Quick answer: For your own iPad on the same Apple Account, iCloud Photos syncs photos and videos automatically if you have the storage. For a nearby iPad, AirDrop is quickest. For anyone else's iPad, or when iCloud is full, upload the file at Share Large Video Files (up to 20 GB per transfer) and send the link; it downloads to Files on the iPad in original quality.
Built-in options, and their limits
iCloud Photos puts the same library on every device signed in to your Apple Account, but only up to your iCloud storage (5 GB free). With Optimise Storage on, the iPad keeps smaller versions and downloads originals when you open them.
AirDrop sends to a nearby iPad in full quality. Shared Albums reduce the resolution of photos and videos, so they are not a way to share originals.
iCloud Drive shares files and folders from the Files app, again within your iCloud storage.
Send any size from iPhone to iPad with a link
- On the iPhone, open Share Large Video Files in Safari and add the videos or files.
- Keep the screen on until the upload finishes, then copy the link.
- Send it by Messages or email to the iPad, or show the QR code and scan it with the iPad's camera.
- On the iPad, tap Download in Safari. The file goes to Files > Downloads.
- To add a video to the iPad's Photos, open it in Files, tap Share and choose Save Video.
Things that trip people up
- If the iPad is on your Apple Account, a video you save from the link also syncs back to iCloud Photos and uses storage twice as a duplicate. Delete one copy.
- Safari's photo picker can hand over a converted copy. Save the original to Files first and choose Browse for an exact original.
- An iPad on Wi-Fi only cannot download away from Wi-Fi. Download before you travel.
Same Apple Account or a different one?
| Situation | Best route |
|---|---|
| Your iPad, iCloud storage to spare | iCloud Photos (automatic) |
| Your iPad, iCloud full | AirDrop nearby, or a link |
| Someone else's iPad, same room | AirDrop |
| Someone else's iPad, elsewhere | Download link |
| Many iPads (a class or a team) | One link, or a QR code on the board |
Frequently asked questions
Why don't my iPhone videos show up on my iPad?
iCloud Photos must be on for both, on the same Apple Account, and your iCloud storage must have room. Large videos also take time to upload from the iPhone first.
Do Shared Albums keep full quality?
No. Apple reduces photos and videos in Shared Albums. Use AirDrop or a download link for originals.
Can I send to a child's or partner's iPad?
Yes. AirDrop works nearby; a link works from anywhere and does not need their Apple Account.
Where does the downloaded video go on the iPad?
Into the Files app under Downloads. Save it to Photos from the Share button if you want it in the library.
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