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How do iCloud sync and Keep Downloaded work?
When a library is in iCloud Drive, iCloud moves the files and Hive reads them. Turning on Keep Downloaded for the library folder keeps every file on the device, which makes Hive faster and stops files from going missing when storage runs low.
Turn on Keep Downloaded
By default, iCloud may remove the original of a file from a device to save space and fetch it again when needed. For a library you work in, that means waiting, and sometimes a video that won't play. Keep Downloaded tells iCloud to leave the files on the device.
- Open the Files app and find your library folder in iCloud Drive.
- Touch and hold the folder.
- Choose Keep Downloaded.
What the loading stages mean
The first time you open a library from iCloud, Hive shows progress in stages. A pause between stages is normal.
- Scanning checks what's in the library and builds a list of files to fetch.
- Downloading metadata fetches the information Hive needs to show the library, such as folders and tags.
- Downloading originals fetches the full files.
- Refreshing brings the library view up to date once downloads finish.
During the first load
Keep Hive open and in front until the first load finishes. When an app is in the background, the system gives it less time, and the load takes longer. The time estimate Hive shows is a guide. The real time depends on the size of the library and the speed of your connection.
Hive sometimes offers a Skip button. Use it only if you're sure the files are already on the device. If you aren't sure, let the download finish.
If sync seems stuck
iCloud often looks paused when it's working. Before changing anything, try these.
- Confirm Keep Downloaded is on for the library folder.
- Keep Hive in front and leave the device on a good connection for a while.
- Check that the device has free space. When storage is low, the system removes downloaded originals.
- If the library still shows Downloading or Wait after you're inside it, iCloud is finishing in the background. It completes on its own.
If a file or video won't open
This nearly always means the original isn't on the device at the moment. Turn on Keep Downloaded, wait for the file to download again, and free some space if storage is low.
Questions
Do I need Pro to keep a library in iCloud Drive?
Syncing one library across iPhone, iPad, and Mac is part of Pro.
How long does the first sync take?
It depends on the library's size and your connection. A large library can take a while, and it's quicker with Hive in front.
After moving a library, Hive can't read it. What now?
Choose the folder again in its new location, check that its structure is intact, and if it's in iCloud, make sure the files have downloaded.