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How can I replicate the functionality of Photo stream without busting my iCloud storage limits?

I have been using My Photo Stream for years to safeguard photos that I am taking with my iPhone while traveling, until I can download them on my Mac and back them up. Unfortunately, this is another formerly great feature that Apple decided to destroy (just like "safe as..."), presumably to sell more iCloud storage space. I have too many photos to use iCloud Photos even with my enhanced plan; but on top of that, I understand that if I turn iCloud Photos on, I can no longer back up my photos to an external hard drive. Is there any work-around that would allow me to restrict WHICH photos are saved to iCloud Photo (just like I can when I sync my iPhone and my Mac)?

Posted on Jul 4, 2023 11:15 AM

Top-ranking reply

Axel Foley

Level 10

149,568 points

Posted on Jul 4, 2023 11:21 AM

You can always export your photos from your iPhone to your computer. This is not dependent on whether you use iCloud for photos or not.

Review the instructions in this guide published by Apple 👉 Transfer photos and videos from your iPhone or iPad to your Mac or PC - Apple Support

Axel F.

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How can I replicate the functionality of Photo stream without busting my iCloud storage limits?

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