In a significant development for photo enthusiasts, Google and Apple have jointly launched a new tool that enables seamless transfer of photos from Google Photos to iCloud. This initiative is part of the broader Data Transfer Initiative (DTI), aimed at enhancing interoperability between major tech platforms.
The new feature will be integrated into Google Takeout starting next week, automating the entire transfer process. Users can initiate the transfer directly through the website, bypassing the need for manual downloads and uploads.
Apple's support page indicates that the duration of the transfer process can vary, ranging from a few hours to several days, depending on the volume of data. Importantly, the photos will remain intact in Google Photos post-transfer unless users decide to delete them manually.
It's noteworthy that this service is not accessible for child accounts, IT-administered accounts, or iCloud accounts with advanced data protection enabled. This tool follows a similar feature introduced two years ago for transferring photos from iCloud to Google Photos.
The Data Transfer Initiative, launched in 2023, is a collaborative effort between Apple, Google, and Meta. Analysts suggest that this move aligns with the European Digital Markets Act, reflecting regulatory compliance with the European Commission's goals.
Starting next week, users can initiate the transfer process through Google Takeout, following the detailed guidelines provided by both companies to ensure a smooth and successful transfer.
Apple, Google, Google Photos, iCloud