Alright, let’s talk about increasing iCloud storage without just parroting what @boswandelaar already mentioned (which was solid advice, by the way). Adding my spin to the mix, here’s how I’d approach this:
First things first, though—before you throw money at Apple, maybe ask yourself, do I need more storage or just better storage management? Trust me, sometimes it’s not about needing more space but offloading junk you didn’t even know was hogging your iCloud.
Alternatives to Buying More Storage
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Offload Big Files Elsewhere:
If you’re loaded with massive videos or photos, why not move them to an external hard drive or a dedicated service like Google Drive or Dropbox? (And yes, I know the irony of solving cloud storage problems with another cloud service.) -
Turn Off Unnecessary Backups:
Go to Settings > Your Name > iCloud, then Manage Storage. Check what’s eating up space. Do you really need every single app backed up? Nope. Turn it off for apps you don’t care about! -
Optimize iPhone Storage:
Under Settings > Photos > “Optimize iPhone Storage,” you can save smaller versions of your photos locally and keep originals in iCloud. But hey, if your iCloud’s already packed, you’ll need to clear some junk up there first. -
Use a Cleanup App:
Okay, @boswandelaar hinted at a cleanup app, but I’ll shamelessly throw this out: this iPhone cleaning tool is a lifesaver for decluttering duplicates and forgotten files. Like, why are there six identical selfies from the same angle in my gallery? It’s ruthless in the best way possible.
If You’re Set on Apple’s Storage Plans
- Don’t start big unless you have to. The 50GB plan is usually plenty until you start hoarding 4K videos or decide to back up your life since 2003.
- Family? The 200GB plan can be shared, so no need for everyone to suck up their own individual plans. (Just hope they don’t dump 12GB of memes in it.)
- The 2TB? Bruh, are you uploading your entire hard drive?! Joking aside, this is overkill for average users unless you’re a designer or vlogger or…just really into saving everything ever.
My (Unpopular?) Opinion:
iCloud subscription plans are a necessary evil, but let’s not blindly commit. The lock-in is real. Apple’s smart—they make it inconvenient to leave your photos and files with them and move elsewhere easily. So be strategic: only upgrade if you’re 100% sure you’ll stick with their ecosystem long-term. Otherwise, look into hybrid storage setups using multiple platforms.
Bottom line? Don’t just buy more space—make sure it’s space that’s actually being used efficiently. Any clutter-clearing genius like “Clever Cleaner” can ease your pain before you even hit “Buy.”
