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7 Common iCloud Issues And How to Fix Them [2026 Latest]

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iCloud is an online service offered by Apple to help manage files on iPhone, iPad, iPod devices. But do you really know every inch of iCloud, except for its backup function? Have you ever met some iCloud problems in using it? For example, what will you if you are told to pay for more storage when iCloud space gets squeezed? But actually, aside from that, some smart tips and tricks also allow you to free up more space.

So in this passage, we have summarized common iCloud problems and given the related quick fixes. Before that, let's have a thorough understanding of iCloud.

icloud issues

Directory
 

Part 1: Common iCloud Issues & Solutions

1: iCloud Storage Is Full

iCloud provides only 5 GB of free storage, which can quickly be filled up with backups, photos, videos, documents, and app data. Once your iCloud storage is full, you may encounter issues such as being unable to back up your device or save new photos and files. To avoid disruptions, it's important to regularly manage and free up space in your iCloud account.

Solution 1: Free Up Space by Deleting Unnecessary Files

  1. Open "Settings" > [your name] > "iCloud" > "Manage Storage".
  2. Tap on apps or categories (such as Photos, Backups) to see what's taking up space.
  3. Delete old backups, apps, or photos that you no longer need. (Free up More Storage Space on iCloud)

check the icloud storage

Solution 2: Upgrade Your iCloud Storage Plan

  1. Go to "Settings" > [your name] > "iCloud" > "Manage Storage".
  2. Tap "Change Storage Plan" and choose a plan that suits your needs (50 GB, 200 GB, or 2 TB).

purchase more icloud storage

Solution 3: Disable iCloud Backup for Non-Essential Apps

  1. Open "Settings" > [your name] > "iCloud" > "iCloud Backup".
  2. Select "Manage Storage" and turn off backup for apps that aren't crucial
  3. You can manually back up important apps by selecting specific ones under iCloud Backup.
  4. To free up more storage space on iCloud, deleting iCloud backup that have no uses is also a good way.

delete old backups to free up icloud storage

Solution 4: Use Alternative Storage Solutions

  1. If iCloud storage is still insufficient, consider moving some files to third-party cloud services such as Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive.
  2. You can also choose to back up your iPhone/iPad to computer or any other external hard drives instead.

Solution 5: Optimize Photos Storage

  1. Open "Settings" > "Photos".
  2. Enable "Optimize iPhone Storage" to reduce the space photos and videos take up on your device by keeping full-resolution files in iCloud, while storing smaller versions locally.

By following these steps, you can manage your iCloud storage effectively and prevent future storage issues.

2: iCloud Not Syncing Data

When iCloud is not syncing data, it can be frustrating because your photos, contacts, messages, or other files may not stay up to date across devices. This issue is usually caused by unstable internet connections, incorrect iCloud settings, insufficient storage space, outdated system versions, or temporary iCloud service outages. Fortunately, most iCloud syncing problems can be fixed with a few simple checks and adjustments.

Solution 1: Check Your Internet Connection

Make sure your device is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network. iCloud syncing may pause on slow or unstable connections.

check the network connection

Solution 2: Verify iCloud Settings

Go to "Settings > [your name] > iCloud" and ensure the data types you want to sync (Photos, Contacts, iCloud Drive, etc.) are turned on.

Solution 3: Check iCloud Storage Space

Open "Settings > [your name] > iCloud > Manage Storage". If storage is full, delete unnecessary files or upgrade your iCloud plan.

Solution 4: Restart Your Device

A simple restart can refresh system processes and fix temporary syncing glitches.

force restart the iphone to fix photos not backing up to icloud

Solution 5: Update iOS or macOS

Go to "Settings > General > Software Update" and install the latest system version, as outdated software may cause sync issues.

update ios to fix photos not backing up to icloud

Solution 5: Sign Out and Sign Back Into iCloud

  1. Go to "Settings > [your name]"
  2. Tap "Sign Out" and confirm.
  3. Restart your device, then sign in again with your Apple ID.

resign in icloud account to fix photos not backing up to icloud

Solution 6: Check Apple System Status

Visit Apple's System Status page to see if iCloud services are temporarily unavailable.

check apple system status to fix repeated icloud sign in request

3: iCloud Backup Failed

The "iCloud Backup Failed" error usually happens when your device can't connect to Apple's servers or doesn't have enough available storage. Common causes include unstable Wi-Fi, low battery, outdated iOS, iCloud storage limits, or temporary iCloud system issues. The good news is that most of these problems can be fixed with a few simple checks and settings adjustments.

Solution 1: Check Your Wi-Fi Connection

iCloud backup requires a stable Wi-Fi network.

  1. Open "Settings" > "Wi-Fi".
  2. Make sure Wi-Fi is turned on and connected to a strong network.
  3. If needed, switch to another network or restart your router.

Solution 2: Make Sure iCloud Backup Is Enabled

Sometimes the backup option is turned off accidentally.

  1. Go to "Settings" > [your name] > "iCloud".
  2. Tap "iCloud Backup".
  3. Turn on "iCloud Backup" and tap "Back Up Now".

enable automatic backup to fix uploading data to icloud stuck at 1 minute

Solution 3: Check Available iCloud Storage

Insufficient storage is a very common reason for backup failure.

  1. Open "Settings" > [your name] > "iCloud".
  2. Tap "Manage Storage".
  3. Delete unnecessary backups or tap "Buy More Storage".

Solution 4: Update iOS to the Latest Version

An outdated system may cause compatibility issues.

  1. Go to "Settings" > "General".
  2. Tap "Software Update".
  3. Download and install any available update.

Solution 5: Ensure Enough Battery Power

iCloud backup won't run if the battery is too low.

  1. Charge your iPhone to at least 50%.
  2. Keep it plugged in while tapping "Back Up Now".

Solution 6: Sign Out and Sign Back Into iCloud

Refreshing your iCloud account can fix sync errors.

  1. Go to "Settings" > [your name].
  2. Tap "Sign Out", then restart your iPhone.
  3. Sign in again and try the backup once more.

4: iCloud Photos Not Updating

When iCloud Photos is not updating, it usually means there is a problem with your network, Apple ID settings, storage space, or device configuration. Sometimes the sync process pauses quietly due to low battery, poor Wi-Fi, or temporary iCloud server issues. The good news is that most of these problems are easy to fix with a few quick checks.

Solution 1. Check Internet Connection

iCloud Photos needs a stable Wi-Fi connection.

  1. Open "Settings" > "Wi-Fi".
  2. Make sure you are connected to a strong network.
  3. Try switching Wi-Fi off and on again.

Solution 2. Make Sure iCloud Photos Is Enabled

  1. Go to "Settings" > [your name] > "iCloud" > "Photos".
  2. Turn on "iCloud Photos".
  3. Wait a few minutes for syncing to start.

access icloud photos on iphone

Solution 3. Check iCloud Storage Space

If iCloud storage is full, photos will stop syncing.

  1. Open "Settings" > [your name] > "iCloud".
  2. Tap "Manage Storage".
  3. Free up space or tap "Change Storage Plan".

Solution 4. Turn Off Low Power Mode

Low Power Mode can pause photo syncing.

  1. Go to "Settings" > "Battery".
  2. Turn off "Low Power Mode".

turn off low power mode to fix iphone battery draining after ios 18 update

Solution 5. Sign Out and Sign Back Into iCloud

This can fix account-related sync issues.

  1. Go to "Settings" > [your name].
  2. Tap "Sign Out".
  3. Restart your device and sign in again.

5: Unable to Sign In to iCloud

If you are unable to sign in to iCloud or iCloud sign-in request is repeated, it may be due to incorrect account information, an unstable network connection, temporary system errors, or issues with Apple's servers. This problem can prevent data syncing and backups, but in most cases, it can be resolved by adjusting settings or performing a few simple checks.

Solution 1: Check Apple ID and Password

Make sure you are using the correct Apple ID and password. Check for typing errors or incorrect capitalization. If necessary, tap "Forgot Apple ID or password" and follow the on-screen instructions to reset it.

Solution 2: Check Date and Time Settings

Incorrect date and time settings may cause iCloud sign-in failures. Go to Settings > General > Date & Time, then enable "Set Automatically".

check date and time to fix iphone cannot connect to app store

More Solutions

  • Check Your Internet Connection
  • Restart Your Device
  • Check Apple System Status
  • Update Your Device
  • Sign Out and Sign In Again

6: iCloud Drive Files Missing

When files go missing from iCloud Drive, it can be worrying and confusing. This issue may happen due to unstable internet connections, incorrect iCloud settings, accidental deletion, sync delays, or using different Apple IDs on multiple devices. In many cases, the files are not permanently lost but temporarily unavailable or stored in another location within iCloud.

Main Solution: Check iCloud Drive Settings and Sync Status

  1. On your iPhone or iPad, go to Settings > tap your Apple ID > iCloud.
  2. Make sure iCloud Drive is turned on. If not, tap the toggle to enable it.
  3. Tap "iCloud Drive" and confirm that the apps you use to store files are allowed to sync.
  4. Ensure your device is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network and wait a few minutes for files to resync.

More Solutions:

You can also try the following methods together if the issue persists:

  • Check the "Recently Deleted" folder in the Files app to see if the missing files were accidentally removed.
  • Sign out of iCloud and sign back in to refresh the iCloud connection.
  • Restart your device to fix temporary system or sync glitches.
  • Update your device to the latest iOS or iPadOS version to avoid known bugs.
  • Visit iCloud.com on a browser, sign in with your Apple ID, and check whether the files are visible there.
  • Make sure you are logged in with the same Apple ID on all devices and that iCloud storage is not full.

7: iCloud Calendar or Contacts Not Syncing

If your iCloud Calendar or Contacts are not syncing properly, it is usually caused by network issues, incorrect iCloud settings, outdated system versions, or temporary iCloud server problems. In some cases, syncing may stop after switching devices, changing Apple IDs, or disabling certain iCloud options by accident. The good news is that most of these issues can be fixed with a few simple checks and adjustments.

Solution 1: Check iCloud Sync Settings

Make sure Calendar and Contacts syncing is enabled on your device.

  1. Open Settings on your iPhone or iPad.
  2. Tap your Apple ID name at the top.
  3. Choose "iCloud".
  4. Turn on "Contacts" and "Calendars".
  5. Wait a few minutes to see if syncing resumes.

Solution 2: Sign Out of iCloud and Sign In Again

Refreshing your iCloud account can fix temporary sync glitches.

  1. Go to Settings > Apple ID.
  2. Scroll down and tap "Sign Out".
  3. Restart your device.
  4. Sign back in and re-enable "Contacts" and "Calendars".

re-enable icloud calendars to fix everything on my iphone calendar disappeared

More Solutions:

If the issue still exists, you can also try the following fixes together:

  • Check your internet connection and switch between Wi-Fi and cellular data.
  • Make sure you are using the same Apple ID on all devices.
  • Update your iPhone or iPad to the latest iOS version.
  • Restart your device to clear temporary system errors.
  • Check iCloud system status to confirm that Contacts and Calendar services are working normally.

Part 2: Best iCloud Alternative to Back up and Restore Your iPhone Data

Coolmuster iOS Assistant is a powerful iPhone data management tool that lets you easily back up, restore, and organize your iOS content without relying on iCloud or iTunes. It automatically scans your device files, displays them clearly, and supports exporting, importing, and managing a wide range of data types. Whether you want to safeguard contacts, messages, photos, or more, this software simplifies the entire process and gives you full control over your iPhone, iPad, or iPod data.

Key features of Coolmuster iOS Assistant:

  • Back up and restore your iPhone/iPad data on computer with one click.
  • Preview and select data before backing up and restoring.
  • Export contacts, messages, photos, videos, and music from iPhone to computer, and vice versa.
  • Uninstall unwanted apps and edit content directly on your computer.
  • Compatible with iPhone 17/16/15/14/13/12/11/X/8/7/6, and more.

Free download Coolmuster iOS Assistant on your computer now:

How to Back Up and Restore iPhone Data with Coolmuster iOS Assistant:

01 Connect and Recognize Device

Launch the software on your computer and connect your iPhone with a USB cable. When prompted on the phone, tap "Trust" and then click "Continue" to let the program detect your device.

main interface of ios assistant

02 Back Up iOS Data

Go to the Super Toolkit section and select the "iTunes Backup & Restore" tab. Choose the "Backup" option, pick your device, choose a save location, and click "OK" to start backing up your iPhone data.

backup ios data to itunes

03 Restore Data to Your iPhone

In the same Super Toolkit area, click "Restore", select the backup file you want to restore, and then click "OK" to transfer all selected backup content back to your iPhone.

import itunes backup

Video Guide:

Part 3: FAQs about iCloud Backup

Q1: How much iCloud storage do I need for my backup?

iCloud provides 5GB of free storage by default. If your device data exceeds this, you will need to purchase additional storage.

Steps to check and upgrade iCloud storage:

  1. Open "Settings" on your iPhone or iPad.
  2. Tap your name at the top, then select "iCloud" > "Manage Storage" or "iCloud Storage".
  3. Tap "Buy More Storage" or "Change Storage Plan" and choose a plan that fits your backup needs.

Q2: Why is my iCloud backup taking so long or failing?

Slow or failed iCloud backups are usually caused by:

  • Poor Wi-Fi connection
  • Insufficient iCloud storage
  • iCloud server issues
  • Device not being connected to power

Steps to fix:

  1. Make sure your device is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network.
  2. Check available iCloud storage under "Settings" > [your name] > "iCloud" > "Manage Storage".
  3. Plug your device into a charger and lock the screen.
  4. Try restarting your device and backing up again.

Q3: Can I choose which apps or data to back up in iCloud?

Yes, you can select which apps are included in your backup. Below are the Steps:

  1. Go to "Settings" > [your name] > "iCloud" > "Manage Storage" > "Backups".
  2. Select your device from the list.
  3. Toggle on or off the apps you want to include or exclude in the backup.

Q4: Can I back up multiple devices to the same iCloud account?

Yes, iCloud supports multiple devices under the same Apple ID. Each device has its own separate backup. Just make sure you have enough storage to accommodate all backups.

Steps to check backups for multiple devices:

  1. Go to "Settings" > [your name] > "iCloud" > "Manage Storage" > "Backups".
  2. You'll see all devices linked to your iCloud account and their backup sizes.

Q5: How do I check when my last iCloud backup occurred?

  1. Open "Settings" and tap your name at the top.
  2. Select "iCloud" > "iCloud Backup".
  3. Look under "Back Up Now"; it will display the date and time of your last successful backup.

Summary

iCloud backup and sync issues often stem from network problems, insufficient storage space, or incorrect settings. Most sync or backup problems can be resolved by checking iCloud settings, managing storage space, ensuring a stable Wi-Fi connection, and updating your device. Regularly monitoring backups and selectively backing up specific applications can also help prevent data loss and shorten backup times.

While iCloud is convenient, having a reliable alternative ensures your iPhone data is always safe and easily accessible. For a faster and more flexible backup solution, you can try Coolmuster iOS Assistant, a powerful iPhone backup and recovery tool.

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