How to Fix iCloud Photo Link Not Working on iPhone

Can't open an iCloud photo-sharing link? Here's the fix for when photo sharing is not working or because the iCloud link is not working or isn't loading. Here's how to fix it and open an iCloud link on an iPhone.

Jump To:

• iPadOS & iOS Update: Get the Latest Apple Software
• Make Sure That iCloud Photo Library & Shared Albums Are Enabled
• Make Sure the iCloud Photo Link Hasn't Expired
• Make Sure You're Connected to the Internet
• Turn Off Low Power Mode
• Log In to Your iCloud Account 
• Check the Apple System Status Page
• Do a Network Settings Reset

iCloud Photo Sharing Not Available for This Device? How to Fix iCloud Sharing Link Not Working on iPhone

It's convenient to share photos and albums on your iPhone or iPad with an iCloud link. But, what happens when an iCloud sharing link is not working? Here's how to fix an iCloud photo link not working or A video sent via iCloud not loading, and get iCloud photo sharing working on your iPhone. Be sure to check out our free Tip of the Day for more great iCloud tutorials.iPadOS & iOS Update: Get the Latest Apple Software

Apple's new software version can fix bugs, add features, and support changes in things like apps, games, and more. Stay on top of these updates, especially when you see issues with normally cooperative features like photo links! If you're getting a message that a photo-sharing link isn't working, make sure you've installed the latest iOS update or iPadOS update. If that doesn't fix the problem, move on to the next fix on our list. You can also download the Apple Support app on your iPhone.

Make Sure That iCloud Photo Library & Shared Albums Are Enabled on iPhone

If you haven't enabled iCloud Shared Albums and Photo Library, there's no way to access iCloud Photo sharing links. To enable these features:

1. Open the Settings app.
   
   
2. Tap your Apple ID profile at the top of the screen.
   
   
3. Tap iCloud.
   
   
4. Tap Photos.
   
   
5. Make sure Sync this iPhone and Shared Albums are both toggled on. Toggles are green when enabled.
   
   

Make Sure the iCloud Photo Link Hasn't Expired

If the link sent via iCloud is not loading, it could be that the iCloud Photo link is expired. An iCloud link expires after 30 days; the recipient will see a "Failed to Retrieve" error message if they open the link after that time. If this happens, you'll need to send a new iCloud link to your friend or family member.

You may also see an error message like The Album No Longer Shared or This Photo No Longer Shared if the person who sent you the iCloud link has deleted that content on their end. 

Make Sure You're Connected to the Internet

If your iPad or iPhone isn't connected to the internet, the iCloud link won't load. Make sure that your iPhone is connected to the internet via a stable Wi-Fi or cellular network. Here's how to connect an iPhone to the internet. 

Turn Off Low Power Mode

Low Power Mode on the iPhone can extend battery life by three hours, but that comes with tradeoffs. When your iPhone or iPad is in Low Power Mode, it can't quickly load images from an iCloud photo link. In this case, you'll see an iCloud link "Waiting for Photos" message. You'll need to either charge your phone until Low Power Mode turns off, or manually turn off Low Power Mode. 

1. Open the Settings app and tap Battery. 
   
   
2. Toggle off Low Power Mode. Low Power Mode is disabled when the toggle is gray.
   
   

Sign In to Your iCloud Account 

If the photos included in your link have been deleted from your iCloud Photos, then the link recipient won't be able to open them. If the iCloud photo link still isn't working, log in to your iCloud account and make sure that the photos are still there. Remember, your iCloud PhotoS library is synced across devices if you're signed in to the same account; deleting pictures on one device deletes them from your library as a whole.

Check the Apple System Status Page

The iCloud link not working fix might not be within your control at all; the problem might be on Apple's end! Visit the Apple System Status Page and make sure that iCloud services are available; you'll be able to tell because there will be a green dot next to the system name. 

Reset Network Settings on iPhone

If it seems like an iCloud photo link isn't working because your device won't connect to the internet, and you've already checked your Wi-Fi or cellular connection, you need to reset network settings.

1. Open the Settings app and tap General.
   
   
2. Tap Transfer or Reset iPhone.
   
   
3. Tap Reset.
   
   
4. Tap Reset Network Settings.
   
   
5. Enter your password and tap Reset Network Settings to confirm.
   
   
    

By now, your iCloud photo link should be working. Be sure to check back with iPhone Life whenever you have a problem with Apple hardware or software!