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Apple has released a new iCloud for Windows app update that takes a big leap forward for iOS and Mac users who also want to access their content on Windows.
With the newly redesigned iCloud Windows app, which is now available for free via Microsoft's App Store as version 15.0.214, users can sync their iCloud photos to a folder on Windows, access iCloud files on Windows through File Explorer, sync and view iCloud contacts on Microsoft Outlook, and merge Safari and iCloud bookmarks on Chrome, Firefox, or Edge.
The new iCloud Windows app also supports shared album creation from Windows, as well as continual iCloud photo synching to Microsoft Photos for those using Windows 11.
On the security front, iCloud version 15.0.214 brings big quality-of-life updates for those looking to merge their saved passwords across their iOS, Mac, and Windows devices. Saved iCloud passwords will now be available on Windows when you're logged in and can autofill passwords.
The update also claims to reduce the number of times iCloud will randomly prompt you to sign in again, which has been a common complaint according to the app's user reviews.
Those with physical security keys for their Apple ID accounts will also now be able to use them to log into iCloud on Windows, according to the app's Microsoft Store page.
The revamped iCloud for Windows only promises improved photos, contacts, and calendar syncing for those on Windows 11. The app's store page states it can be compatible with Windows 10 users operating on version 18362.145 or newer, but Apple's system requirements recommend PC users to install iCloud on Windows 11 or later.
A quick test of the new iCloud on Windows 10 Home version 19045.3930 yields poor results. The app will download and install and offers the full onboarding login experience, but repeated efforts to launch the app afterward result in it automatically closing itself, even when running it as an administrator.
Over the years, the Windows iCloud app has received many negative, 1-star reviews. Numerous user reviews have reported that the app never worked or they were unable to sign in on previous versions.
A handful of new reviews suggest these issues have been resolved for some, with one user writing: "This app looked terrible for the longest time. It was counterintuitive and half the features just didn't work. Apple finally gave this app the well overdue redesign it deserved and now it's actually pretty great."
One user reported that the new iCloud version has gotten stuck in the photo-syncing process, however.
Back in September, Apple redesigned its web browser version of iCloud, adding features like enhanced notifications, photo slideshows, and a better search function.
Apple has only released a handful of apps for the Microsoft Store besides iCloud, offering Windows versions of iTunes, Apple TV, Apple Music, and an Apple Devices manager app. But at time of writing, only Apple TV and Apple Music have a rating of over 4 stars.
As MacRumors notes, these apps have been in preview since last year, and officially launched this week. But iTunes is hanging around for now mostly for playing podcasts and audiobooks.