Why some apps need iCloud Drive
If you opened one of my apps and saw a screen asking you to turn on iCloud Drive, this page explains why — and how to do it in under a minute.
Your data is yours — and only yours
These apps have no server of their own. Everything you create is saved as plain files in your own iCloud Drive, inside the app's private iCloud area. From there, Apple syncs it between your devices — your iPhone, your Apple Watch, and anything else signed into your iCloud.
Because that storage is yours, not even I, the developer, can see your data. It never travels through a server I run. That's the whole point: requiring iCloud Drive is what keeps your information private to you, backed up with your iCloud account, and on all your devices. It's a protection, not a hurdle.
Why the app can't just run without it
For these apps, iCloud Drive isn't an optional sync feature bolted on — it's where the app keeps everything. Without it there'd be nowhere safe to store your data and no way to keep your devices in step. So rather than quietly save your data somewhere it couldn't protect or sync, the app asks you to turn iCloud Drive on first.
How to turn on iCloud Drive
- Open Settings and tap your name at the top.
- Tap iCloud, and make sure you're signed in with your Apple Account.
- Turn on iCloud Drive (under "Saved to iCloud" → "See All").
- Reopen the app and tap Check Again.
Still seeing the screen?
- Signed in, but still blocked? The toggle you need is iCloud Drive specifically — being signed into iCloud isn't enough on its own.
- Just turned it on? Give your device a moment to connect, then tap Check Again in the app. A live internet connection helps the first time.
- On a managed or child account? Screen Time or a device-management profile can hide or lock iCloud Drive. Whoever manages the account will need to allow it.
Still stuck?
Email [email protected] — one person makes these apps, and that same person answers your mail. Tell me which app and device you're on and what you see, and I'll help.