Do you need iCloud storage for shared albums?

Answered by Randy McIntyre

Do you need iCloud storage for shared albums?

You do not need iCloud storage to create and share albums. Apple provides an option to create and share albums through iCloud, but it is not a requirement. You can also use other cloud storage services or even share albums locally without relying on any cloud storage.

When it comes to iCloud, there are two types of storage: iCloud Drive and iCloud Photos. iCloud Drive is a cloud storage service that allows you to store and sync files across your devices, while iCloud Photos is specifically designed for storing and syncing your photos and videos.

To create and share albums using iCloud, you can use the iCloud Photos feature. This feature allows you to create albums and share them with others. When you share an album, the photos and videos in that album are uploaded to iCloud and can be accessed by anyone you share the album with. However, the storage used by these shared albums does count towards your iCloud storage limit.

If you do not have enough iCloud storage, you may encounter limitations when it comes to creating and sharing albums. For example, you may not be able to upload all the photos and videos you want to include in the album, or you may not be able to share the album with as many people as you’d like. In this case, you may need to consider upgrading your iCloud storage plan or using alternative methods to share your albums.

Alternatively, you can also create and share albums without using iCloud storage. Many cloud storage services, such as Google Drive, Dropbox, or Microsoft OneDrive, offer photo and video storage options. You can create albums within these services and share them with others, just like you would with iCloud. The advantage of using these services is that they often provide more storage space for free or at a lower cost compared to iCloud.

Furthermore, you can also share albums locally without relying on any cloud storage. For example, if you have an iPhone and want to share an album with a friend who also has an iPhone, you can use the AirDrop feature to share the photos and videos directly between your devices. This allows for a quick and seamless sharing experience without the need for any cloud storage.

While iCloud provides a convenient way to create and share albums, it is not a requirement. You can use other cloud storage services or share albums locally without relying on iCloud storage. The choice ultimately depends on your storage needs and preferences.