Many iPhone users are surprised to discover they're being charged for iCloud storage. After all, didn't iCloud come free with the phone? It does — but only the first 5GB. Here's everything you need to know about iCloud storage charges.
Why Are You Being Charged?
Every Apple ID comes with 5GB of free iCloud storage. That sounds reasonable until you realise what uses it:
- iPhone backups — Can easily use 2-3GB per device
- Photos and videos — The biggest storage consumer for most people
- Documents and app data
- Messages (if iCloud Messages is enabled)
For most people, 5GB fills up within months of getting a new iPhone, prompting that persistent "iCloud Storage Full" notification.
iCloud+ Storage Plans
Apple offers three paid tiers under the iCloud+ branding:
- 50GB — 0.99 pounds/month
- 200GB — 2.99 pounds/month
- 2TB — 8.99 pounds/month
- 6TB — 24.99 pounds/month
- 12TB — 49.99 pounds/month
All paid plans also include iCloud+ features like Private Relay, Hide My Email, and HomeKit Secure Video.
How to Check Your iCloud Usage
- Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud
- You'll see a colour-coded bar showing what's using your storage
- Tap Manage Account Storage for a detailed breakdown
How to Reduce Your iCloud Usage
Before upgrading your plan, see if you can free up space:
Photos
Photos are usually the biggest consumer. Options include:
- Delete old photos and videos you no longer need
- Move photos to a computer or external drive
- Use Google Photos or another service as a secondary backup
Backups
Old device backups can take up significant space:
- Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > Manage Storage > Backups
- Delete backups from devices you no longer own
App Data
Some apps store surprising amounts of data in iCloud. Check the breakdown and turn off iCloud syncing for apps that don't need it.
Is Paid iCloud Worth It?
At 0.99 pounds per month for 50GB, the basic plan is arguably one of Apple's best value offerings. It gives you:
- Automatic device backups (invaluable if you lose your phone)
- Photo syncing across all devices
- Peace of mind that your data is safe
- iCloud+ privacy features
The 200GB plan is ideal for families using Family Sharing, as the storage can be shared across up to six family members.
Track All Your Apple Charges, Including iCloud
iCloud charges are just one part of your Apple spending. Use iSpent to see every charge — subscriptions, apps, storage, and more — in a single clear overview.