Sync Google Calendar with iCloud Calendar: 3 Easy Ways That Work

TL;DR

Struggling to keep your Google and iCloud calendars in sync? If you want to sync Google Calendar with iCloud Calendar: 3 easy ways can help you stay organized and avoid double-booking. Here are your options:

1. Subscribe via URL (View-Only): See Google events on Apple devices, but edits and updates can lag.
2. Add Google Account to iOS: View both calendars side-by-side on your iPhone, but no true data sync.
3. True Two-Way Sync (Caltsu): Real-time, automated syncing between Google and iCloud calendars.

---

Managing multiple calendars across Apple and Google can be a nightmare for your schedule. Because these tech giants keep their ecosystems separate, syncing events isn’t straightforward. If you’re tired of missing meetings or double-booking, it’s time to sync Google Calendar with iCloud Calendar: 3 easy ways can solve your problem—ranging from free DIY options to a seamless automated solution.

Why Sync Google Calendar with iCloud Calendar?

Apple and Google calendars don’t natively sync because they use different systems and keep their data separate. When you add a Google Calendar to your iPhone, it’s only visible in the Apple Calendar app—it doesn’t actually merge with your iCloud data. That means events on one calendar won’t show as busy on the other, leading to scheduling conflicts.

To truly sync Google Calendar with iCloud Calendar, you need a bridge that connects both platforms. Let’s explore your three best options.

Method 1: Sync Google Calendar with iCloud Calendar via Subscription (View Only)

This classic workaround lets you view Google events in your Apple Calendar on Mac or iOS devices.

The Catch: It’s read-only. You can’t edit Google events from Apple Calendar, and updates may take up to 24 hours to appear.

How to Get Your Google Calendar URL

• Open Google Calendar on your computer.
• Hover over the calendar you want to share, click the three dots.
• Select Settings and sharing.
• Scroll to Integrate calendar.
• Find Secret address in iCal format and copy the URL.

Add the Subscription to iCloud Calendar

• Open the Calendar app on your Mac.
• Click File > New Calendar Subscription.
• Paste the copied URL.
• Click Subscribe.
• Rename and color the calendar as needed.
• Set "Auto-refresh" to the shortest interval allowed.
• Click OK.

Limitations of Calendar Subscriptions

• View-only: No editing from Apple Calendar.
• Delayed updates (up to 24 hours).
• Other apps won’t see you as busy for Google events.

If you need to prevent calendar conflicts, this method is limited.

Method 2: Sync Google Calendar with iCloud Calendar on iOS Devices

This is the most common approach for iPhone users. It displays both calendars in the iOS Calendar app, but doesn’t merge them in the cloud.

Steps:

• Open Settings on your iPhone or iPad.
• Tap Calendar > Accounts > Add Account > Google.
• Sign in and enable Calendars.
• In the Calendar app, ensure your Google account is checked.

The Downside

• Only a visual overlay—no true sync between Google and iCloud.
• Others can’t see your Google events when checking your iCloud availability.

Method 3: True Two-Way Sync Google Calendar with iCloud Calendar Using Caltsu

For real syncing, where events are mirrored between Google and iCloud in real-time, use a dedicated tool like Caltsu.

Why Caltsu?

• Instantly syncs events both ways.
• Prevents double-booking by blocking busy slots.
• Lets you choose privacy settings for each sync.

How to Set Up Caltsu for Google-iCloud Sync

1. Create a Caltsu account (Start your free trial).
2. Connect your Google and iCloud calendars.
3. Create a Sync Connection:
   • Choose your Source (Google or iCloud).
   • Choose your Destination (iCloud or Google).
4. Set privacy options:
   • Busy only (shows as "Busy" on destination calendar).
   • Full details (syncs event titles, locations, and descriptions).
5. Repeat for two-way sync (set up reverse sync connection).

Benefits Over Other Methods

• Real-time updates—no lag.
• Conflict prevention—all platforms see your true availability.
• Privacy control—choose what information is shared.

For more, see our guide to fixing double-booked meetings.

Which Sync Method Is Right for You?

Use Method 1 (Subscription) if:

• You rarely update your schedule.
• Delayed updates are acceptable.
• You don’t need others to see your busy times.

Use Method 2 (iOS Settings) if:

• You only check calendars on your iPhone.
• You don’t use scheduling tools.
• You don’t need shared availability.

Use Method 3 (Caltsu) if:

• You manage work and personal calendars.
• You use scheduling links (like Calendly).
• You want privacy and real-time sync.
• You need a set-and-forget solution.

Wrapping Up: Sync Google Calendar with iCloud Calendar the Easy Way

Syncing Google Calendar with iCloud Calendar doesn’t have to be a hassle. Whether you choose a free workaround or an automated solution, you can finally keep your schedules in sync and avoid double-booking.

Ready to simplify your calendar life? Start your free trial with Caltsu today and sync Google Calendar with iCloud Calendar in minutes!