iCloud does not appear to do anything - sync etc.

I have *attempted* to transfer some items from an iPhone to iCloud. I used to do this via a tethered connection, which took a few seconds. This is now not possible to do properly (search the discussions for photos and filters - it's impossible to transfer wire a simple wire any more - thanks Apple).device, but not on my MacBook . In what year should I expect them to finally show?

The items show on my