Probably the best way to manage messages across iOS, iPadOS, and macOS is to sync them via iCloud. The cloud service not only keeps all chat history up to date and easily accessible from anywhere, but also adds an extra shield so that they are not lost even if something undesirable happens. However, until recently, the feature has been working seamlessly on my iDevices since its launch in iOS 11.4. Something went wrong and it stopped working. Although I was able to rein in the problem, as many users may have faced the same hurdle, I thought it would be appropriate to share some helpful solutions to fix iMessage not syncing with iCloud issue on iPhone, iPad and Mac. If you found yourself in a similar situation, this troubleshooting guide is for you.
Fix iMessage Not Syncing on iPhone, iPad and Mac with iCloud Issue
So how do we get rid of this problem? First, we will tick all the essential boxes outlined by Apple for seamless syncing of messages with the cloud service. In most cases, these basics can fix the problem right away. However, if they do not produce the desired result, we will try some tried and tested tricks that have worked for many iDevice users. Now that the conversation is over, let’s get to work!
Make Sure You’re Signed In With The Same Apple ID On Your Devices
First of all, make sure you are signed in with the same Apple ID on your iDevices. If you haven’t already, go to: Settings app and System Preferences on iPhone/iPad Sign in to your Mac and then immediately to your Apple ID account.
Make Sure Two-Factor Authentication Is Enabled
Another thing you need to do beforehand is to enable two-factor authentication for your Apple ID. For the unfamiliar, it adds an additional layer of protection to your data so it doesn’t fall victim to hacking. Apple recommends turning it on, so be sure to enable it.
on iOS and iPadOS
- Launch it on your iPhone or iPad Settings app > Profile > Password & Security.
2. Now, make sure Two-Factor Authentication option turned on.
on macOS
1. click on apple menu select it in the upper left corner of the screen and System Preferences.
2. Now, click Your Apple ID.
3. Next, click on Password and Security in the sidebar and then Two-Factor Authentication option is active.
Make Sure You Set Up iCloud Keychain
The third basic requirement is iCloud Keychain – Apple’s password management system that stores sensitive information such as website/app passwords and keeps them updated across devices. If it is disabled on your device, make sure you enable it.
on iOS and iPadOS
- Start Settings app > Profile > iCloud.
2. Now, tap on Key chain and then turn on the switch iCloud Keychain.
The problem should be resolved now. However, if you haven’t fixed the problem yet, give a shot at a few solutions that did the trick for many iDevice users.
Turn off/on Messages in iCloud on your devices
Sometimes a simple reboot tends to fix some minor bugs. Therefore, it would be wise to first give the “Messages in iCloud” feature a new stance. One thing worth noting is that when you disable it, your message history is placed in a separate iCloud backup. Don’t worry, all your messages will stay safe.
on iOS and iPadOS
- Open Settings app > Profile > iCloud.
2. Now, turn off the switch. Messages. After that restart your device. After the reboot, return to the same setting and then turn on the toggle for Messages.
Note: When you turn off the toggle, a popup will appear saying “Messages have been fully downloaded to this device”. Tap on Disable Message and Download In the pop-up window to continue
on macOS
1. Open Messages Click the application > icon Messages select the menu in the upper left corner of the screen and Preferences
2. Now, click on Messages tab.
3. Next, check the box Enable Messages in iCloud.
Sign Out of Your Apple ID and Sign In Again
If you’ve followed all the basics and messages aren’t syncing yet, sign out of your Apple ID on all your connected devices, and then sign back in. I can vouch for this trick as it worked for me. When syncing Messages between iDevices.
on iOS and iPadOS
- Open Settings app > Profile > Sign Out.
2. On “Keep a copy of your data on this iPhone/iPad?” Make sure to turn on the toggles for related options like Contacts, Keychain, Safari, and Stocks on the screen. Next, tap on Sign out in the upper right.
Now restart your device and sign in to your Apple ID.
on macOS
1. click on apple menu in the upper left corner and select System Preferences.
2. Now, click Your Apple ID.
3. Click overview in the sidebar.
4. Next, click on Sign out.
Note: Just like iOS, macOS requires you to keep a copy of important data such as contacts and calendars. To ensure you stay on the safer side even if something goes wrong, keep a copy of the data.
Update Your Devices
No solution yet? I guess a hidden error might be preventing messages from syncing. In this case, the right way to proceed is to seek help from a software update. Considering that every new update comes with lots of improvements and bug fixes, hopefully this issue can be fixed.
on iOS and iPadOS
1. Open Settings application > General.
2. Tap on Software update. Now, download and install the update as you normally would.
on macOS
1. click apple menu > System Preferences.
2. Software update option, and then update your macOS device as usual.
Fix iMessage Not Syncing with iCloud Issue
Hopefully after trying the above solutions “Messages in iCloud” is finally on its way. As I mentioned above, doing a fresh reboot to the feature will mostly fix the issue. If this is not clicked, logout/login and software update are usually the tricks that do the job. Anyway, let me know the trick that worked for you. Also, tell us about new features like: setting up an iMessage profile This has arrived at the stock messaging app. And improvements to Apple’s messaging app that you still want to see.
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