What is iCloud+?. iCloud+ adds extra security measures to Apple’s cloud storage service at no cost to existing customers. There may not have been any new hardware at WWDC 2021. But it absolutely was still a packed schedule on Day 1 of the Apple developer conference.
With new versions of iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, tvOS and macOS all announced, it may be easy to overlook some of the less high-profile news. To learn about the iCloud+, you should read this article.
What is iCloud+?
Among them is iCloud+, an extension of Apple’s existing cloud-based service. The new functionality focuses on privacy and security, offering features that were previously only available via third-party software.
The third and final change is less significant, but can still be useful for most users. Apple is removing the five-device limit on HomeKit-enabled video cameras, so users can connect many as they want to their account.
What is iCloud?
iCloud has been around for pretty much a decade, so the majority are aware of what it offers. It acts as a storage solution for all the important data on your Apple devices. Allowing them to be accessed from any device by signing in at icloud.com.
This encompasses apps, photos, files, and passwords, also as the ability to access the ‘Find My’ tool. There are some basic editing features here. This means that you’ll be able to quickly modify a Pages document or Notes entry from another device.
Everyone with an active Apple ID is given 5GB of free storage, with apps and purchases from the iTunes Store not counting towards this total. For any extra capacity, you’ll have to purchase a subscription.
How is iCloud+ Different From iCloud?
Those premium tiers will now be rebranded as iCloud+. It will offer all a similar functionality as before. But Apple is additionally introducing three new security-focused features.
The most notable of it is Private Relay, where all traffic from your device is encrypted via two separate servers on the web. This makes your data unreadable to anyone online, including your internet service provider (ISP) or maybe Apple itself.
How Much Does iCloud+ Cost?
To take advantage of iCloud+, you’ll need to pay for at least 50GB of iCloud storage every month. Existing customers won’t be charged any more than they currently are, but here’s the breakdown for new subscribers:
- iCloud+ (50GB) – £0.79/US$0.99 per month.
- iCloud+ (200GB) – £2.49/US$2.99 per month.
- iCloud+ (2TB) – £6.99/US$9.99 per month.
And there you get it.
What is iCloud Drive?
Cloud drive storage services like Google Drive, OneDrive, and Cloud offer lots of storage at competitive prices. The decision may hinge on whether you value the extra privacy offered by “Hide My Email”, or have heavily invested in HomeKit devices.
In the case of the latter, Amazon and Google’s range of smart home devices may offer more value for some people. However, gaining access to the new iCloud+ features without paying an extra penny may sway things in Apple’s favor.
