Is your Google Drive or iCloud full? Free up space quickly with these tips

Cloud storage has become an essential part of daily life — whether you’re working remotely, sharing photos with loved ones, or keeping important files safe. Apple iCloud and Google Drive are two of the most popular services, offering secure, convenient, and easily accessible storage. However, having cloud storage is just the first step — learning how to optimise it can help you save space, work more efficiently, and avoid unnecessary digital clutter.

1. iCloud vs Google Drive: Which cloud storage is best for you?

Before diving in, it’s important to know what each service offers.

• Apple iCloud integrates seamlessly with iPhones, iPads, and Macs, offering up to 2TB of storage and automatic backups for photos, messages, and app data.

• Google Drive offers 15GB free storage and is shared across Gmail, Google Photos, and Drive, with affordable paid plans under Google One.

Choose based on the devices you use most and how you prefer to manage your data. Many people use both, depending on personal and work needs.

2. How to organise and declutter files on iCloud or Google Drive

A tidy cloud is a productive cloud. Create a clear folder structure, label documents logically, and use tags where available. Delete duplicates, archive old files, and move rarely used documents to lower-cost storage tiers. The cleaner your cloud, the faster you can find what you need.

Here are tips on how to further optimise your storage:

• Delete duplicates and unused files: Clear out repeated photos, outdated documents, and old downloads.
• Optimise photo storage: Use iCloud’s Optimise iPhone Storage or Google Photos’ Storage Saver setting to keep smaller file versions on your device.
• Move large files offline: Store rarely used videos or archives on an external drive instead of the cloud.
• Compress big files: Zip large documents, images, or videos before uploading.
• Use shared links instead of sending copies: This reduces duplicate storage for recipients.
• Empty the trash: Files in your deleted folder still take up space until permanently removed.
• Set up selective sync: Sync only necessary folders to each device to save space.
• Regularly review storage usage: Check your cloud storage breakdown and clear the biggest space-hogs first.

3. Enable automatic backups

Don’t leave your data’s safety to chance. Enable automatic backups on your phone, tablet, and computer. For iCloud users, this means toggling iCloud Backup in settings. Google Drive users can use the Backup and Sync tool or Google Photos auto-upload feature. This ensures that your latest work, photos, and important documents are always up to date.

4. Leverage cross-platform access

You are not restricted to one ecosystem. iCloud is accessible from Windows PCs via the iCloud app or web, while Google Drive works smoothly on iOS devices through the Google Drive app. This flexibility means you can access your files anytime, anywhere, no matter the device.

5. Check your cloud storage security and privacy settings

Your files are valuable — keep them safe. Activate two-factor authentication for both iCloud and Google accounts. Review which apps and people have access to your files and revoke permissions you no longer need. It’s also a good habit to regularly check your account’s activity log for any unusual sign-ins.

6. Sync iCloud and Google Drive with all your devices

If you’re using both cloud services for work, school, or creative projects, having the right device makes a big difference. An iPad, for example, is perfect for editing documents, organising photos, and syncing files across Apple and Google platforms. With CelcomDigi ONE, you can get an iPad for just RM1/month — giving you powerful tools to make cloud storage truly effortless.

Optimising your Apple iCloud and Google Drive services is about more than just saving storage space — it’s about making your digital life smoother, faster, and more secure. From organising files to enabling automatic backups and boosting security, these small steps can have a big impact.