This is how to use the new iOS 11 Files app
With Apple's iOS 11 update comes the new and handy Files app. The improvement in file organization, dragging, and dropping is best put to use on the iPad, which we've demonstrated below. The Files app, however, appears on other Apple devices like the iPhone. Here's how it works:
1. Once the Files app is opened, you can see the different file locations beneath "Browse" in the left column. Here, iCloud Drive has been selected, and inside this location, we'll open up the documents folder.
2. Once a file like the documents folder has been opened, the contents inside can be easily moved around and organized. To select a file, just tap down on the selected file and hold it down. The file image will slightly enlarge, and then you have control over dragging and dropping it to different file folders or locations. Once your file is hovering over the destination folder, lift your finger and the file will drop.
3. The Files app also allows you to drag and drop many files at once. Once a file has been selected, use your other hand to tap on the other files that you'd like to move, and they will automatically be "piled" on the original file, allowing them to all be moved around together.
4. Each individual file — document, photo, video, etc. — can be given a colored tag, for whatever organization strategy you're using. Drag the file to the left "Tags" bar, and drop the selected file (or files) onto the desired color. The files will stay in their original location, but also be collected in the red tags folder, so you can click on that tag and see all the red-tagged contents inside.
5. The Files app on the iPhone works a little differently, because its functions are adjusted for a smaller screen. To select a file, tap down on it and then life your finger. This will reveal the action bar above, allowing you to copy, move, and tag files.
That's it. Now you can finally keep track of all the documents, photos, videos, and other media you have stored on your iPhone or iPad. This should vastly improve the way you organize files on your device. Enjoy!
Topics Apple Apps & Software iOS iPad iPhone Innovations
Mark was the science editor at Mashable. After working as a ranger with the National Park Service, he started a reporting career after seeing the extraordinary value in educating people about the happenings on Earth, and beyond.
He's descended 2,500 feet into the ocean depths in search of the sixgill shark, ventured into the halls of top R&D laboratories, and interviewed some of the most fascinating scientists in the world.
