iPhone Users Can Now Easily Transfer Google Photos to iCloud

Switching from Android to iPhone has become significantly easier for Google Photos users thanks to a recent upgrade to Google Takeout. This new feature allows Apple users to transfer or back up their photos and videos from Google Photos to iCloud Photos without the need to download each image manually. This improvement stems from the Data Transfer Project (DTP), an initiative focused on simplifying the data transfer process between otherwise incompatible platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Flickr, and Google Photos. Previously, since 2021, iCloud Photos users could use the DTP tool to move their data to Google Photos. Now, with this latest update, the process is equally straightforward in the opposite direction, allowing bulk transfers of Google Photos content to iCloud Photos. This update is especially advantageous for those wishing to utilize Apple’s end-to-end encrypted Advanced Data Protection or explore the newly redesigned Photos app in iOS 18.

The DTP transfer tool works by copying files rather than moving them, providing users ample time to verify the successful transfer of their data before deleting the originals. This approach offers flexibility, as users can choose to continue using both platforms if they are willing to manage two ongoing subscriptions. To initiate the transfer, users must first ensure that Advanced Data Protection is turned off on iCloud, which can be re-enabled once the transfer is complete. The process begins by visiting Google Takeout, selecting Photos, and following the provided setup instructions. The tool’s efficiency significantly reduces the time required compared to manual downloads and re-uploads, with transfers typically taking several hours to a few days, depending on the data volume.

The tool supports a wide range of file types, including common photo formats like .jpg, .png, .gif, .webp, and .avif, as well as most raw files. Supported video formats include .mp4, .mov, .m4v, .mpg, .mkv, .mod, .mmv, .avi, .divx, .tod, .wmv, .asf, .3gp, .3g2, .m2t, .m2ts, and .mts files. In cases where the same photo or video exists in both Google Photos and iCloud Photos, iCloud Photos will identify duplicates and allow users to merge them individually or in bulk. This ensures a seamless transition without the risk of losing valuable content or metadata.

The importance of the Data Transfer Project cannot be overstated. Without this tool, users would face the daunting task of downloading thousands of photos and videos manually from one service and then re-uploading them to another, which could result in the loss of critical metadata such as time, date, and location information. This manual process involves transferring all data twice and finding local storage solutions before uploading to the desired platform. Users might also need third-party applications like MetaFixer to reorganize their files and repair metadata before the upload. However, with the DTP tool, these challenges are mitigated, offering a streamlined and secure method for managing data transfers between Google Photos and iCloud Photos. This tool not only saves time but also ensures data integrity and security, providing a reliable solution for users looking to switch platforms while preserving their digital memories.