How to disable iCloud backups for Photos

You can export your data from iCloud and turn off automated backups with the following steps.

Exporting your data

You should first consider exporting all of the data that has already been backed up. To do this:

  • On your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch
    • Open Settings and tap your name
    • Click on iCloud > Photos
    • Select "Download and Keep Originals"
  • On your Mac, open the Photos app. Select the photos and videos you want to copy. Choose File > Export.
Apple Photos - Export

Disabling automatic iCloud backups

To stop Apple from automatically backing up your Photos from your iPhone to iCloud:

  • Open Settings and tap your name
  • Click on iCloud > Photos
  • Deselect "Sync this iPhone" to turn off iCloud Photos.
Disabling iCloud photo
backups

Removing already backed up data from iCloud

Finally to delete existing data that has already been backed up:

  • Click on "Manage Storage"
  • Click on "Turn Off & Delete from iCloud"

That's it, you're free! 🎉

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