Probably the best way to manage messages across iOS, iPadOS, and macOS is to sync them via iCloud. The cloud service not only keeps the entire chat history updated and easily accessible everywhere but also adds an extra shield so that they don’t get lost even if something untoward happens. That said, until recently, the feature had worked seamlessly on my iDevices ever since it rolled out in iOS 11.4. Something went wrong and it started ill-functioning. While I could rein in the problem, I thought it would be apt to share some helpful solutions to fix iMessage not syncing with iCloud issue on iPhone, iPad, and Mac as many users may have also run into the same obstacle. If you have found yourself in a similar situation, this troubleshooting guide is for you.

So, how are we going to get the better of this problem? Well, we will first check off all the essential boxes as outlined by Apple for a seamless syncing of messages with the cloud service. In most cases, those essentials can resolve the issue right away. However, if they don’t yield the desired result, we will try out some tried and tested tricks that have worked for many iDevice users. Now that the talk is over, let’s get down to business!

First things first, make sure you are signed in with the same Apple ID across your iDevices. If you aren’t already, head over to the Settings app on iPhone/iPad and System Preferences on your Mac and then sign in to your Apple ID account right now.

Another thing you must do beforehand is to enable two-factor authentication for your Apple ID. For those unfamiliar, it adds an additional layer of safeguard to your data so that it won’t fall prey to hacking. Apple recommends it to be turned on, therefore do not fail to activate it.

  • On your iPhone or iPad, launch Settings app > Profile > Password & Security.
  1. Click on the Apple menu at the top left corner of the screen and choose System Preferences.

Make Sure to Set Up iCloud Keychain

The third essential requirement is iCloud Keychain – Apple’s password management system which stores your sensitive information like website/app passwords and keeps them updated across the devices. If it’s disabled on your device, make sure to bring enable it.

  • Launch Settings app > Profile > iCloud.

Turn off/on Messages in iCloud Across Your Devices

At times, a simple reboot tends to fix some minor glitches. So, it would be wise to give a fresh stance to the “Messages in iCloud” feature first up. One thing worth noting is that when you disable it, your message history is placed inside a separate iCloud backup. Don’t worry, all of your messages will remain secure.

  • Open Settings app > Profile > iCloud.

On macOS

  1. Open Messages app > Click on the Messages menu at the top left corner of the screen and choose Preferences. 

If the messages aren’t syncing as yet even after taking care of all the basics, sign out of your Apple ID on all of your connected devices and then sign back in. Well, I can vouch for this trick as it has worked for me in syncing Messages across my iDevices.

  • Open Settings app > Profile > Sign Out.

Now, reboot your device and sign in to your Apple ID.

  1. Click on the Apple menu at the top left corner and choose System Preferences. 

  2. Click on Overview in the sidebar.

Update Your Devices

No solution as yet? I guess a hidden bug could be preventing the messages from syncing. In this case, the right way to go ahead is to take the help of a software update. Considering every new update comes with a plethora of improvements and bug fixes, I hope this problem could get a fix.

  1. Open Settings app > General.

  2. Click on Apple menu > System Preferences.

Fix iMessage Not Syncing with iCloud Issue

I hope “Messages in iCloud” has finally come back on track after trying out the above solutions. As I mentioned above, the problem is mostly fixed when you give a fresh reboot to the feature. If that doesn’t click, then the sign-out/sign-in and software update are the tricks that often get the job done. Anyway, let me know the trick that worked for you. Also, tell us about the new features like setting up an iMessage profile that has arrived in the stock messaging app. And the sort of improvements you still want to see in Apple’s messaging app.