To disable and effectively delete messages from iCloud, you'll need to turn off Messages in iCloud. This process can involve downloading any messages not currently on your device and, ultimately, freeing up iCloud storage space. Here's how to do it:
Steps to Disable Messages in iCloud:
- Open Settings: On your iPhone or iPad, open the "Settings" app.
- Tap Your Apple ID: Tap on your name at the top of the Settings menu. This will take you to your Apple ID settings.
- Select iCloud: Tap on "iCloud."
- Tap "Show All": In the Apps Using iCloud section, if you don't see "Messages," tap "Show All."
- Toggle Off Messages: Find "Messages" in the list and toggle the switch to the "off" position (from green to white/gray).
What happens when you disable Messages in iCloud?
- Download Messages (if prompted): Your device may prompt you to download messages currently stored in iCloud that aren't on your device. If so, allow it to complete this process. This ensures you have a local copy of your messages.
- Messages Remain on Device: Disabling Messages in iCloud does not automatically delete the messages from your device. They will remain on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac unless you manually delete them.
- Stop Syncing: Your messages will no longer be synced across your devices using iCloud. Any new messages you send or receive will only be stored on the device where you send or receive them.
- iCloud Storage: After disabling, it might take some time, but eventually, the storage space occupied by messages in iCloud will be freed up. The exact timeframe can vary.
Deleting Messages to Recover iCloud Storage:
While disabling Messages in iCloud stops future syncing, you might still need to take extra steps to completely free up iCloud storage space occupied by the messages.
- Wait: After disabling, wait a bit for iCloud to process the change.
- Check iCloud Storage: Go to Settings > Your Apple ID > iCloud > Manage Account Storage. You should see the storage used by messages gradually decrease.
Important Considerations:
- Backups: Disabling Messages in iCloud doesn't affect your regular iCloud backups. Your device backups will still contain your messages (if you back up your device to iCloud).
- Multiple Devices: If you use Messages in iCloud on multiple devices (e.g., iPhone, iPad, Mac), you need to disable it on each device separately to stop syncing.
- Alternative Messaging Apps: Consider using other messaging apps that offer end-to-end encryption and don't rely on iCloud for storage if you have privacy concerns.
Summary:
Disabling Messages in iCloud stops your messages from syncing across devices. This alone does not delete the messages but will eventually free up iCloud storage. Make sure to download messages to your device if prompted to retain local copies.
