How to Cancel iCloud+
iCloud+ provides extra cloud storage for photos, files, and backups. You can downgrade through your iPhone, iPad, or Mac settings. If your data exceeds 5GB, you will need to reduce it or some data will stop syncing.
Steps verified March 2026
Quick Facts
Pricing (all plans)
Cancel online?
Yes
Pause option?
No
Refund policy
Downgrade takes effect at end of billing period. No partial refunds.
After cancellation
Data exceeding 5GB free tier stops syncing but is not immediately deleted.
What to Watch Out For
- Downgrade option labelled as a separate flow from cancellation
- Warning messages about data loss create urgency to keep paying
- Family Sharing complicates individual cancellation
Cancellation Steps
Go directly to iCloud+ cancellation pageOpen Settings on your iPhone or iPad
Tap your name at the top, then "iCloud" > "Manage Account Storage" > "Change Storage Plan".
Or on Mac
Go to System Settings > Apple ID > iCloud > Manage > Change Storage Plan.
Select "Downgrade Options"
Choose the free 5GB plan from the downgrade options.
Confirm with your Apple ID
Enter your password to confirm. The downgrade takes effect at the end of the billing period.
Tips & Things to Know
- If your data exceeds 5GB, iCloud will stop syncing new content — download important files first.
- iCloud Private Relay, Hide My Email, and custom domain features are lost on downgrade.
- Family Sharing: downgrading the organiser affects all family members sharing the plan.
Your Consumer Rights
- Apple must provide clear pricing information before renewal charges
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens to my photos if I downgrade?
Photos remain in iCloud but stop syncing to devices if you exceed the 5GB free limit.
Does downgrading affect my Apple ID?
No, your Apple ID and purchases remain unaffected. Only extra storage features are lost.
Can I downgrade on a PC?
Yes, you can manage your iCloud plan via icloud.com/settings on any browser.
What features do I lose besides storage?
iCloud Private Relay, Hide My Email, and HomeKit Secure Video support are removed.
How long does Apple keep my data after downgrading?
Apple retains your data for a period but eventually removes content exceeding the free tier.
Annual Cost
£659.88
per year for iCloud+
Cancelling saves you this every year