Family Sharing explained: Easily share and manage iCloud+

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Family Sharing offers a simple way to share iCloud+. Storage space and features like Private Relay, hiding email addresses, and HomeKit Secure Video can be bundled within a group without exposing personal data. Each member uses their own Apple account, while the benefits of iCloud+ are managed centrally.

iCloud+ is becoming increasingly important in everyday life because photos, backups, and files require more and more storage space. With Family Sharing, this storage is not only shared but also efficiently organized. All members can use up to 12 TB and have access to the advanced iCloud+ features. The organizer of Family Sharing doesn't have to be the same person who shares the storage plan. Responsibility can be easily transferred to another member.

Share iCloud+ with Family Sharing

The prerequisite is a configured Family Sharing setting. After that, the iCloud+ plan can be shared on iPhone, iPad, or Mac.

On iPhone or iPad

• Open settings and tap on Family.
• Select subscriptions and open iCloud+
• Share the existing plan and follow the instructions.

On the Mac

• Open the Apple menu and select System Preferences.
• Click on Family
• Open Subscriptions and select iCloud+
• Select "Share with family" and follow the steps.

The storage space is shared, but personal content remains separate. Everyone keeps their photos, documents, and backups private.

Check storage usage of Family Sharing

If shared storage space becomes low, all members will receive a notification. The organizer or the person who purchased the plan can upgrade at any time. Up to 12 TB is possible.

On iPhone or iPad

• Open settings and select Family
• Open Subscriptions and tap iCloud+
• Manage this subscription, select it and purchase additional storage.

On the Mac

• Open Apple Menu
• Select system settings
• Click on Family
• Open Subscriptions and select iCloud+

Switch from your personal iCloud+ plan to your family plan

With Family Sharing, all members who are only using the 5 GB free version are automatically added to the family plan.

• If a member already uses iCloud+, there are two options to choose from:
  • Your own plan remains in place or
  • Change to the family plan

Important: If you switch plans, you will receive a refund for the remaining term of your personal plan. It is not possible to use both plans simultaneously.

On iPhone or iPad

• Open settings and select Family
• Select subscriptions and open iCloud+
• Tap to use family storage

On the Mac

• Open system settings and select Family.
• Open Subscriptions and select iCloud+
• Use shared plan

Request more storage from a family member

If storage space on a shared plan becomes limited, any member can request an upgrade from the person paying for the iCloud+ plan. Alternatively, files can be deleted or optimized to free up storage space.

Change responsibility for iCloud+ sharing

The role of the member sharing the iCloud+ plan with the group can be changed at any time. This is useful if another member has a larger plan or wants to upgrade.

Steps for the current member

• Open Settings
• Choose your own name
• Open iCloud and select storage.
• Open family use
• Stop sharing with family

Steps for the new member

• Purchase an iCloud+ plan or upgrade an existing plan
• Open Settings
• Choose your own name
• Open iCloud and select storage.
• Share with family and follow the instructions

What happens if family sharing ends or a member leaves the group?

If you leave Family Sharing and your storage usage exceeds 5 GB, you will need your own iCloud+ plan. Without a plan, you will no longer be able to upload new photos or videos. iCloud Drive will no longer accept new files, and device backups will stop. Content will remain stored, but new uploads will not be possible.

Overview of shared iCloud+ benefits within the group

Family Sharing offers a clear and flexible way to share iCloud+. Storage and features are available to all members without exposing personal data. With up to 12 TB, simple management options, and clear rules for responsibilities, iCloud+ can be used efficiently by a group. The structure remains clear and storage is optimally distributed, regardless of whether multiple devices, large photo collections, or HomeKit cameras are in use. The best products for you: Our Amazon Storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Apple)

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FAQs about Family Sharing and iCloud+