All iPads Files app as main storage

[iRaynor SK]

Hello,

Since iPadOS got ability to create local folders in “On My iPad” section of Files app, and also support for SMB protocol, and also external storage support, I’m considering to use Files app as my main manager.

First, when I create folder in “On My iPad” section, it’s shown alongside other folders from other Files app-enabled apps (I have 16 app folders). In short - my custom folder is not always at the top. I tried trick with tags - not very useful.

Is there any extremely simple app which just add icon into Files app sidebar? Something like app called “Local Storage” from App Store. My issue is that mentioned app adds icon into “On My iPad” folder. I want it on sidebar. In short - I just install app and nothing more - all managed within Files app.

I know there are apps like FE File Explorer or Documents by Readdle, but I’m finding extremely simple app just to store files. An app without settings, without connection to clouds, without nothing. Just storage.

 

[Shirasaki]

I am curious why you want a simple app that basically function the same as native files app, as files app is already simple enough imo. For your custom folder always on top thing, if you sort your folder in name and add “a” or “1” - something that can let iOS sort your custom folder at the top, you might be able to always find your custom folder no matter what. Or, you can add a tag with name “A”, and sort your folder with tags. That tag will always come first.

As of now, no app can release their updates based on iOS 13, just FYI.

 

[iRaynor SK]

Hello,

It’s about Document Storage provider from Files app, it’s not iOS 13 specific

As for “always on top folder”, it looks like I will use Favorites in sidebar.

 

[canesalato]

I simply created a folder named "canesalato" (well, my real name) and added that to my favorites. This way, it works just like with a Mac.
PS: it would be so nice to have Time Machine.

 

[jeyf]

If you want a file on top re name it like “!myFile”

I use the app “FileExplorer”.
Sometimes I like to have a pdf document in my iPhone as a quick reference. I can get on my home NAS box and move the pdf into my iPhone.

Or

I put the file on dropBox /public. I pull up the drop box app and it associates the /public/pdf with the iPhone Books app auto magic.

Don’t know if any of this helps?
iPhone iPad file management is draconian.

 

[AutomaticApple]

I simple created a folder named "canesalato" (well, my real name) and added that to my favorites. This way, it works just like with a Mac.
PS: it would be so nice to have Time Machine.

I also did this. Very convenient!

 

[Ludatyk]

I have iPadOS installed on my iPP, and I like using Files app.. but it's still not quite there yet for me. I like the direction it is going, but it's still not fully baked yet... Over time, I'm sure it will get better.

But I've been using GoodReader for awhile now, and it's something that's been solid for me. I like the interface and how much option it provides. I mostly use that as my File Management app... and it works well.

 

[horseflesh]

I honestly don't understand some aspects of Files at all.

For example, I use the "Documents by Readdle" app for reading PDFs, like a lot of us probably do...

In Files, there are TWO folders for this app, one under "Locations" and one under "Files On My iPad."

Locations/Documents shows the files that I see inside Documents' own file manager.

Files On My iPad/Documents by Readdle is apparently liked to "iTunes File Sharing?"

What is the difference between these folders? Why are only some apps like this?

Most importantly, why do people say this is easier than a desktop-style system of folders?

 

[Lyn2012]

In my opinion it’s not easier than using the usual folder system. Choosing exactly where and how to store my documents is important to me as I find most so-called easy solutions very counter intuitive. If I have multiple documents for a particular project - maybe some text, some photos, some graphic design & pdfs - then I want them stored in a folder altogether, not dotted around depending on the app used to create them.

 

[jeyf]

... I want them stored in a folder altogether, not dotted around depending on the app used to create them.

Good you want your work files in one area. Consider something like drop box and their iPhone app.
or
If you have a NAS box on your home network consider something like FileExplorer.

Limits of iPhone technology.