Understand device storage and iCloud storage
iPhone or iPad using iCloud
When to use this: Understand device storage and iCloud storage — use these initial checks when this matches your situation. On a work or school device, follow your organization's policies and stop if a setting is managed.
- Open Settings, General, then iPhone Storage or iPad Storage to check space on the device.
- Separately open Settings, your name, then iCloud to check cloud storage.
- Write down which storage is nearly full.
- Review categories before deciding what to change.
Check the result: You can identify whether the warning concerns the device, iCloud, or both.
Stop and get help when needed: Buying iCloud space does not increase physical device capacity. Deleting synced content can affect other devices; do not bulk-delete as a first step.
Need hands-on help?: Request DefenderTech support for individualized investigation or changes. We will explain the scope and estimate and ask for authorization before paid work begins. Do not include passwords, recovery keys or verification codes in your request.
Official references: - Apple guidance: https://support.apple.com/en-ie/102670
Updated 2026-09-30