Can I delete my iCloud backup without losing any data?

Question

Can I delete my iCloud backup without losing any data?

I have an iPhone 14 with the basic free iCloud Storage of 5GB. The Size Bar shows 4.1GB of the 5GB in use. iCloud will no longer allow me to backup since it says that I lack space. I'd prefer to avoid paying for more space if possible. First do my Photos sync to iCloud and is there also a duplicate copy in my iCloud Backup? I've tried to look at Apple Support Documents in order to reduce the Backup size but I'm not getting it. I've gone to the iCloud Backup Manage and tried to turn off many apps that use the backup but it still says that I can't back it up. I believe that I only have one iCloud Backup for this iPhone 14. This is my only device. The existing Backup says 2.1GB the prediction shows 2.26+GB for a future Backup after I turned off many apps using the Backup. The Photo Library is showing 1.95GB. I'm concerned about turning that off if my Photos aren't saved elsewhere. Can I delete my only backup turn off iCloud Backup and back on to create a new smaller iCloud Backup that will get created under the 5GB? I want to be sure that I have a good iCloud Backup before upgrading my iOS to 18.1.1 or 18.2.

If I can't clean this up is the 50GB storage amount really only .99/month? No hidden fees or charges? Will Apple just automatically debit the .99/month from my listed payment method.

I appreciate any thoughts and help!

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

iPhone 14, iOS 17

Posted on Dec 12, 2024 11:55 AM

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Answer 1

Dec 12, 2024 1:06 PM in response to Lonewolf63010

Lonewolf63010 wrote:

First do my Photos sync to iCloud

Only if you have iCloud Photos enabled in Settings ➜ Photos.

and is there also a duplicate copy in my iCloud Backup?

No. If iCloud Photos is turned on, then the photos are not included in the backup. If iCloud Photos is not turned on, then photos are part of the backup, but would not be separately synced to iCloud.

The Photo Library is showing 1.95GB. I'm concerned about turning that off if my Photos aren't saved elsewhere.

Turning the photos backup option off, just means they won't be backed up in the next backup. They'll still exist on your iPhone. You can transfer them to a PC or even a USB drive if you really wanted to.

Can I delete my only backup turn off iCloud Backup and back on to create a new smaller iCloud Backup that will get created under the 5GB?

Yes, if the selected content ads up to less that 5GB. You don't need to turn off iCloud backup. Once you delete the existing backup, it can just use the freed up space for the new backup.

I want to be sure that I have a good iCloud Backup before upgrading my iOS to 18.1.1 or 18.2.

Always a good idea.

If I can't clean this up is the 50GB storage amount really only .99/month?

Yes. just 99c a month.

No hidden fees or charges?

No, no hidden fees or other charges. just 99c.

Will Apple just automatically debit the .99/month from my listed payment method.

Yes.

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Answer 2

Dec 13, 2024 12:20 PM in response to Lonewolf63010

Phil0124,

Thanks a lot for your response and help!! You have the iCloud Backup process a lot clearer for me!!

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