Skip one hidden step when you cut back or cancel iCloud and you could lose years of photos and messages before your account fully disconnects. Here’s how to safely export iCloud data.
Apple appsBefore changing anything, you need to know what each iCloud service holds and what happens when synchronization stops. Settings presents iCloud as a single service, but several separate systems work behind that name.
Some services synchronize live libraries or store files. Others back up devices or power Apple-only features such as Hide My Email and HomeKit Secure Video.
iCloud Backup generally excludes data that already synchronizes through iCloud. Photos in iCloud Photos usually aren’t duplicated in a device backup, and the same applies to messages and notes stored in iCloud.