iOS Assistant
 
...

8 Common Solutions to Fix the iCloud Upload Stuck Issue Easily

...

Are you dealing with the frustrating issue of iCloud upload being stuck on your device? Whether it shows iCloud upload stuck at zero KB, iCloud upload stuck on waiting, or even iCloud upload stuck in progress, this problem can prevent your photos, videos, and files from syncing properly.

In this guide, we'll explain why this happens and provide 8 proven fixes with step-by-step instructions to resolve all variations of the problem, including iCloud upload stuck at 0, iCloud upload stuck at 1, and more.

icloud upload stuck

 

Part 1. Why Is iCloud Upload Stuck on Waiting?

The iCloud upload stuck issues can be caused by various factors. Understanding the cause can help us find more effective solutions. The following are some possible reasons:

1. Network Connection Issues

Uploading data to iCloud requires a stable network connection. If your Wi-Fi signal is weak or the connection is unstable, the upload process may be interrupted or fail to complete.

2. Insufficient Storage Space

The free storage space provided by iCloud is limited. If your iCloud storage is full, new uploads will be unable to complete, causing the upload to get stuck.

3. Device Settings Issues

Certain device settings, such as improper iCloud configurations, can affect file uploads. Additionally, if the device is running other power-consuming or background tasks, it may impact the upload process.

4. iCloud Server Issues

Sometimes, the problem may not be with your device but with iCloud servers. You can visit the Apple System Status page to check if there are any service interruptions.

5. Bugs and Cache on Your Device

This is another underlying cause of the iCloud stuck uploading issue. Caches and bugs tend to interfere with the system, which may cause some iCloud files not to upload.

Part 2. How to Fix iCloud Upload Stuck in Process?

Here are some effective fixes for different causes of iCloud upload getting stuck.

Fix 1. Check Network Connection

A stable internet connection is essential for iCloud uploads. If your network is weak or inconsistent, you may encounter issues like iCloud upload stuck at zero KB or iCloud upload stuck on waiting. This is especially common when using public Wi-Fi or slow connections, where large file uploads can easily fail.

To check the network connection, follow the steps below:

Step 1. Open "Settings" on your iPhone/iPad.

Step 2. Tap "Wi-Fi" and ensure you're connected to a strong, stable network.

Step 3. Restart your router or switch to another Wi-Fi network if needed.

check network connection to fix icloud upload stuck on waiting

Fix 2. Check iCloud Storage Space

If iCloud storage is full, upload tasks will stop immediately, which is one of the key reasons many users overlook. Even having just a little space left can cause uploads to fail. Therefore, it's recommended to regularly check iCloud storage and clean up unnecessary data.

To check iCloud storage space, follow the steps below:

Step 1. Go to "Settings" and tap your "Apple ID" at the top.

Step 2. Select "iCloud" > "Manage Storage" to check if your iCloud is full.

Step 3. If storage is low, you can delete unnecessary files or purchase more storage.

check icloud storage to fix icloud upload stuck at zero

Fix 3. Check Low Power Mode

Low Power Mode limits background activities, including iCloud syncing. If enabled, it may cause iCloud upload stuck issues. Disabling it ensures your device can perform uploads without restrictions.

Here is how to do it:

Step 1. Open "Settings" and tap "Battery".

Step 2. Check if "Low Power Mode" is enabled, then toggle it off. Wait a few minutes and check the upload status.

disable low power mode to fix icloud upload stuck at 1

Fix 4. Force Restart iPhone

Temporary system glitches can cause iCloud upload to get stuck in progress or freeze at specific points, like iCloud upload stuck at 1%. A force restart can clear the system cache and refresh background processes. To force restart the iPhone, follow these steps:

iPhone 8 and later:

  • Press and release "Volume Up".
  • Press and release "Volume Down".
  • Hold the "Side" button until the Apple logo appears.

iPhone 7 and 7 Plus:

  • Hold "Volume Down" + "Side" button.
  • Release when the Apple logo appears.

iPhone 6s and earlier:

  • Hold "Home" + "Sleep/Wake" button.
  • Release when the Apple logo appears.

force restart the iphone to fix icloud upload stuck in progress

Fix 5. Update iOS or macOS

An outdated system version may contain bugs that affect iCloud's proper functioning. Apple typically fixes these issues in newer versions, so keeping your system updated is very important. If you haven't updated your system in a while, it's recommended to try this method first.

Here is how to update an iPhone:

Step 1. Go to "Settings" > "General" > "Software Update".

Step 2. Tap "Download and Install" if an update is available.

update ios to fix icloud upload stuck iphone

If your iCloud upload is stuck MacBook, you can click the Apple logo > "System Settings" > "Software Update", then click "Update Now" if an update is available to update your Mac to fix it.

update mac to fix icloud upload stuck macbook

Fix 6. Sign Out and Sign Back into iCloud

Account-related issues can also lead to iCloud upload stuck on waiting or syncing failures. Signing out and back in refreshes your iCloud connection. Here is how to do it:

Step 1. Go to "Settings" and tap your "Apple ID" at the top.

Step 2. Scroll down and tap "Sign Out". (Can't sign out of your Apple ID?)

Step 3. Wait a few seconds, then sign back in with your Apple ID and password.

re-sign in icloud to fix icloud upload stuck

Fix 7. Turn Off and Re-enable iCloud Photos

If the upload is stuck for photos or videos, resetting iCloud Photos may help. This action will restart the syncing process. Here is how to fix iCloud photos stuck:

Step 1. Go to "Settings" > "Apple ID" > "iCloud" > "Photos", then turn off "iCloud Photos".

Step 2. Wait a few seconds, turn it back on, and check if uploads resume.

restart icloud photos to fix icloud upload stuck at zero kb

Fix 8. Check Apple System Status

Sometimes, the issue is not on your end. Apple servers may be down or under maintenance, leading to iCloud upload being stuck. Visit the Apple System Status page to check for any iCloud-related service outages. If it's an issue with Apple's servers, you will need to wait for Apple to resolve it.

check apple system status to fix icloud upload stuck on waiting

Part 3. iCloud Alternative to Back Up iPhone

If you frequently encounter issues like iCloud upload stuck, it may be time to consider a more reliable alternative. Coolmuster iOS Assistant is a powerful tool that allows you to back up your iPhone without relying on iCloud or internet connectivity.

Key features of iOS Assistant:

  • Transfer files from iPhone to PC/Mac with ease.
  • Back up and restore all data on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod with a single click.
  • Preview and selectively transfer iOS files with ease.
  • Fully manage iTunes backups and iOS data directly on your computer.
  • Edit, add, or delete data on your iOS device straight from your PC or Mac.
  • Support a wide range of files, including contacts, messages, photos, videos, music, notes, bookmarks, books, calendars, apps, and more.
  • Compatible with the latest iOS 26, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone Air, and iPhone 17.

Here is how to transfer files from an iPhone to a computer selectively using iOS Assistant:

01Install and launch iOS Assistant on your PC, then connect your iPhone and tap "Trust" when prompted.

02Once your iPhone is detected, select the file type from the left panel, preview the details, and choose the files to transfer.

the main interface of ios assistant

03Click "Export", choose a save location on your PC, and start the transfer.

how to transfer iphone to pc without itunes using ios assistant

Video Tutorial:

Conclusion

When you encounter an iCloud upload getting stuck, there's no need to worry. In most cases, the solutions mentioned above can easily resolve the issue. If you want to prevent similar problems from happening again or need a more efficient way to manage your data, using Coolmuster iOS Assistant is a more stable and controllable option.

Related Articles:

[Guide] How to Fix Uploading to iCloud Paused Issue on iPhone?

10 Quick Ways to Fix iCloud Backup Stuck on Estimating Time Remaining

iPhone Downloading Messages from iCloud Stuck (Reasons & Fixes)

9 Quick Fixes to Fix iCloud Files Not Downloading on iPhone/iPad

    iPhone Recovery     8 Common Solutions to Fix the iCloud Upload Stuck Issue Easily
iOS Assistant
Back up and restore everything on iPhone/iPad/iPod with one click.
Freely manage iOS data and iTunes backup files on the computer.
Preview and selectively transfer files between iDevice and computer.
Widely support contacts, messages, photos, videos, music, notes, etc.
Terms & Conditions Privacy (UPDATED) License Agreement Uninstall Copyright © 2026 Coolmuster. All Rights Reserved.
feedbackFeedback