pay apple again to be able to manage your own files, lol..
https://www.apple.com/icloud/#:~:text=Is%20there%20a%20free%....
Which mobile platform provides unlimited/better for no cost?
For one, Android. I use Syncthing; my phone reports that I've synced 27gb of local state to my PC and laptop without me paying a dime.
Caveat being, you have to use a mobile platform that doesn't prevent third-parties from integrating with the OS. iCloud's quality is almost besides the point when Apple uses their software control to ensure a feature-complete alternative can't exist.
Nextcloud also works on iOS, integrates with the Files app and was always able to sync photos right after I took them.
Could you explain how it is free?
I mean, could it be possible that the actual cost of the 'free' icloud is built into the prices/ cost of the device(s) you originally purchased (so that you can store your stuff in the icloud)?