How to Fix? 9 Solutions to Stuck in iCloud Drive is Loading

Some users have encountered an issue where iCloud Drive remains stuck on the loading phase and never fully loads. To elaborate, they may come across an error message that states, "iCloud Drive is loading..." when attempting to access their iCloud Drive content in the Files app, as depicted in the screenshot below:

This problem causes you not to be able to view or edit your files using iCloud Drive. This issue may occur on an iPhone or iPad. Don’t worry. In this guide, we will help you get out of the issue.

Why does it say iCloud Drive is loading?

iPhone iCloud drive is loading forever can result from several reasons. And the following are some of the main causes of it:

• Poor or no Internet connection
• Large files or folders
• iCloud server issues
• Software or app-related problems
• Insufficient iCloud storage
• Incorrect iCloud setting

Now that we understand the potential causes, let's explore the solutions to fix iCloud Drive not syncing.

8 solutions to iCloud Drive is loading issue

Here you can get solutions to iCloud Drive loading forever issue on iPhone/iPad. You can try the solutions one after another until your issue gets fixed. If you are in a hurry to check files in iCloud Drive, the next part offers you a quick solution to avoid spending time to troubleshoot.

1# Check your Internet connection

Before attempting any other fixes, ensure that your devices are connected to a stable and reliable internet connection. A poor or no connection will impede the syncing process. You can switch between Wi-Fi and cellular data on your iPhone to troubleshoot connectivity issues.

2# Check iCloud system status

Sometimes, the problem isn't on your end but rather on Apple's servers. Apple provides a system status page that allows you to check if iCloud services are experiencing any issues. Here's how to do it:

To have a check, visit the Apple System Status page, look for any ongoing issues with iCloud services. If there are problems reported, you may need to wait until Apple resolves them.

3# Update iOS to the latest version

Outdated operating systems can lead to compatibility problems with iCloud Drive. Please make sure your devices are running the latest operating system versions to ensure compatibility with iCloud Drive.

To check and update iOS, go to Settings > Scroll down and select General > Tap Software Update to check for and install any available updates.

4# Check iCloud storage

An enough available iCloud storage is also necessary to accommodate your data. And insufficient iCloud storage can prevent syncing. Therefore, if you get iCloud drive is loading stuck, you may need to free up space or upgrade your storage plan to make iCloud Drive work again.

To check iCloud storage space, navigate to Settings > Tap [your name] > iCloud > Manage Account Storage (or Manage Storage in iOS 15 and earlier).

If necessary, you can delete old backups on iCloud to free up space, or tap Upgrade to iCloud + upgrade your iCloud storage plan.

5# Reduce data size

If you have a significant amount of data in your iCloud Drive, it may take longer to load. Reducing the size of your data can help speed up the loading process. Here's what you can do:

• Delete unnecessary or duplicate files.

• Move large files or folders to your local storage (if you have enough space).

Reducing the size of your data can not only resolve the loading issue but also help you manage your iCloud storage efficiently.

6# Restart iCloud Drive

If you are still having this issue, let’s try to turn off and on iCloud Drive. This process helps reset your iCloud Drive on your iPhone and may resolve the loading issue.

To turn off iCloud Drive, go to Settings > [your name] > iCloud and toggle off iCloud Drive.

Now restart your iPhone or iPad, and again go to Settings > [your name] > iCloud and turn on iCloud Drive.

7# Force restart iPhone

In most case, force restarting your iPhone is one of the effective solutions to solve iCloud Drive is loading problem. Follow the steps below to force restart iPhone depending on its model.

• iPhone 8 and later with Face ID: Press and quickly release the Volume + button > Perform the same operation on the Volume - button > Press the Side button and release when you see the Apple logo.

• iPhone 7/7 Plus: Press and hold both the Volume - button and the Power button > Release both buttons when the Apple logo appears.

• iPhone 6s or earlier: Press both the Power button and the Home button for seconds > Release both buttons when the Apple logo appears.

8# Contact Apple Support

If none of the above solutions work and you're still stuck in the iCloud Drive loading loop, it's advisable to contact Apple Support. They can provide more specific guidance tailored to your situation or help you resolve the issue through advanced troubleshooting steps.

Quick fix: Check iCloud Drive files on PC via FoneTool

Without spending time fixing the issue, some third-party tools like FoneTool can help you access iCloud Drive files on PC directly. Besides, FoneTool also supports you in uploading and downloading files on iCloud Drive with no effort. 

Get this freeware on your computer by clicking the icon below, and follow the steps below to access and manage iCloud Drive files with FoneTool.

Step 1. Launch FoneTool and choose My iCloud from the left pane > Sign in with your iCloud account > You will be asked to enter the verification code to confirm.

Step 2. Tap Manage iCloud > Choose iCloud Drive, and you can browse all iCloud Drive files here. On this page, you can upload, download, and delete files in iCloud Drive.

Summary

In conclusion, being stuck in the page “iCloud Drive is loading” loop can be a frustrating experience, but with the right troubleshooting steps, you can resolve the issue and get your iCloud Drive functioning smoothly again. Whether the problem is related to your internet connection, software, or iCloud server status, these solutions should help you overcome the loading problem and enjoy the convenience of iCloud Drive as intended.