Short answer: iCloud Backup saves a periodic copy of iPhone information that is not already synchronizing with iCloud. Settings, Home Screen arrangement, local app data, and (when their dedicated sync services are off) photos, videos, and messages can be in the backup. Data already synchronized through iCloud is kept in those services instead of being duplicated in the daily backup.
That split explains most surprises after a restore. Photos, messages, mail, iCloud Drive files, and purchased media may be absent from the backup payload yet return later through synchronization or a fresh download. The exact result depends on the iCloud services enabled when the snapshot was made and on how each app stores its data.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
The governing rule: backup versus synchronization
Apple describes iCloud Backup as a copy of information on an iPhone that is not already synced to iCloud. Think of two related systems:
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
- Synchronization keeps a cloud database current across devices. iCloud Photos, Messages in iCloud, iCloud Drive, and iCloud Mail are examples.
- Backup stores a device snapshot for information that would otherwise exist only on the iPhone.
A single category therefore cannot be labeled simply “included” or “excluded” without checking its sync setting. A photo library with iCloud Photos disabled is treated differently from one with iCloud Photos enabled. The same is true of messages. A backup can complete successfully while containing neither category because the data is already held by its synchronization service.
#1 Best Overall
- 【Versatile Storage Expansion – For Gaming, Work & Everyday Use】 Running out of space on your PS5 or Xbox Series X/S? This external hard drive lets you store and play PS4 / Xbox One games directly, instantly freeing up your console’s internal storage for next‑gen titles. At the same time, it handles work file backups, media libraries, and cross‑device data transfers with ease. One drive, all your needs. *（Note: PS5 / Xbox Series X|S games cannot be run or stored directly from the external hard drive. However, by offloading your PS4 / Xbox One games, you can free up valuable space for newer titles.）*
- 【Patented Silicone Sleeve – Data Protection You Can Count On】 Worried about drops? We’ve got you covered. The patented built‑in silicone sleeve acts like a shock‑absorbing armor, cushioning your drive against bumps and falls. Whether it’s important work documents, precious family photos, or hard‑earned game saves, your data deserves this level of protection.
- 【Plug & Play, Compatible with Computers & Consoles】 No complicated setup—just plug in and go. Works seamlessly with Windows, Mac, and Linux computers, as well as PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S. Process files at the office, back up data at home, or enjoy gaming in your downtime—one drive handles all your devices, simply and hassle‑free.
- 【USB 3.0 Ultra‑Fast Transfer – No More Waiting】 Tired of watching progress bars crawl? With USB 3.0 speeds up to 5Gbps, large files transfer in seconds. Whether you’re moving work documents, transferring hundreds of gigs of games, or backing up a year’s worth of photos, you get more done in less time.
- 【Sleek, Lightweight, and Ready to Go】 Weighing just 0.16 kg—lighter than a can of soda—this compact drive features a stylish mirror‑and‑frosted finish. Toss it in your bag and go, whether you’re heading to the office, visiting a friend for a gaming session, or giving a presentation on the road.
What is embedded in an iCloud backup
The following items are copied into the device backup when the stated conditions apply.
| Category | Embedded in backup | Sync-setting dependency | What happens during restoration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Device settings and layout | Yes: system settings, Home Screen layout, and app organization | Not dependent on a separate content-sync switch | Settings and arrangement are recreated from the snapshot |
| Downloaded-app data | Generally yes, including data from third-party social, game, and messaging apps and Apple apps that do not sync with iCloud | Depends on the app’s storage design; data held in iCloud Drive is separate | Restored with the app when the app and its data are available |
| iMessage, SMS, and MMS | Yes only when Messages in iCloud is off | Messages in iCloud on means messages are synchronized instead | Either restored from the snapshot or returned by Messages in iCloud |
| Photos and videos | Yes, including People & Pets face information, when iCloud Photos is off | iCloud Photos on moves the library to synchronization | Either restored from backup or synchronized from iCloud Photos |
| Notes | Locally stored notes can be included | Notes already in iCloud are synchronized separately | Local notes come from backup; iCloud notes arrive through sync |
| Paired Apple Watch | The paired watch’s backup is included in the iPhone backup | No separate iPhone backup switch is specified | Watch information can be recovered with the iPhone restore |
| Ringtones and Visual Voicemail | Purchased ringtones and the Visual Voicemail password are included | The password requires the SIM card or eSIM used when the backup was made | Ringtones can be recovered; Visual Voicemail access depends on that original SIM or eSIM |
Settings, layout, and organization
An iCloud backup preserves the iPhone’s configuration rather than just a list of files. Device settings, the Home Screen layout, and the organization of apps are part of the snapshot. This is why a restored iPhone can be arranged much like the old one even while some content is still downloading.
App data is usually included, but not every app stores data locally
Data created inside downloaded apps is generally backed up. Apple specifically includes examples such as third-party social-media apps, games, and messaging apps, along with Apple apps whose data does not synchronize with iCloud. The important qualification is the app’s own storage design. If an app places its records in iCloud Drive, those records belong to iCloud Drive and are not carried as part of the device-backup payload. An app can also require its own account sign-in or server download after installation; the backup rule does not guarantee that every server-side record is embedded.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Messages depend on Messages in iCloud
With Messages in iCloud disabled, iMessage, SMS, and MMS are included in the iPhone backup. With it enabled, those conversations synchronize to iCloud and are deliberately left out of the daily backup. A restore can therefore show an empty or partial Messages app at first while synchronization catches up, rather than indicating that the backup failed.
Rank #2
- All-in-One Design: 1TB external hard drive, multi-port hub and SD/TF card reader combine to provide ample storage and comprehensive connectivity in a single device for seamless multi-device connectivity to enhance your productivity.
- Multiple Interface Support: The product has a built-in 1TB hard disk and supports USB-C, USB 3.2, USB 2.0, SD card slot and TF card slot, which meets the needs of daily work. The product connects to the computer via data cable to realize multi-device interoperability.
- Dual Socket Data Connection Cable: Equipped with USB 3.2 and USB-C dual socket data connection cable, suitable for more models.
- Wide compatibility: Supports Windows, Mac OS, Linux, Android, iOS （iPhone 15 and Later） and other operating systems. Support Desktops, Laptops, SmartPhones, Tablets, TVs and other devices.
- Note: This is only compatible with Apple devices that have a USB‑C port (including iPhone 15 and later, as well as all iPads with USB‑C). Using a Lightning to USB‑C adapter will not resolve the compatibility issue.
Photos, videos, and People & Pets information depend on iCloud Photos
When iCloud Photos is off, photos and videos stored on the iPhone can be included, along with People & Pets face information. When iCloud Photos is on, the media library and that associated information are synchronized through iCloud Photos instead of copied into the daily device backup. The setting at the time of the snapshot matters; changing it later does not retroactively change what an earlier backup contained.
Local and iCloud Notes are handled differently
Notes stored only on the iPhone can be part of the backup. Notes already stored in iCloud are delivered by synchronization after the restore. If a Notes folder appears empty immediately after setup, identify whether those notes were local or in iCloud before assuming they were lost.
What iCloud Backup excludes or restores elsewhere
| Data or setting | In the backup? | How it returns, if it does | Why the distinction matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| iCloud Photos media | No | Delivered by iCloud Photos synchronization | It is already stored in a dedicated iCloud service |
| Messages in iCloud conversations | No | Delivered by Messages in iCloud synchronization | Messages are not duplicated in the device snapshot |
| iCloud Drive files | No | Downloaded from iCloud Drive | App data located there is outside the backup payload |
| iCloud Mail, Gmail, Exchange, and other hosted mail | Mailbox contents no; account settings can be included | Mail is retrieved again from the provider | A backup does not act as an offline mailbox archive |
| Purchased apps, music, films, TV programmes, books, and other store content | The purchase record is included; the content itself is not | Eligible items are downloaded again from Apple services | Redownloads can vary by country or region; refunded or removed items may be unavailable |
| Apple Pay information and settings | No | Not restored from the backup | Payment credentials and settings require separate security handling |
| Face ID and Touch ID settings | No | Not restored from the backup | Biometric enrollment is not copied into the snapshot |
| iCloud Music Library | No | Reappears through its cloud service when available | Music-library data is synchronized separately |
| Offline maps | No | Downloaded again in the map app | Offline map packages are explicitly excluded |
Cloud-hosted mail is not archived by the iPhone backup
For iCloud Mail or another provider such as Gmail or Exchange, the backup can preserve account settings, but not the messages sitting on the provider’s servers. After restoration, the Mail app connects to that service and retrieves the mailbox. This is why a restored phone may need network access and account authentication before older mail appears.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Purchases are represented by records, not bundled files
Apple’s security documentation says an iCloud backup contains records for purchased music, movies, television shows, apps, and books, not the purchased content itself. Eligible purchases are normally downloaded again from Apple services. Availability is not guaranteed in every country or region, and an item that was refunded or removed may no longer be downloadable. A successful backup therefore does not guarantee that every historical store item can be reinstalled.
Rank #3
- Capacity Display Variance: 500GB external ssd often appears as around 465GB on Windows. MacOS can show full 500 GB capacity. This is binary calculation difference and doesn’t affect SSD hard drive actual physical storage
- 1050 MB/s Speed: Instantly access to your files with blazing-fast 10Gbps external SSD read up to 1050MB/s and write up to 1000MB/s. LED Light indicates USB SSD instant activity
- Data Security: Solid state drives S.M.A.R.T. health diagnostics and adaptive TRIM optimizing data block management ensures consistent write speeds and extends the longevity of the portable SSD
- USB-C & USB-A Cable: Both cables featuring rapid USB 3.2 Gen2, this USB SSD effortlessly bridges devices, enabling seamless cross-platform file transfers and backup between computers, smartphones, tablets and iPhone
- Always Fast: No slowdowns for large file transfers. With SLC caching (25% of current available capacity allocated as high-speed cache), this external SSD delivers steady 10Gbps for transfers within the cache capacity
Security-sensitive credentials and downloads are intentionally left out
Apple Pay information, Face ID or Touch ID settings, iCloud Music Library data, and offline maps are listed as excluded. These omissions are different from a missing file: the platform does not place those items in the device-backup package. You must configure biometric and payment features again, and download offline map areas again, after restoring.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.When iCloud Backup runs and how to start one
Automatic daily backup requirements
Automatic iCloud Backup runs daily only when all three conditions are met: the iPhone is connected to power, the screen is locked, and the phone is connected to Wi‑Fi. If any condition is missing, the daily snapshot may not occur on that schedule.
Manual backup path
- Open Settings.
- Tap [your name] at the top.
- Choose iCloud.
- Tap iCloud Backup.
- Select Back Up Now.
Use a manual backup before replacing an iPhone or making a major change when you need a current snapshot rather than waiting for the next automatic run. The snapshot still follows the same inclusion rules: data already synchronized to iCloud is not duplicated inside it.
Retention after turning backup off
Apple’s 2025 support guidance says stored backups are kept for 180 days after iCloud Backup is turned off for a device before deletion. Turning the feature off is therefore not a way to preserve an old backup indefinitely.
Rank #4
- Capacity Display Variance: 1TB external ssd often appears as around 931GB on Windows. MacOS can show full 1 TB capacity. This is binary calculation difference and doesn’t affect SSD hard drive actual physical storage
- 1050 MB/s Speed: Instantly access to your files with blazing-fast 10Gbps external SSD read up to 1050MB/s and write up to 1000MB/s. LED Light indicates USB SSD instant activity
- Data Security: Solid state drives S.M.A.R.T. health diagnostics and adaptive TRIM optimizing data block management ensures consistent write speeds and extends the longevity of the portable SSD
- USB-C & USB-A Cable: Both cables featuring rapid USB 3.2 Gen2, this USB SSD effortlessly bridges devices, enabling seamless cross-platform file transfers and backup between computers, smartphones, tablets and iPhone
- Always Fast: No slowdowns for large file transfers. With SLC caching (25% of current available capacity allocated as high-speed cache), this external SSD delivers steady 10Gbps for transfers within the cache capacity
Why a restore can look incomplete
Restoration is a sequence, not a single download. The backup recreates the device snapshot first; synchronized services, mail providers, and store downloads can populate their data separately. Use the symptom to identify the correct source.
Photos or videos are missing
- Check whether iCloud Photos was enabled when the old iPhone was backed up. If it was, the media is expected to arrive through iCloud Photos rather than from the backup.
- If iCloud Photos was off, the media could be in the snapshot; allow the restore to finish before judging the result.
- People & Pets face information follows the same iCloud Photos condition as the photos and videos.
Messages are missing
- Messages in iCloud enabled: conversations are synchronized separately and are not part of the daily backup.
- Messages in iCloud disabled: iMessage, SMS, and MMS can be restored from the device snapshot.
- Do not treat an initially empty Messages app as proof of failure until the relevant iCloud synchronization has had time to complete.
An app opens without its old data
- Confirm whether the app stored its data locally or in iCloud Drive.
- Data in iCloud Drive is restored from that service, not from the backup payload.
- Some apps depend on their own online accounts or servers, so the app may need its normal sign-in and download process.
Mail or purchases have not returned
- Mail contents come from iCloud Mail, Gmail, Exchange, or the relevant provider; the backup stores account settings rather than the mailbox.
- Purchased content is redownloaded when eligible. Check country or region availability and whether an item was refunded or removed.
The backup seems old
Automatic snapshots require power, a locked iPhone, and Wi‑Fi. If the phone was not in that state, run Back Up Now and verify the backup date before relying on it for a replacement or restore.
A practical pre-restore checklist
- Record whether iCloud Photos is on or off.
- Record whether Messages in iCloud is on or off.
- Identify notes and app files that live only on the device versus in iCloud or an app’s own account.
- Confirm that important purchases are still available in your country or region.
- Make a current manual backup while connected to power and Wi‑Fi.
- Keep the SIM card or eSIM used for the backup if Visual Voicemail access matters.
- Plan to set up Apple Pay and Face ID or Touch ID again, because those settings are not transferred.
How iCloud Backup is protected
Apple documents encryption for iCloud Backup. When Advanced Data Protection for iCloud is enabled, the service key for iCloud Backup is protected with end-to-end encryption and is available only to the user’s trusted devices. This changes who can access the key; it does not change the inclusion rule that synchronized data is kept in its own iCloud service rather than duplicated in the backup.
The decision rule to remember
To predict whether a particular item will be present after an iCloud restore, ask four questions in order: Is it stored locally on the iPhone? Is a dedicated iCloud sync service enabled for it? Does the app keep it in iCloud Drive or on its own server? Is it a security-sensitive setting or a downloadable purchase? Those answers distinguish data copied into the snapshot from data that must synchronize, redownload, or be configured again.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
