In the context of the recent launch of iOS 17, iPadOS 17, and macOS Sonoma, Apple has also carried out a significant update to the iCloud website, incorporating several of the new features present in these operating systems. The revamp underscores Cupertino’s company’s intent to provide a more consistent experience across devices and, at the same time, rich in functionalities.
A hub for all the information we store in iCloud
One of the most notable changes is the ability to customize the iCloud home page. Now, we can select specific folders for the Notes app, choose a specific mailbox in the Mail app, or display only our favorite Photos, among other configurations. Furthermore, the widgets or “tiles,” as they are called on the web, have become interactive. For instance, it’s possible to mark a reminder as completed or archive an email directly from these tiles. This undoubtedly streamlines our daily tasks by offering quick actions without the need to enter the applications themselves.
Notifications have also been incorporated into the browser for iCloud apps. This means we can now receive alerts for new emails or calendar event invitations directly in our web browser, enhancing the experience for those who, for example, use iCloud from a PC.
The design has undergone a revamp, affecting key applications like Calendar, Contacts, Reminders, or iCloud Drive. Among the new features in iCloud Mail, the undo send function stands out, allowing us to retract an email before it reaches the recipient’s inbox. In iCloud Drive, there’s now a list view of files and the ability to preview them before opening or downloading, similar to how it works on a Mac: by pressing the space bar.
Regarding Photos, the Memories feature has been integrated, allowing full-screen viewing of these memories. Additionally, there’s a slideshow mode for photo selections. On the other hand, the Notes app has introduced the option to link notes together, collaborate on shared folders, and enjoy a search with suggestions to quickly find anything. Finally, the Reminders app has also received updates, now allowing further customization of reminders by adding dates, locations, and more information to them.
With the iCloud.com update, we see the evolution of Apple’s ecosystem beyond just the iPhone, iPad, or Mac devices. The company continues to emphasize a unified experience across devices and platforms. So, even users accessing iCloud from a browser on a PC can enjoy a more seamless experience. This experience is enhanced by iOS 17 and its extensive list of features, offering a little bit more for everyone.
