Apple and Google have teamed up to make it simpler for users to transfer their photo collections. You can now easily move your photos and videos from Google Photos directly to iCloud Photos. This new tool follows a similar one launched in 2021 that allowed transfers from iCloud Photos to Google Photos.
What is the Data Transfer Project?
Apple and Google’s collaboration is part of the Data Transfer Project, an open-source initiative aimed at making data transfers between different online platforms easier. In a recent blog post, the Data Transfer Initiative announced that support for transferring photos and videos from Google Photos to iCloud Photos will roll out over the next week.
How does the Photo Transfer Work?
Now, you can move your Google Photos collection straight to iCloud Photos. This new feature completes the data transfer options previously available, allowing for smooth transitions between the two services. The Data Transfer Project technology powers it and is part of efforts by Apple, Google, and Meta to make data portability more accessible.
Steps to Transfer Your Photos From Google to iCloud
Apple and Google have provided detailed guides on using this new tool. Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Go to Google Takeout: This is the service you’ll use to start the transfer.
- Start an Export from Google Photos: Follow the instructions provided.
- Select “Apple – iCloud Photos” as the Destination: Sign in with your Apple ID to authorize the transfer.
- Allow Google to Add Photos to iCloud: Confirm your permission to begin the process.
Important Things to Know
- Availability: The service will be available in over 240 countries and regions.
- Restrictions: It’s not available for child accounts or Managed Apple ID accounts. You can’t import photos and videos to iCloud if Advanced Data Protection is enabled.
- Data Retention: Your photos and videos won’t be deleted from Google Photos; they will just be copied to iCloud.
- Transfer Time: Depending on the number of photos and videos you are transferring, the process can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days.
Why This is Useful?
This new feature is great news for anyone looking to switch from Google Photos to iCloud Photos without the hassle of manually downloading and uploading their files. It simplifies the process and safely and securely transfers all your memories.
For more information on how to use this tool, visit Apple’s support page or Google’s help center. These resources provide detailed steps and additional details to help you through the process.