How to download photos from iCloud for iPhone or iPad (iOS)

Downloading your photos from iCloud on your iPhone or iPad is a smart way to keep your favorite memories saved right on your device.

Apple makes it easy to access and store your iCloud Photo Library locally. You can download full-resolution images directly to your iOS device, giving you offline access and an extra layer of backup.

In just a few quick steps, your photos will be safely stored in your device’s internal memory — no internet required. This guide will show you exactly how to do it, clearly and simply.

📱 How to Download iCloud Photos on iPhone or iPad

✅ Goal: Download all original-resolution photos from iCloud directly to your iPhone/iPad.

Step 1. Connect to Wi-Fi and Ensure You Have Enough Storage

• Make sure you're connected to a strong Wi-Fi network.

  

• Check Settings > General > iPhone Storage — you need enough space to store all originals.

Step 2. Enable iCloud Photos

• Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > Photos.

• Toggle Sync this iPhone/iPad to ON.

• Ensure Optimize iPhone Storage is NOT selected.

• Select Download and Keep Originals.

Step 3. Wait for Download to Complete

• Your iPhone will start downloading full-resolution photos.

• Leave your phone plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi overnight if you have thousands of photos.

Step 4. Transfer Photos If Needed

• Use AirDrop, Files app, or connect to a computer via USB to export photos.

📝 Notes:

• Photos app does not have a "download all" button — the system handles it automatically when you choose “Download and Keep Originals”.

• Check progress in Photos > Library and look for loading icons.

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