iCloud: what it is, features, advantages and disadvantages

iCloud It is a cloud storage serviceowned by Apple Inc., launched on the market in October 2012 for iOS devices (iPad, iPod or iPhone).

It allows you to store personal files for free. Therefore, in this article We will explain how iCloud works and what are the advantages and disadvantages.

What is it for

iCloud mainly serves to preserve multimedia content of different formats, however, it can also be used to save backup copies of the device in use. Likewise, this service allows track and find lost equipment or stolen through Apple account.

How does it work

To use iCloud you need to have an Apple ID that allows you to configure and synchronize all the information you want in the cloud, as well as access the different services of the platform. This is something very easy to do, since you can create an account when setting up the device or from the App Store on the device.

It is also possible register an Apple ID on Mac or Windows computers using iTunes, in a few steps. Although, if you prefer to do it from any other device or Operating System, you can access the and click the “Create your Apple ID” button. Then, you just have to complete the necessary process to start enjoying the service.

Complementary services

Although iCloud is mainly used to backup cell phone information, this platform also provides access to other types of service. Among these the following can be highlighted:

Calendar: Through the calendar, each person can synchronize important events or dates that they can view when accessing iCloud from a different computer or receive alerts about them.
Contacts: This application allows you to synchronize all the contacts stored in the different applications or devices linked to iCloud. It even integrates Outlook (Hotmail) contacts if accessed from a Windows computer or Smartphone.
Find My iPhone: This iCloud service allows you to find an iPhone using GPS location, in case it is lost or stolen.
iCloud Drive– is a digital storage service similar to Google Drive, where users can keep photos, videos, and other types of files.
iCloud Mail: is Apple’s exclusive email service, in which all emails received through said platform can be received and stored.
Keynotes– With this service you can create presentations on any Mac computer or using the browser.
Grades– It is a fairly simple application with which every individual can create notes and store them in the cloud to view them at any time.
Names: is the version of Microsoft’s spreadsheet program (Excel), adapted to an iOS device. Allows you to create, modify or share documents of this type.
Pages: It is similar to the notes service, however, it is used to create documents and store them in the cloud or share them with other users.
Reminders– Used to create reminders or notes of pending tasks, which will be added and displayed automatically on all devices linked to iCloud.

Supported platforms

This storage service is developed to work on devices with iOS Operating System (iPhone, iPad or iPod). However, it easily adapts to Mac computers and it is even possible to use it on Windows computers by downloading it from . In addition, it has its own.

Costs and memberships

By signing up for iCloud, the service gives the user 5 GB of free storage, which can be expanded at any time by purchasing a paid plan. For this, Apple offers the following alternatives:

50GB storage– Includes custom email domain, iCloud Private Relay, hide email, and support for HomeKit Secure Video for a camera. It can be shared with up to 5 family members.
200 GB storage– Integrates everything from the 50 GB plan, except that it provides support for HomeKit secure video for five cameras. It can also be shared with five more family members.
2 TB of storage– Provides support for HomeKit secure video for an unlimited number of cameras and can be used by 5 additional accounts beyond the main one. Added to this, the basic features of iCloud that are described in the 50 GB plan.

Note– The cost of each plan may vary depending on the region or country of residence. To get a clearer idea of the monthly billing price, you can visit .

Characteristics

iCloud has different features or functions, which allow you to get the most out of this storage service. Among these are the following:

Free storage: The platform offers 5 Gigabytes of free storage upon registration, with which you can keep photos, videos, applications, etc.
Backup copies or backup of information– Allows each individual to make backup copies of all the information stored on their device, as well as back up said data without having to use a PC.
Search my Iphone: Used to track the location of iOS devices (iPhone/iPod or iPad Touch) on the map. In addition, it offers the option to leave a message on the screen, make the device ring or even delete your information remotely.
Photo Stream– Allows you to store your most recent 1,000 photos in iCloud for free, for up to 30 days.
iTunes Match– Allows users to scan and combine songs ripped from CDs or other sources with those stored in iTunes.
Return to my Mac– Provides the option to remotely connect to other Macs configured with the same Apple ID, as long as “Return to My Mac” has been previously enabled.

Advantages and disadvantages

This service provides multiple advantages or benefits to its users, among which the following can be mentioned:

5 Gigabytes of storage gratuitous.
Allows you to back up the information stored on your mobile.
You can synchronize a same account on different devices to access information at any time.
Can use in different Operating Systems.
It has a web version that can be accessed easily.
It allows track, locate or delete information of the device remotely.
It allows you to organize files simply and quickly.
It is responsible for keeping all apps updated (Safari, Mail, Calendar, etc.).

However, there are a variety of disadvantages or negative aspects in iCloudsuch as those mentioned below:

Data or information stored in iCloud It is not encryptedTherefore, there are privacy risks.
Uploading a file to the cloud can result in large data consumption.
Requires internet connection to work.
Some of its functions are only available if you have an Apple device.

In conclusion, iCloud is a cloud storage service that allows you to upload, synchronize and access files from different computers or Operating Systems.