iCloud Backup Not Working on iPhone XS Max? Here’s How to Fix It

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If iCloud backup isn’t working on your iPhone XS Max, it could be due to storage issues, network problems, or a glitch in your settings. Whether your backups are failing or the option is greyed out, here are the most effective fixes to get iCloud working again.

Check iCloud Storage Space First

Your iPhone won’t back up if your iCloud storage is full.

  • Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > Manage Storage.
  • If your 5GB free limit is full, either:
    • Delete old backups, or
    • Upgrade your iCloud plan by tapping Change Storage Plan.

Make Sure iCloud Backup Is Turned On

  • Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup.
  • Make sure the iCloud Backup toggle is ON.
  • Tap Back Up Now to test if it works.

Restart Your iPhone

A simple reboot often clears minor glitches:

  1. Press and hold the Side button + Volume Up or Down.
  2. Slide to power off.
  3. After 30 seconds, turn the phone back on.

Delete Old iCloud Backups

If your storage is nearly full and you don’t want to upgrade:

  • Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > Manage Storage > Backups.
  • Select your iPhone.
  • Tap Delete Backup, then confirm.

Also check iCloud Drive files in the Files app > Browse > iCloud Drive and delete unused files.

Turn Off Restrictions (If Backup Option Is Greyed Out)

Restrictions can block iCloud settings:

  • Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions.
  • Turn off the Content & Privacy Restrictions toggle.

Sign Out and Back Into iCloud

This refreshes your iCloud session and fixes syncing issues:

  • Go to Settings > [Your Name], scroll down and tap Sign Out.
  • Enter your Apple ID password and choose what to keep on your phone.
  • Restart the device and sign back in.

Reset Network Settings

If the issue is tied to a network glitch:

  1. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
  2. Tap Reset > Reset Network Settings.
  3. Reconnect to Wi-Fi and try backing up again.

Check Apple’s System Status Page

If iCloud Backup is temporarily unavailable, check:

  • Visit Apple’s System Status and look for iCloud Backup.
  • If it’s down, you’ll need to wait until Apple resolves the issue.

Backup with iTunes as an Alternative

If nothing works, you can manually back up your iPhone to a computer:

  1. Open iTunes on your Mac/PC.
  2. Connect your iPhone via USB.
  3. Select your device icon and click Back Up Now.

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