iPad [third generation] will not automatically sync messages with iPhone 13. Both have latest software. Both are logged into same Apple account. Both declare "messages in iCloud". But iPad only syncs messages when "Sync now" is manually pressed. What is preventing the iPad from automatically sync-ing messages with iPhone? Ditto with photos.
iPhone 13 Pro, iOS 18
Your iPad is not auto-syncing Messages or Photos because one of the standard iCloud background conditions is blocked—usually Low Power Mode, battery level, paused photo sync, background app refresh disabled, or an iCloud security hold. Making sure the iPad is plugged in, not in Low Power Mode, with Background App Refresh enabled, often restores automatic syncing.
Your iPad is not auto-syncing Messages or Photos because one of the standard iCloud background conditions is blocked—usually Low Power Mode, battery level, paused photo sync, background app refresh disabled, or an iCloud security hold. Making sure the iPad is plugged in, not in Low Power Mode, with Background App Refresh enabled, often restores automatic syncing.
Thank you for your detailed reply.
iPad and iPhone are recharged every night, starting each day with 100%.
iPad presently has 80% battery.
Settings, Battery, Lower Power Mode is OFF.
Settings, General, Background App Refresh, has a long list of apps, all of which are ENABLED but curiously there is no "Message" app though there is a "Messenger" app with an icon of blue circle with white "N" in its center.
Settings, Account, iCloud, Saved to iCloud, both Photos and Messages show "Use on this iPad" ENABLED.
Just sent a text from my Android to wife's iPhone.
iPhone gets text, iPad does not, even when "sync now" on iPad is pressed.
iPad cannot automatically sync messages and photos with iPhone
