Transferring photos from Google Photos to iCloud can seem daunting, but it is possible with a few easy methods. Here is a step-by-step guide on the best ways to make the move.
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Use Google Takeout to Export Photos
One of the easiest ways to transfer photos is by using Google Takeout. Here’s how:
- Go to takeout.google.com and sign into your Google account
- Deselect all products and only select Google Photos
- Choose export format (JPEG is recommended)
- Select export frequency and delivery method
- Click Create Export
Google will assemble all your Google Photos content and email you a download link when it’s ready. This may take hours or days depending on how many photos you have stored.
Download Photos from the Google Photos App
If you don’t want to export everything, you can selectively download photos right from the Google Photos app:
- Open the Google Photos app on your iPhone or Android device
- Tap and hold to select the photos you want to transfer
- Tap the share icon in the upper right (arrow pointing up out of a box)
- Choose Save to Device to download the photos to your camera roll
Use a Desktop App to Transfer Photos
For large Google Photos libraries, downloading to your computer first can make importing to iCloud easier:
- Install the Backup and Sync desktop app
- Sign in to your Google account
- Choose the photo folders you want to transfer
- Click on the folders to download all contents to your computer
- Import the downloaded folders into iCloud for Windows
Manually Upload Photos to iCloud
Uploading directly from your iPhone camera roll also works:
- Launch the Photos app on your iPhone
- Select the photos you exported from Google Photos
- Tap the share icon (box with arrow pointing up)
- Scroll down and select Copy to iCloud Photos
This will upload the selected photos to iCloud.
Use Third-Party Apps to Transfer Photos
Apps like iMazing and AnyTrans make it easy to export photos from Google Photos and import them into iCloud in just a few clicks. These paid apps offer free trials.
Tips for Successful Transfers
- Double check that all photos transferred correctly and are viewable in iCloud
- Delete the photos from Google Photos only after confirming the transfer to iCloud was successful
- Check your iCloud storage limits before transferring a large library
- Transferring videos will take longer than photos
Migrating Google Photos content takes time but is doable. With the right tools and some patience, you can safely move your photos library to iCloud.
