iCloud Plus was introduced in iOS and iPadOS 15, but what exactly is it, and how do you use it on your iPhone or iPad?
If you’ve owned an Apple device for some time, you’re probably aware of iCloud, which is Apple’s content storage and syncing solution. ICloud+ is an upgrade that offers more features to existing subscribers at no extra cost. So let’s dive in and discuss what it is, the different plans, and what it will cost you.
What is iCloud Plus
You might now have noticed the newly named service when it rolled out in iOS and iPadOS 15. The name is similar, and what you gain is some features that aren’t available in iCloud, including Hide My Email, Private Relay, and enhanced HomeKit Secure Video storage. You can even add a custom email domain name that you already own to iCloud and use it with iCloud Mail.
If you’re on a paid iCloud plan, you’ve automatically been moved to iCloud Plus, and all of these features are available to you right now.
How To Check if You Have iCloud+
- Open the Settings app
- Tap on your name at the top
- Select iCloud
- Under Storage, you should see iCloud+ listed
If you see iCloud without the + sign, you’re on the free 5GB Apple Plan. To upgrade.
- Tap Manage Storage
- Select Change Storage Plan
- You’ll see your Upgrade Options
- Select the one that best suits your needs
If you are happy and don’t need any more storage, you can continue to use the free plan, which includes 5GB of storage.
iCloud Plus Included in Apple One
If you have Apple One, this service includes iCloud+, along with Apple Music, Apple TV+, Apple Arcade, and Apple Fitness+. To subscribe:
The amount of storage will depend on the Apple One plan you choose:
- Individual: $14.95 includes 50GB
- Family: $19.95 includes 200GB
- Premier: $29.95 includes 2TB
If you already have subscriptions to some of Apple’s Premium services, it might make sense to upgrade to Apple One.
Where Can I use iCloud Plus
Nothing changes here except the amount of storage and premium services. iCloud and iCloud+ are built into every Apple device running iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS.
You can also use iCloud.com to manage your account, find lost items, and restore certain types of content.
Can I Share my Storage with Family
Yes, the Family Sharing feature allows you to share your iCloud+ storage.
Your photos and documents will remain private, but you’ll all share the same storage amount.
Conclusion
iCloud+ is an exciting new upgrade that keeps your user data safe, private, and easier to manage. The best part is that it won’t increase iCloud storage fees! So if you’re already an iCloud+ user, let me know what feature you’re using most.
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