How does iCloud Drive for Desktop & Documents folder work?
Jul 08, 2025 am 12:43 AMiCloud Drive's Desktop & Documents folder feature enables cross-device synchronization by migrating desktop and document folders to iCloud. 1. After turning on, the system automatically moves the file to iCloud Drive to maintain local display and access experience; 2. When connected to the network, the file can be edited and synchronized to other devices at any time; 3. When the Mac is insufficient in storage space, the files will "slim down", retain only the icons and names, and the content will be downloaded as needed; 4. Set the path to macOS Settings → Apple ID → iCloud → Check "iCloud Drive" → Click "Options" and enable "Desktop and Document Folders"; 5. Notes include: First uploading requires stable network, third-party backup tools may affect compatibility, and may cause path errors or duplicate files when closing functions; 6. Suitable for multi-device users and people who want to access files conveniently, but not for users with slow network speed or prefer local management of files.
The Desktop & Documents folder function of iCloud Drive is simply to help you automatically synchronize desktop and document folders on your Mac to iCloud. This allows you to access these files on any device that is logged in to the same Apple ID.
How to achieve synchronization?
After turning on this function, the desktop and document folders on the Mac are actually "moved" to iCloud Drive. In other words, the files on the desktop you see actually exist in the cloud, but the system displays them as easy to access as local files. As long as you have a network, you can open and edit it at any time, and changes will be automatically synchronized to other devices.
It should be noted that if your Mac has tight storage space, the system will automatically "slim" some uncommonly used files, only retaining the icons and file names, and downloading the content from the cloud when you need it.
Opening methods and precautions
If you want to use this function, you can find "Apple ID" → "iCloud" → check "iCloud Drive", then click "Options", and then check "Desktop and Document Folder". After confirmation, the system will start migrating your files.
A few things to note:
- The network should be stable, especially when uploading a large number of files for the first time.
- If you use a third-party backup tool (such as Time Machine), it is best to check compatibility.
- If this feature is turned off, the file will be moved back to the local area, but there may be path errors or duplicate saving problems.
Who is suitable for use?
This feature is best for people who switch devices frequently, such as editing documents on a Mac in the office, viewing on an iPad at home, or browsing on an iPhone. It is also suitable for users who don't want to manually manage files and want everything to be on hand.
However, if your computer is average, the internet speed is slow, or you are used to managing file structure locally, you may have to weigh the pros and cons. After all, not all files are suitable for being placed in the cloud.
Basically that's it. It is not complicated to set up, but if you really want to use it well, you still have to understand its working mechanism and limitations.
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