How to move photos from Google Photos to iCloud

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To move photos from Google Photos to iCloud, you can download the photos from Google Photos to your device and then upload them to iCloud via the iCloud website or the Photos app. This process can be done on both desktop and mobile devices.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before starting the transfer process, ensure you have the following:
  • •A Google account with access to Google Photos.
  • •An Apple ID with iCloud enabled.
  • •Sufficient storage space in your iCloud account to accommodate the photos.
  • •A device (computer or smartphone) with internet access.
  • •Latest version of web browsers (Chrome, Safari, Firefox) or the Google Photos and iCloud apps.

Method 1: Download and Upload via Web Browser

This method is straightforward and works well for users who prefer using a web browser.
  • •Step 1: Open your web browser and go to [Google Photos](https://photos.google.com).
  • •Step 2: Sign in with your Google account credentials.
  • •Step 3: Select the photos you want to transfer by clicking on the checkmark in the top left corner of each photo.
  • •Step 4: Click on the three vertical dots (More options) in the top right corner and select 'Download'. This will save the selected photos to your device.
  • •Step 5: Once downloaded, go to [iCloud.com](https://www.icloud.com) and sign in with your Apple ID.
  • •Step 6: Click on 'Photos' and then click the upload icon (cloud with an upward arrow) in the top right corner.
  • •Step 7: Select the downloaded photos from your device and click 'Open' to upload them to iCloud.
  • •Step 8: Verify the upload by checking if the photos appear in your iCloud Photos library.

For Windows 11

Follow these specific steps for Windows 11 users:
  • •Open Microsoft Edge or your preferred browser.
  • •Use the 'Windows + E' shortcut to open File Explorer and locate your downloaded photos.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 users can follow these steps:
  • •Open Google Chrome or your preferred browser.
  • •Use the 'Windows + E' shortcut to open File Explorer and navigate to the Downloads folder.

Method 2: Using Google Photos App on Mobile

This method is ideal for users who prefer to transfer photos using their mobile devices.
  • •Step 1: Open the Google Photos app on your iPhone or Android device.
  • •Step 2: Sign in with your Google account if prompted.
  • •Step 3: Tap and hold on a photo to select it, then tap on additional photos to select multiple.
  • •Step 4: Tap the share icon (three dots connected) and select 'Save to device' (for Android) or 'Save Image' (for iPhone).
  • •Step 5: Open the Photos app on your iPhone or the Files app on your Android device.
  • •Step 6: Locate the saved photos and ensure they are accessible.
  • •Step 7: For iPhone users, open the Photos app, tap 'Albums', and select 'All Photos' to confirm the images are saved.
  • •Step 8: Open the iCloud Drive app or go to [iCloud.com](https://www.icloud.com) on your mobile browser, sign in, and upload the photos.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues during the transfer process, refer to the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Download failed' - Solution: Ensure you have a stable internet connection and sufficient storage on your device.
  • •Issue: Photos not appearing in iCloud - Fix: Check if you are signed into the correct Apple ID and refresh the iCloud Photos page.
  • •Problem: Photos are blurry or corrupted - Workaround: Try downloading the photos again from Google Photos and ensure they are fully downloaded before uploading.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your photo transfer experience with these tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: 'Ctrl + A' (Windows) or 'Command + A' (Mac) - Select all photos in Google Photos for bulk download.
  • •Command line: Use Google Takeout for bulk downloading of all your Google Photos - [Google Takeout](https://takeout.google.com).
  • •Hidden feature: Enable 'High Quality' upload in Google Photos settings to save storage space.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

The most efficient way to transfer photos is to use Google Takeout for bulk downloads, followed by uploading them to iCloud.