Mac Users Will Have to Wait for Messages in iCloud

[Update 6/1/18: macOS 10.13.5 has been released.]

Like AirPlay 2, the long overdue Messages in iCloud feature finally launched in iOS 11.4 this week. Unfortunately, Mac users might need to wait a little bit longer to use it.

iOS 11.4 was officially rolled out to the public earlier this week, adding Messages in iCloud support for iPhones, iPads and iPod Touch devices. But Messages in iCloud is also on the docket for macOS 10.13.5. But, weirdly enough, that update has yet to be released.

In the past, Apple has usually released its various software updates on the same day. Oftentimes, iOS and macOS update will launch pretty much simultaneously. But, nearly three days after iOS 11.4 was rolled out, macOS 10.13.5 remains elusive.

The current latest version of macOS is 10.13.4, which was released in April. macOS 10.13.5 currently has five beta builds, and it seemingly hasn’t exited the testing stage yet.

Interestingly, GadgetHacks spotted a curious hiccup with Apple’s own Messages in iCloud page.

Originally, the page said users can access the new feature by updating their iOS or macOS devices. A day later, that same support document was edited to remove all references to macOS.

Further confusing things is the fact that Apple has already seeded the first developer beta for macOS 10.13.6. Yes, that means there are currently two versions of macOS in the beta testing phase.

How to Enable Messages in iCloud on macOS

All of this points toward macOS 10.13.5 not being ready. It isn’t clear why this might be. But, unfortunately, it also means that Mac owners won’t be able to use Messages in iCloud on their computers until 10.13.5 is officially released.

The exception is downloading the developer or public beta of 10.13.5, which we don’t recommend doing on your daily driver. A fifth beta build is probably pretty stable, but bugs can still happen.

In the meantime, you’ll just have to wait until macOS 10.13.5 comes out. But, again, we don’t really have a solid indication when that might be.

Image via GadgetHacks

1. If you do have the beta installed, or you’re reading this after 10.13.5 is released, you can turn on Messages in iCloud in Messages.
2. Preferences.
3. Accounts. There, you should see a checkbox next to Enable Messages in iCloud.