icloud messages sync not working

Hi, icloud sync used to work perfectly. Then I updated my iphone OS to the current version.

Now, messages will only sync if it's on wifi and plugged in. I know that's the case with sync of photos, but messages? I thought they are supposed to sync in real time?


When I do plug it in and connect to wifi (which is a very fast internet connection), it is stuck saying "downloading messages from icloud" -- it takes about 7-8 hours each time for it to sync messages, even if I've only written a few. The sync process is unbelievably slow.

I have plenty of icloud storage left, so that's not a factor.


I've tried resetting all settings. I've tried disabling icloud sync for messages on all devices, and reenabling it on all devices. I've tried restarting the phone and macbook etc.

i've signed out of icloud removing all the data, then signed in again.

No change -- it takes 8 hours, phone has to be plugged in and connected to wifi without going to sleep at any time during the process, in order to sync even a single message.

I can't imagine that this is how it's supposed to work, when it all worked just fine and super fast on ios 14. Does anyone have this experience know how i can get back to normal messages sync (before updating ios, they used to sync anytime, within just a minute or so after writing them)?


iPhone SE, iOS 14

Posted on Mar 11, 2023 7:53 AM

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2 replies

Mar 11, 2023 7:55 AM in response to augias

Probably your device is not connected to the internet.



Connecting to Wi-Fi is the first part and then getting connected to the Internet is the second

  1. If you are connected to a Wifi, doesn't necessarily mean you are connected to the internet. If you are not connected to wifi could be a problem with iPhone settings or Router/Modem Settings
  2. If you are not connected to the internet is the sole issue of Router / Modem Settings. Contact your ISP immediately


Internet Over Wi-FI: Contact your ISP (Internet Service Provider), the agency that provided the Internet Service on your Modem/Router to you


Recommended settings for Wi-Fi routers and access points



For your Internet connection.

  • Over Cellular/Mobile: contact your Carrier (Cellular Service Provider). The agency that issued the SIM to you
  • Over Wi-Fi: Contact your ISP (Internet Service Provider), the agency that provided the Internet Service on your Modem/Router to you


However --> Connect iPhone to the Internet - Apple Support


Mar 14, 2023 12:52 PM in response to SravanKrA

I've got the same issue and I'm definitely connected to the internet all-around. Messages are syncing just fine between my phone and Ipad and real-time messages are showing on my Macbook, however, it flat-out refuses to sync any messages for the past week, no matter how many different toggle on/off, force restarts, sign in/out, pray the rosary, or 'take two of these and call me in the morning' fixes I've found on official message boards and otherwise. About half the time when I hit 'sync now,' I get the download icon frozen in perpetual almost there but not quite.

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icloud messages sync not working

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