Google and Apple Launch Tool for Seamless Photo and Video Transfer
In a significant move towards data portability, Google and Apple have unveiled a new tool that enables users to effortlessly transfer their entire image and video collections from Google Photos to iCloud Photos.
The announcement marks an expansion of the Data Transfer Project’s Data Transfer Initiative, which aims to simplify platform switching by allowing users to easily transport their data. The latest development builds on the launch of a similar tool in 2021, which facilitated transfers from iCloud Photos to Google Photos.
“Apple and Google are expanding their direct data transfer offerings to allow users of Google Photos to transfer their collections directly to iCloud Photos,” a statement from the Data Transfer Initiative page reads.
According to the announcement, the tool will be rolled out by next week. Apple has confirmed that the service will be available to its account holders in over 240 countries and regions worldwide.
It’s important to note that transfers will not delete the media from Google Photos, and users will have to manually remove the transferred files. Additionally, there is no need to download the photos or videos prior to transfer, and the process will occur directly between Google and iCloud.
The transfer process may take some time, depending on the size of the media being moved, with Apple estimating “several hours and a few days.”
Steps for Transferring Photos and Videos from Google Photos to iCloud:
1. Visit Google Takeout (google.com/settings/takeout).
2. Sign in to your Google Account.
3. Scroll to “Photos” and click “Transfer Data.”
4. Select the desired data for transfer.
5. Click “Continue.”
6. Under “Move to,” select “Apple – iCloud Photos.”
7. Click “Continue.”
8. Click “Agree and Continue” to initiate the transfer.
Upon starting and completing the transfer, Apple will send email notifications to the email addresses associated with your Apple ID account.
