Upload MP4 or any video format from external HD to iCloud PHOTOS

How to Upload MP4s to iCloud Photos via Browser

1. Open iCloud Photos in a Browser:

• • Go to https://www.icloud.com/photos on your browser (Chrome, Edge, Safari, etc.).
  • Sign in with your Apple ID.

1. Click the Upload Button:

• • It’s the cloud with an upward arrow, usually in the top-right.
  • Navigate to your external hard drive and select the MP4 (or supported video) files.

1. Wait for Upload Confirmation:

• • You may not get a detailed status bar — just a spinner.
  • Large files may take a while, especially on slower internet.

Supported Video Formats

iCloud Photos supports:

• .mp4, .mov, .m4v — encoded in H.264 or HEVC with AAC audio.

If your video is in another format (e.g., AVI, MKV), convert it first using a tool like HandBrake or VLC.

Limitations to Be Aware Of

• No folders: You can’t upload folders — only files. You’ll need to manually select what you want.
• Limited feedback: Browser uploads don’t always show progress clearly, and failed uploads might not alert you.
• Max file size: iCloud Photos allows videos up to 15 GB and under 5 minutes long to be played inline. Bigger files can still be stored but won’t stream efficiently.
• No auto-sorting: The uploaded videos won’t go into Albums unless you organize them later via the Photos app or website.