I might go with the new 12TB iCloud+ option — if it offered extensive Mac backup

Apple has announced that starting on September 18, iCloud+ will offer two new plans: 6TB for US$29.99 per month and 12TB for $59.99 per month. However, since Apple still hasn’t added extensive backup for Mac files, I’m not sure if I’ll upgrade.

One of the things that’s extremely convenient in the Apple ecosystem is the ability to back up your iPhone and iPad files to iCloud. Among other advantages: this makes moving your data to a new smartphone or tablet very easy. Now it’s time for iCloud back-up for the Mac.

Why hasn’t Apple hasn’t already done this? It’s a no-brainer, and could add a little more profit to their ever-growing list of Apple Services.

But let me explain. It’s true that iCloud already backs up your most important data if you have enough space to do so. You can do this via iCloud Settings under System Preferences > Apple ID. Toggle “Photos” on to back up your media and click “Options” next to iCloud Drive. Then, enable Documents and Desktop backup, too.

However, iCloud Drive only syncs user files with the server. No system files or system backups are performed. This means that if you needed to restore a new Mac, you can only retrieve your files (such as your documents and photos) from iCloud Drive. You won’t be able to restore your entire system from the cloud.

Currently, my (and probably your) Mac back-up strategy is using Time Machine for local files and iCloud for offsite back-ups of Documents, Desktop, and Photos. However, I want an iCloud option similar ago that for my iPhone and iPad. 

Apple offers iCloud storage in different tiers/pricing; I’m willing to pay for the online storage for all Mac files. This would offer double back-up protection: Time Machine and full back-up in iCloud. 

If you want to make sure that your files are ultra-protected, off-site backup is necessary. So, c’mon, Apple, let us back up our Mac files to iCloud. 

By the way, when it comes to the new iCloud+ storage options, Apple hasn’t said if there’s a discount if you make an annual payment or how this affects users (like me) who have an Apple One bundle subscription. Currently Apple One costs $32.95 per month for the Premier tier which is the one with 2TB of iCloud storage.