1. Users Own Their Data — Not the Platform
Personal data such as contacts, calendars, notes, photos, and app data belongs to the user.
Users should be free to decide where their data is stored and synchronized, independent of the device they use.
2. iCloud Only Works Within Apple’s Ecosystem
iCloud is tightly limited to Apple devices.
If a user owns an iPhone and a non-Apple device — such as an Android tablet, Windows PC, or Linux machine — full data synchronization is not possible.
Modern users often mix devices, and cloud services should support that reality.
3. Real Choice Requires System-Level Support
Allowing third-party apps is not enough.
Without system-level integration, alternative cloud providers cannot match the reliability, efficiency, or seamless experience of the built-in solution.
4. Lock-In Reduces Innovation
Developers are discouraged from building better sync technologies when they cannot integrate properly with the operating system.
Open sync APIs would encourage innovation, competition, and new cloud services.
5. Competition Improves Privacy and Security
When users can choose between cloud providers:
- Providers compete on privacy protections
- Security practices improve
- Users can select services that match their needs and risk models
A single mandatory provider removes these incentives.
6. Enterprises and Professionals Need Flexibility
Many users work in environments with:
- Compliance requirements
- Existing cloud infrastructure
- Data residency rules
Forcing a single cloud provider creates friction and limits adoption in professional settings.
7. Other Platforms Allow Meaningful Alternatives
Android, Windows, and Linux promote their own cloud services while still allowing replacement or integration with alternatives.
Apple is unique in preventing users from selecting a different system-level sync provider.
8. Interoperability Is Becoming a Legal Expectation
Regulations such as the EU Digital Markets Act emphasize:
- User choice
- Fair competition
- Interoperability between services
Supporting alternative cloud providers aligns with these principles.
9. Trust Comes From Control, Not Lock-In
User trust is built when people choose a service because it’s good — not because it’s unavoidable.
Allowing cloud choice would demonstrate confidence in iCloud rather than dependence on lock-in.
10. Choice and Security Can Co-Exist
Apple can maintain its strong security model while allowing:
- Certified or approved providers
- Explicit user consent
- Strong encryption requirements
- Sandboxed access
Security and user choice are not mutually exclusive.