How to transfer photos from iMac OS 15.5 to iPad pro OS18.05.

Hi I have been trying to update my iPad photo from my iMac photo Library

The OS on iMac is 15.5 and the one on iPad is OS 18.5 And I have not enough room in iCloud so would like to update with a cable and if possible automactly when I connect them.

Any advice Thanks

iPad, iPadOS 18

Posted on Jul 18, 2025 11:11 AM

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Posted on Jul 18, 2025 02:10 PM

Cable, yes. Automatically, no, you will need to initiate the sync.

click here ➜ Sync photos between your Mac and iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch - Apple Support

4 replies

Jul 22, 2025 08:07 AM in response to George Hilton

iCloud syncing and cable syncing are incompatible. If you have iCloud turned on for Photos, then you can't use a cable to "sync" photos with Finder.


You can use Image Capture in the Applications folder to copy pictures from a phone to a Mac, but it doesn't go the other way.


But, as markwmsn says, you are in for a load of trouble trying to operate with filled storage.

Jul 21, 2025 11:05 AM in response to George Hilton

Please note that leaving iCloud Photos enabled on either device when your iCloud storage is too small to hold your entire library can lead to unpredictable results, including immediate deletion of photos (rather than on a thirty day delay) and/or loss of full resolution images. If you are switching to cable syncing, commit fully.


Also, note that photos and videos sent to the phone by cable cannot later be deleted by the phone.

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How to transfer photos from iMac OS 15.5 to iPad pro OS18.05.

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