# iPhone Notes Missing After iOS 18 Update? Here’s How to Resolve It
For those who depend on the Notes app on their Apple devices, the sudden prospect of losing access to notes can be quite alarming. Unfortunately, this situation has unfolded for some iPhone users following the iOS 18 update. A bug has been observed where notes within the Notes app appear to vanish, leaving individuals understandably anxious. The reassuring news is that the notes are not actually gone, and a straightforward solution exists for their recovery.
## The iOS 18 Notes Issue
This problem seems to arise after users accept new iCloud terms of service on their iPhones. Subsequently, the Notes app temporarily loses its connection to iCloud, where the majority of users keep their notes. Consequently, the app appears empty, as if all notes have been erased.
This issue has been reported by users with various versions of iOS 18, including the most recent iOS 18.2 beta. Benjamin Mayo of *9to5Mac* was among the first to highlight this problem after facing it on his iPhone. He observed that his notes disappeared shortly after accepting the new iCloud terms, though he did not initially link the two occurrences.
While this issue is prevalent, not all users have been affected. For example, some who have been using the iOS 18 betas since their inception have not encountered this problem. Nevertheless, for those impacted, the situation can be distressing.
## The Easy Solution
Fortunately, restoring your notes is quite simple. The issue originates from the Notes app’s temporary disconnection from iCloud, so the resolution involves reactivating iCloud syncing for Notes. Here’s how to do it:
### Steps to Resolve the iOS 18 Notes Issue:
1. **Open the Settings App**: Begin by accessing the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. **Tap on Your Name**: At the top of the Settings menu, tap your name to reach your Apple ID settings.
3. **Select iCloud**: In the Apple ID settings, choose the iCloud option.
4. **Choose Notes**: Scroll down and select the Notes option.
5. **Activate Syncing**: Wait for the “Sync this iPhone” toggle to appear and ensure it is turned on.
After completing these steps, wait a few moments and then open the Notes app again. Your notes should reappear. If they do not return right away, try toggling the sync option off and back on again, or wait a little longer to allow for proper reconnection.
## What Causes This?
The bug seems to be linked to an iCloud error that stems from accepting new terms of service. When the Notes app disconnects from iCloud, it temporarily loses access to the stored notes, creating the impression that they have been deleted. However, the notes remain securely stored in iCloud, and re-establishing syncing brings them back.
Apple has yet to officially acknowledge this bug, but it is likely that a future iOS 18 update will include a fix. In the meantime, users can depend on the straightforward steps described above to restore their notes.
## In Summary
If you’ve encountered missing notes after updating to iOS 18, there’s no need to worry. The issue is probably due to a temporary disconnection from iCloud, and your notes are still intact. By re-enabling iCloud syncing for Notes, you can recover your information in just a few minutes. Although this bug can be irritating, it’s comforting to know that there’s a simple solution. Keep an eye out for forthcoming iOS updates, as Apple is expected to tackle this matter soon.
In the interim, even if you haven’t faced this bug, it’s wise to routinely back up your iPhone to ensure the safety and security of your data, including your notes.
