no longer be able to store new photos, videos, or other data in iCloud until you free up space or upgrade your plan
What Happens If You Don’t Renew iCloud Storage?
If you don’t renew your iCloud storage subscription, your iCloud storage will fill up. This will cause you to lose data, stop device backups, be unable to use iCloud services and have your iCloud data deleted.
Can I Delete Photos From iPhone and Keep them on iCloud?
Yes, you can delete photos from your iPhone while keeping them stored in iCloud if you have iCloud Photos (formerly known as iCloud Photo Library) enabled. When you delete a photo from your iPhone with iCloud Photos turned on, it will also be deleted from the device but remain in your iCloud Photo Library, accessible from other devices signed in with the same iCloud account. This feature helps you save local storage space on your iPhone while keeping your photos securely stored in the cloud.
Why Is My iCloud Storage Full After Deleting Photos?
Your iCloud storage might remain full after deleting photos due to the “Recently Deleted” album, other types of data using iCloud storage shared albums, and large email attachments. To free up space, empty the “Recently Deleted” album, manage other iCloud data, review shared albums, and clear out emails with attachments. Consider upgrading your iCloud storage plan if needed.
Is it Safe to Use iCloud Plus?
Sure, it is quite safe. In fact, iCloud Plus provides more privacy and storage capacity for your device than regular iCloud.
How Much is 2TB of iCloud Storage?
The price of 2 TB of iCloud storage depends on your location. For subscribers in the United States, iCloud 2TB storage costs $9.99, while it’s $12.99 for subscribers in Canada.
Is iCloud 2TB Worth It?
Sure, it is. The iCloud 2TB storage plan may be considered a worthwhile investment for individuals who possess a substantial volume of data that requires storage, utilize numerous Apple devices, and prioritize the convenience and security features offered by iCloud.
What Is iCloud Keychain?
Truth be told, a good number of Apple product users know what the Keychain is all about. For its network of connected devices and services, Apple offers iCloud Keychain as a simple password management and syncing solution. Generally, the iCloud keychain helps to secure storage and manage users’ passwords, credit card details, and other confidential data on various Apple devices, such as iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch. It simplifies the process of managing passwords and sensitive information while providing strong security measures to protect your data across all your Apple devices.
Features of iCloud Keychain
The following are some of the unique features of iCloud Keychain:
#1. Cross-Device Synchronization
Enabling iCloud Keychain on a single Apple device, such as an iPhone, enables the synchronization of stored passwords and credit card information across all other Apple devices associated with the same Apple ID. This simply means that users can conveniently and efficiently access saved passwords across multiple Apple devices, including iPhones, Macs, iPads, and Apple Watches.
#2. Password Generation
Another feature that makes the iCloud keychain astounding is that it can generate strong and complex passwords for you when you’re creating new accounts or changing passwords. These passwords are designed to be difficult for hackers to guess, which enhances the security of your online accounts. It also eliminates the need to come up with your own passwords and remember them.
#3. AutoFill
The AutoFill capability of iCloud Keychain is regarded as one of its most advantageous features. When accessing a website or application that necessitates user authentication, iCloud Keychain has the capability to automatically populate the corresponding username and password fields, thereby alleviating the need for manual input during subsequent login attempts. Additionally, it has the capability to automatically populate credit card details during online transactions, expediting and simplifying the checkout procedure.
#4. Security
Ensuring security is of utmost importance in the implementation of iCloud Keychain. Strong encryption algorithms protect the stored passwords and credit card information, making them inaccessible without the corresponding iCloud Keychain password. Without proper authorization, Apple is unable to access this data. Furthermore, users have the option to activate two-factor authentication as an additional measure to enhance security.
#5. Password Auditing
Using iCloud Keychain can enhance one’s security practices by effectively recognizing passwords that are either weak or repeated. The system has the capability to propose more robust alternatives for passwords and remind users to update passwords for specific accounts in order to enhance overall security.
#6. Compatibility
iCloud Keychain has been specifically developed to effortlessly integrate with Apple’s Safari web browser as well as with applications that are compatible with it. Although the capability is primarily associated with the Apple environment, it is also possible to access stored passwords via the iCloud website on the web.
#7. Privacy
Apple prioritizes user privacy as a core principle. The architecture of iCloud Keychain prioritizes privacy, with Apple incorporating technologies such as end-to-end encryption and on-device processing to safeguard sensitive information and maintain its security and privacy.
What Is iCloud Backup?
iCloud Backup is a feature offered by Apple’s iCloud service that allows users to automatically back up the data and settings on their iOS devices (such as iPhones and iPads) to the cloud. This feature is designed to ensure that your important data is securely stored in case of device loss, damage, or if you need to set up a new device. iCloud Backup is a convenient and reliable way to safeguard your iOS device’s information.
What is iCloud Drive?
iCloud Drive is primarily designed for storing and managing files and documents. It allows users to store files of various types, including photos, videos, documents, and more, in the cloud. These files can then be accessed and synchronized across all of a user’s Apple devices that are signed in with the same Apple ID. This seamless integration makes it easy for users to access their files from their Mac, iPhone, iPad, or even a web browser.
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