Apple’s iCloud service provides users with an array of cloud-based storage and syncing options, along with other services that can make your life easier. Some of these options are rarely used, while others are major parts of using your Apple devices, such as your iPhone or iPad. This cheat sheet will explain everything you need to know about iCloud, including what it is, how to set it up, and how to use its most essential features on any Apple device you have.
How do I back up my iPhone?
You can back up your iPhone using iCloud or iTunes. If you use iCloud, your data will be backed up automatically as long as your device is connected to the internet and power. You can also manually trigger a backup at any time. To do this, go to Settings > iCloud > Backup, then tap Back Up Now. If you prefer to use iTunes, connect your device to your computer and open iTunes. Select your device, then click Summary > Back Up Now.
How do I erase my iPhone remotely?
Erasing your iPhone remotely is a handy way to make sure your data is safe if your device is lost or stolen. Here’s how to do it . Go to Settings, tap on your name at the top of the list, and select iCloud. Select Find My iPhone from the menu on the left-hand side of the screen. You will be prompted for an Apple ID and password in order to continue.
How do I set up FaceTime on my Mac?
Before you can use FaceTime on your Mac, you need to set it up. Here’s how:
- Open the FaceTime app.
- In the FaceTime app, sign in with your Apple ID and password.
- In the sidebar, select the contact that you want to call.
- Click the audio or video button in the upper-left corner of the window to start a call.
Where is My Information Stored?
iCloud stores your music, photos, apps, calendars, documents, and more. And it keeps your devices in sync. All of this happens over the air, wirelessly and automatically. That means you can start editing a document on one device and finish on another.
The only exception is music — iCloud doesn’t stream or store any audio files whatsoever. You have to upload them to iTunes Match first.
iCloud also doesn’t support any third-party applications (like Dropbox) at all, but if you’re into that kind of thing you might want to check out Box or SugarSync instead.
What if I change devices?
If you’re switching from an iPhone to an iPad, for example, you can sign in with your Apple ID and password. Once you’re signed in, all of your iCloud data will be available on your new device. If you’re signing in to a new device for the first time, you may be prompted to enter a verification code. This code is sent to your other devices that are signed in to iCloud. You can also use two-factor authentication to verify your identity.
How can I sync between my Mac and Windows PC?
If you have both a Mac and a Windows PC, you might be wondering how to keep them in sync. Luckily, Apple has a built-in solution with iCloud. Here’s everything you need to know about using iCloud to sync your Mac and Windows PC.
Where are Podcasts stored?
Podcasts are stored in the Podcasts app on your iOS device. If you have an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch, you can download the Podcasts app from the App Store. What if I don’t have an Apple device?: You can still listen to podcasts via iTunes by clicking Podcasts under the Library menu and selecting Subscribe to Podcast. Where are iBooks downloaded to?: When you purchase a book from Apple’s iBookstore, it is automatically downloaded to your Mac’s Downloads folder. If you’re using a Windows PC, this file is automatically saved to the Documents folder. How do I access Photos for OS X?
Where are iBooks saved?
On your iOS device, iBooks are saved in the Books app. On your Mac, they’re saved in the iBooks app. And on your PC, they’re saved in iTunes. How do I set up my Apple ID?: When you purchase an Apple product, sign into it with your email address and password and agree to their terms of service.
What is Find My iPhone? (link) A free service that helps you find a lost or stolen iPhone, iPad, iPod touch or Mac. It also lets you remotely erase all data from these devices if necessary and display a message for someone who finds it before wiping it clean.
How can I print from my iOS device?
Printing from your iOS device is simple with Apple’s AirPrint technology. There are a few things you need to make sure of before you can print, though. First, the printer needs to be connected wirelessly or have an available USB port. Second, it needs to be compatible with Apple AirPrint (many new models are). Third, if you’re using a wireless connection then the printer needs to be turned on and close by. Finally, your iPad or iPhone needs access to a wireless network and should have some sort of internet connection available (Wi-Fi or cellular).
