iCloud "Keep downloaded" button doesn't seem to function?

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Level 1

4 points

iCloud "Keep downloaded" button doesn't seem to function?

I have been working on a memorial video for my late father in law in an area with poor wifi. After a problem with the individual files being synced to iCloud while I was working on them, I discovered that I could use the keep downloaded option. Of course, when I later exported the video, I checked this option. Once I had viewed the video once in preview, I clicked to view it again. At this point it began downloading it from the cloud! Have I made a mistake or is this option just less trustworthy than it seems. Given how poor the download manager (or lack thereof) for iCloud is, I'm thinking that it may just be a shoddy piece of software. Hopefully I've just made a mistake!

MacBook Pro 13″, macOS 15.3

Posted on Apr 25, 2025 10:42 AM

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Answer 1

lilyabrik Author

Level 1

4 points

Apr 25, 2025 11:07 AM in response to lilyabrik

UPDATE: two of the five original files marked 'keep downloaded' are now also downloading and not possible to view or edit. I must ask: what is the function of this button?

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Answer 2

Apr 25, 2025 1:46 PM in response to lilyabrik

lilyabrik wrote: … I must ask: what is the function of this button?

When Optimize Storage is used, then when necessary to save space, the Mac will replace some files in the Mac's iCloud Drive with aliases (links to the files at iCloud.com.) This is done because the Mac sees that there is limited storage. The menu choice "Keep Downloaded" can be used to let the Mac know that you'd rather it keep that file local if possible.

In every case, you really can load any file at any time by just clicking on it, if there's enough storage available. You should have at least 10% of your storage free to avoid difficulties. How much free storage do you have? For instance, at System Settings>General>Storage my MacBook says 640 GB of 1 TB used. What does yours say?

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iCloud "Keep downloaded" button doesn't seem to function?

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