How to move photos from iCloud to Google Photos

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

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

Quick Answer

To move photos from iCloud to Google Photos, you can use various methods including downloading photos from iCloud to your device and then uploading them to Google Photos. Alternatively, you can use the Google Photos app to directly import photos from iCloud if you have the right settings enabled.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before starting the transfer process, ensure you have the following:
  • •A computer or mobile device with internet access.
  • •An active iCloud account with photos stored.
  • •A Google account with Google Photos enabled.
  • •Sufficient storage space on your device to temporarily hold the photos.
  • •Updated versions of the iCloud app (for Windows) and Google Photos app (for mobile devices).
  • •Backup important data before proceeding to avoid accidental loss.

Method 1: Download and Upload

This method is straightforward and works well for users who prefer manual control over their photo transfer.
  • •Step 1: Open a web browser and go to iCloud.com. Log in with your Apple ID.
  • •Step 2: Click on 'Photos' to access your iCloud photo library.
  • •Step 3: Select the photos you want to transfer. You can select multiple photos by holding down the 'Ctrl' key (Windows) or 'Command' key (Mac) while clicking on each photo.
  • •Step 4: Click the download icon (cloud with a downward arrow) in the upper right corner to download the selected photos to your device.
  • •Step 5: Once downloaded, open Google Photos in your web browser or the Google Photos app.
  • •Step 6: Click on the 'Upload' button (upward arrow) and select 'Computer' to upload the downloaded photos.
  • •Step 7: Navigate to the folder where you saved the downloaded photos and select them to upload.
  • •Step 8: Verify the upload by checking that the photos appear in your Google Photos library.

For Windows 11

Follow these Windows 11 specific steps:
  • •Open the Start menu and search for 'Photos' to open the Photos app.
  • •Ensure that iCloud for Windows is installed and logged in. You can download it from the Microsoft Store if not installed.

For Windows 10

Follow these Windows 10 specific steps:
  • •Open the Start menu and search for 'iCloud' to launch the iCloud app.
  • •Ensure that the 'Photos' option is checked in the iCloud settings.

Method 2: Using Google Photos App

This method is useful for mobile users who want a more integrated approach.
  • •Step 1: Download and install the Google Photos app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
  • •Step 2: Open the Google Photos app and sign in with your Google account.
  • •Step 3: Tap on 'Photos' at the bottom to access your library.
  • •Step 4: Tap on the 'Upload' icon (upward arrow) and select 'iCloud Photos'.
  • •Step 5: Follow the prompts to grant Google Photos access to your iCloud account.
  • •Step 6: Select the photos you want to import and confirm the upload.
  • •Step 7: Check your Google Photos library to ensure the photos have been uploaded successfully.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues during the transfer, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Photos not downloading' - Solution: Ensure you have a stable internet connection and sufficient storage space on your device.
  • •Issue: 'Photos not appearing in Google Photos' - Fix: Check if the upload was successful and refresh the Google Photos app.
  • •Problem: 'Quality loss during upload' - Workaround: Ensure you are uploading in 'Original Quality' settings in Google Photos.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users looking to streamline their workflow:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: 'Ctrl + A' (Windows) or 'Command + A' (Mac) - Select all photos in iCloud.
  • •Command line: Use 'iCloud.exe' to manage downloads on Windows via command prompt.
  • •Hidden feature: Enable 'Backup & Sync' in Google Photos settings for automatic uploads from your device.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best results, use a combination of both methods depending on your needs and available devices.