How Temporary iCloud Storage Works on iOS 15

Apple introduced temporary iCloud backup storage in iOS 15 to eliminate storage barriers when upgrading to a new device. This feature grants users access to as much free, temporary cloud storage as needed to back up their current iPhone or iPad and transfer data seamlessly to a new one, even if they only have the standard free 5GB iCloud tier.

The Problem It Solves

Traditionally, backing up a full device to iCloud required sufficient available space within the user's allocated storage plan. Users on the default 5GB plan frequently encountered errors preventing backups because photos, apps, and system files exceeded that threshold. The temporary backup bypasses these plan limits entirely, ensuring no data must be left behind during a hardware transition.

How the Temporary Storage Allocation Works

When initiated, Apple allocates temporary, unmetered storage tied to the user's Apple ID specifically for device migration:

  • Unlimited Data Volume: The service covers the complete size of the device's backup, regardless of whether it requires 20GB or 256GB.
  • Non-Deductible Space: This allocation does not count against existing iCloud storage limits and does not alter the user's active tier or billing.
  • Duration Limits: The backup remains available in iCloud for 21 days from the date of creation.
  • Extensions: If the new device does not arrive within the initial 21-day window, users can request an additional 21 days through their device settings before the backup expires.
  • Automatic Deletion: Once the data is successfully restored to the new device, the temporary backup is automatically removed, and the account returns to its standard storage allocation.

How to Use Temporary iCloud Backup

To use this feature, the existing device must be running iOS 15 or later:

  1. Open Settings on the current device.
  2. Tap General, then scroll down and select Transfer or Reset iPhone (or iPad).
  3. Under the "Prepare for New iPhone" section, tap Get Started.
  4. If informed that iCloud storage is full, tap Turn On Backup to Transfer Data.
  5. Wait for the backup process to finish completely.

Once the backup is complete, powering on the new device and signing in with the same Apple ID allows the user to select the temporary backup during the setup assistant and restore all personal data.