If you’ve recently purchased a new or pre-owned Apple^® device, it’s important to get to know how the online storage service iCloud^® works. This cloud-based service will house all of the content used on your phone, computer, or tablet. Knowing how to access and set it up is essential for syncing all of your devices, backing them up, and restoring them when necessary. The guide below will give you a quick run-through on using it.

How to Set Up Your iCloud Account

The iCloud is available to everyone, so if this is not the first new or pre-owned Apple device you’ve purchased, you most likely already have an Apple ID for accessing it. However, if this is your first one, you’ll need to create an account and determine which size plan you’ll need. It will automatically come with 5 GB of storage, but you can purchase more if it’s needed. 

When you have created your account, you will then be able to download content from the iTunes^® and the Apple Store^®. You’ll also be able to sync pictures, calendars, and contacts from your phone. If you enable the automatic backup, your device will back up its data to the cloud every 24 hours, as long as it is plugged into a power source or connected to Wi-Fi.  

How to Manage Your iCloud

Not everything on your phone has to be backed up to the cloud. After activating your ID on all of your new or pre-owned Apple devices, you can then manually choose what data gets stored from which apps. In most instances, apps that use the camera will take up the most space. However, you can always purchase a larger storage plan if you are worried about losing data during a restore. 

In the event of a restore, all you need is your Apple ID and password, and you’ll be able to add back all of the data that was saved to the cloud. In this event, you also don’t have to add everything back to your phone—only what’s necessary. The information will still be available if you need a particular app again in the future.

The iCloud can make it easier to purchase a new or pre-owned Apple device. If you need additional information about operating your iPhone^®, Mac^®, or iPad^® contact the knowledgeable team at Experimac King of Prussia in Montgomery County, PA. They provide computer repairs and have certified pre-owned Apple devices, which come with a warranty. Call (610) 510-2094 today to receive a quote, or visit their website to see a list of their products.