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Device storage

If my iCloud storage isn’t full but my device storage is full do u but more device storage because it says on my phone theres not enough space to do a back up so do I need more iCloud storage or device storage? And where can I buy device storage?

Posted on Jun 7, 2021 5:02 AM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jun 7, 2021 9:36 AM

You cannot buy device storage. Note there's different kinds of "storage". Click on this link to "Learn the difference between your device and iCloud storage, ways to manage your space, and where to buy more if you run out." --> https://support.apple.com/HT206504

Take-away:

1. Storage on a device itself is fixed and cannot be upgraded. You have to change your present device for one with more capacity.

2. iCloud storage is on Apple's main computers. It is not a hard drive in the sky but by using optimization settings on your device it can help free up device storage. Lesser used items and larger file versions can be stored in ICloud and you can get access while connected to the Internet. It does not turn a 64 GB storage device into a 64 (or whatever) + 50/200/2TB GB device but if you have a lot of things that aren't being used much, or you don't mind only having lesser quality photos on your device it can free up extra space so you can make the best of the GB you do have on the device itself.


In your case because your storage needs exceed what Apple provides for free (5 GB) you need to upgrade your iCloud storage by subscribing to more. If your main concern is backing up and you do not want to subscribe to iCloud storage, your alternative is to backup to a computer instead.


To learn "How to back up your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch" click here --> https://support.apple.com/HT203977


'If you can't back up to iCloud or restore from iCloud backup failed', click here --> https://support.apple.com/ht203516



1 reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jun 7, 2021 9:36 AM in response to Presto24LL

You cannot buy device storage. Note there's different kinds of "storage". Click on this link to "Learn the difference between your device and iCloud storage, ways to manage your space, and where to buy more if you run out." --> https://support.apple.com/HT206504

Take-away:

1. Storage on a device itself is fixed and cannot be upgraded. You have to change your present device for one with more capacity.

2. iCloud storage is on Apple's main computers. It is not a hard drive in the sky but by using optimization settings on your device it can help free up device storage. Lesser used items and larger file versions can be stored in ICloud and you can get access while connected to the Internet. It does not turn a 64 GB storage device into a 64 (or whatever) + 50/200/2TB GB device but if you have a lot of things that aren't being used much, or you don't mind only having lesser quality photos on your device it can free up extra space so you can make the best of the GB you do have on the device itself.


In your case because your storage needs exceed what Apple provides for free (5 GB) you need to upgrade your iCloud storage by subscribing to more. If your main concern is backing up and you do not want to subscribe to iCloud storage, your alternative is to backup to a computer instead.


To learn "How to back up your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch" click here --> https://support.apple.com/HT203977


'If you can't back up to iCloud or restore from iCloud backup failed', click here --> https://support.apple.com/ht203516



Device storage

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