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How to Access the Download Manager in Safari for iOS

With iOS 13, Apple has brought a similar feature to the mobile version of its Safari browser in the form of the Download Manager. Now, when you choose to download a file, such as an image or document, a little download icon is displayed in the top right corner of the screen.

You can tap the icon to check the status of your downloads, and tapping the magnifying glass next to a file will open its folder location, whether that's on your device or in the cloud.

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Where Do I Find My Downloads on My iPhone?

What to know.

• When downloading files from Safari, a Downloads button will appear, which shows any files you’ve downloaded in the past day.
• Open the Settings app > Safari > Downloads to choose whether your downloads are stored on your iPhone or in iCloud.
• To find all of your downloaded files, open the Files app > On My iPhone or iCloud Drive > Downloads.

Like any web browser, you can use Safari to download files to your iPhone. But where do those downloads go after you save them? In this article, we’ll go over how exactly to find out where your downloaded files are located.

How to Get to Downloads on iPhone

How to find safari downloads on iphone, how to get to downloads using the files app.

Finding your downloaded files on iPhone can be a bit challenging since the Downloads button in Safari only appears when downloading files. For more ways to master Safari, like how to block or allow pop-ups , be sure to sign up for our Tip of the Day newsletter. Now, here’s how you can see the files that you downloaded in the last day.

By default, Safari is set up so that this list will be cleared out after one day. This does not remove the downloaded file from your phone, but it will remove the downloads list from Safari. If you haven’t downloaded anything else in the last day, you likely won’t see it here. To access all of your downloads, you’ll need to head over to the Files app.

If you haven’t downloaded anything recently or if you use another web browser, you can access your downloads in the Files app. But first, you need to check your Safari settings to find out if your Downloads folder is stored on your iPhone or in iCloud:

Regardless of where your downloaded files are stored, you will be able to access them from the Files app.

Now that you know where your Downloads folder is stored, let’s move over to the Files app to see how to get to Downloads on iPhone:

Note : If you use another web browser, you will see a folder for it in the On My iPhone folder (e.g. you will see a Firefox folder or a Chrome folder if you use those browsers). Your downloads from those browsers will be stored there.

That’s how to find your downloaded files on your iPhone! In the future, the quickest way to access your downloads is by going to the Files app. You can also save items from other apps to your Files app. Next, find out how to send large files on iPhone or iPad .

Author Details

Rhett Intriago

Rhett Intriago is a Feature Writer at iPhone Life, offering his expertise in all things iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods. He enjoys writing on topics related to maintaining privacy in a digital world, as well as iPhone security. He’s been a tech enthusiast all his life, with experiences ranging from jailbreaking his iPhone to building his own gaming PC.

Despite his disdain for the beach, Rhett is based in Florida. In his free time, he enjoys playing the latest games, spoiling his cats, or discovering new places with his wife, Kyla.

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While surfing the web or accessing our email, we tend to download files on our iPhone and iPad. Initially, it all looks good. Eventually, with the files piling one after another, you start feeling the need to manage Safari downloads.

But wait… don’t rush to a third-party download manager. Managing your download, that too in a separate file manager app, is a tricky and daunting business. So, here’s good news, with iOS 13 and the changes made to Safari, you can manage your chaos (or should I say Downloads?) easily!

Here are some quick ways to manage your Safari downloads on your iPhone and iPad effortlessly. Let’s begin!

How to download files in Safari on iPhone

• Pause/Resume/Cancel your downloads in Safari 

Change default Safari downloads location on iPhone

Delete downloaded files in safari, auto-delete safari downloads on your iphone.

• Locate the file/item you want to download and tap it.
• Confirm download when prompted through the popup window.

Note : There’s also an alternate way to access your downloads. You can go to the Files application and select Downloads .

How to manage your downloads in Safari on the iPhone

Pause/resume/cancel your downloads in safari.

• Tap the download icon at the top right corner of Safari.
• Tap the ‘X’ symbol to pause or cancel your download.

Note : You can directly reach the downloaded location of a file by tapping the ‘ Search ‘ icon next to the file name.

• In the Settings app, tap Safari and select Downloads .

Note : iCloud Drive will let your downloads be available across all connected devices, whereas the iPhone/iPad option will only save the file to the respective device.

However, if you want to delete the file permanently, there are two ways to do it.

• Tap the arrow icon and swipe left the file you want to delete.

You can also choose to auto-delete files.

• Open the Settings app and tap Safari .

• Here, you have three options : After one day, Upon Successful Download, or Manually.

I hope the steps were quick, easy, and helpful. In case you have any other trouble, feel free to connect with me in the comments below. For further help related to the Safari browser, consider reading Dhvanesh’s guide on How to troubleshoot common Safari problems .

Read more: 

• How to install Safari extensions on Mac in just 4 easy steps
• Safari Not Opening t.co Short Links from Twitter? Quick Fixes
• Restore Deleted Safari Bookmarks on​ Mac
• How to disable Safari tab previews on Mac (Quick guide)

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🗣️ Our site is supported by our readers like you. When you purchase through our links, we earn a small commission. Read Disclaimer .

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How to access downloaded files on iPhone and iPad

Did you download a file and can’t figure out where it is? In this tutorial, we will show you where those downloaded files are saved in your iPhone or iPad’s local storage.

If you download files to your device from the internet, then you’re used to the routine. You may have even changed your download location to a specific spot. But if you’ve never downloaded a file on iOS, then you’re probably wondering where those files went!

Also see: How to download videos from Safari on iPhone and iPad

Access your downloads in Safari

If you use Safari as your browser of choice on iOS, then that’s the easiest spot to grab your downloads.

To open the Downloads Manager , tap the downloads arrow button in Safari’s toolbar and select Downloads . You can then select your file to open it or tap the magnifying glass to see it in its folder.

If you don’t see the downloaded files above, Safari may have already removed your downloads. Head over to iPhone Settings > Safari > Downloads  > Remove Download List Items  to see when your web browser removes the download list items. It can be set to After one day, Upon successful download, or Manually.

Access your downloads in the Files app

Yay default, your downloads on iPhone and iPad go in a folder named Downloads inside the Files app. So, if you can’t use Safari to see your downloads, just open the Files app , tap Browse , go to iCloud Drive , and select the Downloads folder.

To pick a different location, see our tutorial on changing where the downloaded Safari items are saved in iOS . And if you’re interested, take a look at how to change the Safari download spot on Mac , too.

Check out next: 11 tips to customize and personalize Safari on iPhone and iPad

Technical How-tos, Tips, and Tricks

How to easily access and manage safari downloads on iphone.

January 10, 2024 Matt Mills How to 0

Downloading files from Safari on your iPhone can be a useful feature, whether it’s a document, image, or other content. However, locating and managing these downloads may not always be straightforward.

In this guide, we’ll show you two different methods to view Safari downloads on your iPhone: directly from the browser and using the Files app.

Method 1: Viewing Safari Downloads from the Browser

• Access a Webpage: Start by opening the Safari browser on your iPhone and visiting a webpage from which you intend to download content.
• Download Content: Navigate to a page or file that you wish to download. When you tap on a downloadable item, a dialog box will appear, asking if you want to download the content. Confirm the download.
• Contextual Menu: Once the download starts, look for the contextual menu, which appears in the search bar. It’s represented by an icon that resembles two letter ‘A’s.
• Access Downloads: Tap on the contextual menu icon, and a drop-down bar will appear with various options. Among these options, you’ll find “Downloads.” Select it to view all the files you’ve downloaded during the current browsing session.
• Open Downloaded File: From the list of downloads, you can tap on a file to open it directly.

Method 2: Accessing Safari Downloads with the Files App

• Open Files App: Locate the Files app on your iPhone. It’s typically found on your home screen or in the App Library.
• Navigate to Explore: Once in the Files app, tap on “Explore” at the bottom of the screen.
• Access Download Location: The location of your Safari downloads depends on your settings. If you’ve configured Safari to save downloads in iCloud, follow this path: Files > Explore > Locations > iCloud Drive > Downloads. If your downloads are stored locally on your iPhone, follow this route instead: Files > Explore > Locations > On My iPhone > Downloads.

By following these steps, you can easily access and manage your Safari downloads on your iPhone. Whether you prefer to view downloads directly from the browser or through the Files app, you’ll have full control over your downloaded files. Enjoy the convenience of quickly finding and accessing your downloaded content whenever you need it.

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How To See Downloads On Safari IPhone

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Introduction

When it comes to browsing the web on your iPhone, Safari is the go-to browser for millions of users worldwide. Its sleek interface, seamless integration with Apple devices, and robust features make it a top choice for accessing the internet on the go. However, one common query that often arises among Safari users is how to view and manage downloads on their iPhones. Whether it's a PDF, a music file, or a document, knowing how to access and handle downloaded files is essential for a smooth browsing experience.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of checking, managing, and troubleshooting downloads on Safari for iPhone. From uncovering the location of downloaded files to organizing and troubleshooting potential issues, we'll navigate through the various aspects of handling downloads on Safari. By the end of this article, you'll be equipped with the knowledge and techniques to effortlessly navigate your downloaded content, ensuring a seamless browsing experience on your iPhone. So, let's embark on this journey to unravel the mysteries of Safari downloads and empower ourselves with the tools to make the most of our browsing experience.

Checking Downloads on Safari iPhone

When you download files using Safari on your iPhone, it's natural to wonder where these files end up. Unlike on a computer, where downloaded files are typically saved to a designated folder, the process on an iPhone may not be as apparent. However, fear not, as checking your downloads on Safari for iPhone is a straightforward process.

Accessing the Downloads Tab : To check your downloads on Safari for iPhone, start by tapping the Safari icon on your home screen. Once the browser opens, look for the "Downloads" icon, which resembles a downward arrow located in the top right corner of the screen. Tapping this icon will reveal your recent downloads, allowing you to view and access the downloaded files.

Viewing Downloaded Files : Upon tapping the "Downloads" icon, a list of your recent downloads will appear. This list includes various file types such as documents, images, and media files. You can tap on any of these files to open and view them directly within Safari.

Accessing Downloaded Content : If you wish to access your downloaded content outside of Safari, you can do so by navigating to the "Files" app on your iPhone. Here, you will find a section labeled "Downloads," housing all the files you've downloaded through Safari. From here, you can manage, organize, and share your downloaded files with ease.

Utilizing the Search Function : In the event that you have numerous downloads and need to locate a specific file, Safari for iPhone offers a convenient search function. By tapping the search icon within the Downloads tab, you can quickly search for a specific file by name, making it effortless to find the exact content you're looking for.

By following these simple steps, you can effortlessly check your downloads on Safari for iPhone, ensuring that you have easy access to all your downloaded files. Whether it's a PDF, an image, or a music file, staying informed about your downloads is essential for a seamless browsing experience on your iPhone.

Managing Downloads on Safari iPhone

Once you've located and accessed your downloaded files on Safari for iPhone, the next step is to effectively manage and organize these files. Managing downloads on Safari for iPhone involves ensuring that your downloaded content is well-organized, easily accessible, and can be shared or utilized as needed. Here's how you can efficiently manage your downloads on Safari for iPhone:

Organizing Downloaded Files

Upon accessing the Downloads tab in Safari , you may find a collection of files ranging from documents and images to media files. To keep your downloaded content organized, consider creating folders within the "Files" app on your iPhone. This allows you to categorize your files based on type, relevance, or any other criteria that suits your preferences. By organizing your downloads into specific folders, you can streamline your browsing experience and quickly locate the content you need.

Sharing Downloaded Content

Safari for iPhone provides seamless integration with various apps, allowing you to easily share your downloaded content. Whether it's a document, an image, or a music file, you can share it directly from the Downloads tab in Safari. Simply tap on the file you wish to share, and select the sharing option to send it via email , messaging apps, or other platforms. This feature enables you to effortlessly distribute your downloaded content to colleagues, friends, or family members.

Deleting Unnecessary Downloads

Over time, your Downloads tab may accumulate a multitude of files, some of which may no longer be needed. To declutter your downloads and free up storage space on your iPhone, consider deleting unnecessary files. Safari for iPhone allows you to easily delete individual downloads by swiping left on the file and tapping the delete option. Alternatively, you can select multiple files and delete them in bulk, ensuring that your Downloads tab remains organized and free of redundant content.

Utilizing Cloud Storage

For users who prefer to store their downloaded content securely and access it across multiple devices, leveraging cloud storage services is a viable option. Services such as iCloud, Google Drive, or Dropbox seamlessly integrate with Safari for iPhone, allowing you to upload your downloaded files to the cloud. This not only frees up space on your device but also provides the flexibility to access your content from any device with an internet connection.

By effectively managing your downloads on Safari for iPhone, you can optimize your browsing experience and ensure that your downloaded content remains organized and easily accessible. Whether it's organizing files into folders, sharing content with others, or utilizing cloud storage, these management techniques empower you to make the most of your downloaded content on Safari for iPhone.

Troubleshooting Downloads on Safari iPhone

Encountering issues with downloads on Safari for iPhone can be frustrating, especially when you're eager to access important files or media content. However, with a few troubleshooting techniques, you can effectively address common download-related challenges, ensuring a seamless browsing experience on your iPhone.

Clearing Cache and Cookies

One prevalent issue that may impede the download process on Safari for iPhone is a cluttered cache and an abundance of cookies. These accumulated data can hinder the browser's performance and affect the download functionality. To address this, navigate to the Settings app on your iPhone, select Safari, and tap on "Clear History and Website Data." This action clears the cache and cookies, potentially resolving download-related issues.

Checking Internet Connection

A stable internet connection is crucial for successful downloads. If you encounter difficulties downloading files on Safari for iPhone, ensure that your device is connected to a reliable Wi-Fi network or has a strong cellular signal. Additionally, consider restarting your router or toggling the airplane mode on and off to refresh the connection, potentially resolving any network-related issues.

Updating Safari and iOS

Outdated software can lead to compatibility issues and hinder the download functionality of Safari for iPhone. To mitigate this, ensure that both Safari and your iOS are updated to the latest versions. Navigate to the App Store and the Settings app to check for available updates, and install them if necessary. Keeping your browser and operating system up to date can resolve potential bugs and enhance the overall performance of Safari for iPhone.

Resetting Safari Settings

In some instances, resetting Safari settings can address download-related issues. To do this, navigate to the Settings app, select Safari, and tap on "Clear History and Website Data." Additionally, you can reset Safari settings by tapping on "Advanced" and selecting "Website Data," followed by "Remove All Website Data." These actions can help resolve any underlying issues within the browser, potentially improving the download functionality.

Contacting Apple Support

If you've exhausted troubleshooting options and continue to experience persistent download issues on Safari for iPhone, reaching out to Apple Support can provide valuable assistance. Apple's support team can offer personalized guidance and troubleshooting steps tailored to your specific concerns, ensuring that any underlying issues are effectively addressed.

By implementing these troubleshooting techniques, you can navigate and resolve download-related challenges on Safari for iPhone, ensuring a seamless browsing experience and effortless access to your downloaded content.

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How to use Files in iOS 14 to manage Safari downloads, local device storage, and external drives

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The Files app has grown into a full-fledged document and file management app with the latest iOS releases, iOS 14 and iPadOS 14. You can now easily copy files between multiple file services, download files locally, and even connect up removable storage to copy files to and from.

In this article, we’ll delve into how to manage internet downloads from Safari, configure the local location in the Files app, and copy or move files to and from removable storage from local storage.

SEE: Software as a Service (SaaS): A cheat sheet (free PDF) (TechRepublic)

How to manage your local storage

iOS 14 and iPadOS 14 allow you to easily manage local storage. Local storage is a place where files can be stored locally on the SSD or device without storing it on a file sharing service or iCloud Drive.

Before you can begin storing files locally, you first need to enable the local storage inside of the Files app. To do this, perform these steps:

• Open the Files app on your iOS device.
• Select the “…” button in the sidebar on iPadOS, or in the root of the Browse tab on iOS.
• Select Edit / Edit Sidebar.
• Enable the switch for On My iPhone/iPad ( Figure A ).

Once you’ve done this, a new location will be added to the sidebar called On My iPhone/iPad. Tapping on this location will present you with the contents of the local file system. Folders for apps that have files stored locally will appear. In this location, you can create a new folder by tapping the Folder+ at the top of the screen.

You can easily copy files to this location from iCloud Drive or another service by tapping and dragging from the other service into this local location. The files added here will be stored on the device and if you go offline, they will still be available for manipulation without any need to rely on an internet connection.

This is a great place to store books, PDFs, or other documents that need to be frequently accessed when offline.

How to download files from Safari

Newer versions of Safari, including the one in iOS 13 and 14, can let you easily download files, such as zip files, PDFs, and more. To download a file in Safari, just tap on a download link on a website or tap and hold on a link and then tap Download Linked File ( Figure B ).

If you have an iCloud Drive account, by default, this will cause the files to be downloaded to a Downloads folder contained in your iCloud Drive account. However, you can change this setting so that the files are downloaded locally to your iPhone or iPad.

To change the download location in Safari, perform these steps:

• Open the Settings app.
• Navigate to Safari | Downloads.
• Select On My iPhone/iPad as the location to store downloaded files ( Figure C ).

Once a file is downloaded, it will be available in the Files app at the selected location.

Inside of this Downloads view, you can also choose to clean up and remove downloaded list items. This is not removing the file itself, but rather the list items that appear when tapping the Download button in Safari’s toolbar. We tend to keep this on Upon Successful Download.

How to use removable storage

To use removable storage, you’ll first need to plug in the drive to your iPad or iPhone. To do this, you’ll either need a USB-C or Lightning compatible thumb drive, or use an adapter.

If you’re using an iPad with USB-C, then you can easily use any USB-C hub adapter to connect an external drive; if you’re using an iPad with a Lightning port or iPhone, then get the Apple Camera Connection Kit , and you can easily plug in a thumb drive or external drive. You may have issues with some iPad or iPhone models if you’re connecting an external drive that requires power to operate. Some iPhone and iPad models will only supply limited power over the Lightning port.

Once you’ve plugged in the adapter, then your external drive, open the Files app, and you’ll notice that your drive will automatically appear under the Locations section in the sidebar on iPadOS or the Browse tab in iOS ( Figure D ).

This works just like any other file location and you can easily tap, hold, and drag files to and from this location to your iPad, or vice versa. You can also drag files from cloud storage locations like iCloud Drive onto the external storage location.

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5 Simple Ways to View Downloaded Files on Your iPhone

Last Updated: July 30, 2023 Fact Checked

Finding Downloaded Files

Finding downloaded photos, finding downloaded music, finding downloaded apps, viewing available storage.

This article was co-authored by wikiHow staff writer, Rain Kengly . Rain Kengly is a wikiHow Technology Writer. As a storytelling enthusiast with a penchant for technology, they hope to create long-lasting connections with readers from all around the globe. Rain graduated from San Francisco State University with a BA in Cinema. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 1,848,800 times. Learn more...

Are you trying to find files saved to your iPhone? Downloaded files—such as documents, PDFs, large images, and more—will usually go to the "Files" app on your iPhone unless you designated a different location. Additionally, saved pictures can usually be found in the Photos app, and music can be found in the Music app. Regardless of the file type, this wikiHow will show you how to find and access all files downloaded on your iPhone.

Things You Should Know

• Open the "Files" app and tap "Browse" → "On My iPhone" → "Downloads". Be sure to check the "iCloud" folder or other synced locations.
• Open the Photos app and tap "Recents". Photos saved via "Add to Photos" should appear at the bottom.
• To find downloaded music, open the Music app. Tap "Library" and then "Downloaded".

• When you tap the Save to Files option on a file, you're prompted to choose a saving location. Depending on your settings, you'll have the option to save to On My iPhone , iCloud Drive , and possibly other cloud drives. If you downloaded a file this way, you'll find it in the Files app.
• If you're looking for a photo you saved from the web, an app, or a message, you'll probably find it in the Photos app, not the Files app. This is because when you save a photo, you're prompted to Add to Photos . The only way your photo will not show up in the Photos app is if you selected the Save to Files option instead of adding it to your photos.

• Depending on how you downloaded the file you're looking for, you may see it right here in the main On My iPhone folder.
• You'll also find an iCloud Drive folder in this section and any other cloud drive services you've set up on your phone. If you tap one of these folders, you may find downloaded files there, too.

• When you save photos by tapping Save to Photos , you'll find them here.

• If you don't see your saved photos, they'll most likely be in the Files app in the Downloads folder.

• You can also download music from Spotify to listen offline.

• At the top, you should see a chart with your iPhone's usage based on category.

• For example, tapping Instagram (if you have it) displays the amount of space used by the app itself and the data it needs to save to your phone.
• Tapping Safari displays how much space is consumed by Documents & Data, your offline reading list, web history, and downloads.

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wikiHow Video: How to View Downloads on an iPhone

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• ↑ https://support.apple.com/guide/iphone/view-albums-playlists-and-more-iphbddea0e5e/ios

About This Article

1. Find saved photos in the Photos app. 2. Find downloaded music in the Music app under Library > Downloaded . 3. Find other files (and missing photos/audio) in the Files app. 4. View your available storage in the Settings app under General > iPhone Storage . Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How-To Geek

How to download files using safari on your iphone or ipad.

Need to quickly download a file on your iPhone or iPad? Here's how you can do this using Safari or a third-party app.

Quick Links

How to download files using safari, how to the change default download location, alternative for ios 12 users: documents 5 by readdle.

In your work or personal life, you'll sometimes need to download a file on your iPhone or iPad. Using the new feature introduced in iOS 13 and iPadOS 13, you can now do this directly in Safari. No third-party app needed!

Safari's download manager is a hidden new feature in the  iOS 13 and iPadOS 13 updates. If you're going about your day, browsing the web, you probably won't be aware of the feature. Instead, it comes up when you tap on a download link.

Go to a web page and find the link for a file you want to download. When you select it, you'll see a popup with the filename asking if you want to download it. Tap on the "Download" button.

The download will start, and you'll see a new "Downloads" button appear next to the address bar at the top of the browser. Tap on the button to reveal all current downloads. From here, you can monitor the progress of multiple downloads.

If you want to stop a download at any time, simply tap on the "X" button.

Once the download is finished, tap on the file to preview it. If you've downloaded a media file, image, or a PDF, you'll be able to see it in the preview window.

You can then share the file to any app. Tap on the "Share" button from the bottom-left corner.

Press the "Search" icon next to the filename in the Downloads section to open the file.

Once you open the file in the Files app, you can tap and hold on the file to reveal the menu.

From here, tap on "Delete" to delete the file.

By default, the downloaded files are saved to the Downloads folder in iCloud Drive in the Files app. This is a great option if you have a paid iCloud storage plan  because it allows your downloaded files to instantly sync across all your devices.

But if you're on the free, 5GB tier, you might not have space for storing large files.

Thankfully, you can change the default location to local storage. Open the "Settings" app and go to Safari > Downloads. If you can't find the browser on your phone, try using Apple's Spotlight search to locate it.

Here, switch the selection to "On My iPhone" or "On My iPad" depending on your device.

By default, Safari will pick the "Downloads" folder. You can change this by tapping on the "Other" option to select any folder from the local storage (or from a cloud storage option).

The new download manager in Safari is exclusive to iOS 13, iPadOS 13, and above. If you haven't updated to the latest OS (which you should), or if you're in a situation where you can't update, here's a workaround for you.

Try using the free Documents 5 app by Readdle . It's an all-in-one browser and file manager app.

Open the Documents 5 app and tap on the "Browser" button in the bottom-right corner to switch to the browser mode.

Now, navigate to the page with the download link and tap on it. From the next screen, select the folder where you want to download the file and tap on "Done."

The download will now start. You can tap on the "Downloads" tab to view all downloads.

Tap on the "Files" button from the bottom-left corner to switch to the file manager. From here, tap on the "Downloads" folder to see your downloaded file. You can tap on the download to preview it in the app. Tap on the "Menu" button to view options for opening the file in another app.

Safari's download manager is just one of the many new features in iOS 13. Take a look at our list of the  best iOS 13 features to learn more.

Related: The Best New Features in iOS 13, Available Now

Where Do Downloads Go On iPhone?

Michael Grothaus

Have you downloaded a file from the web on iPhone and can’t find it? Here’s where it is!

Wondering where do downloads go on iPhone? You’re not alone.

For years the iPhone’s web browser , Safari, was not capable of downloading files like Safari on the Mac is. When you download a file from a website in Safari on macOS , for example, it is automatically saved to your Mac’s “Downloads” folder.

But for years the iPhone had no such folder – and it was relatively hard to use Safari to download any kind of file – like a ZIP file or an installer. But with the advent of iOS 11, Apple changed all that.

iOS 11 introduced an overhauled Files app. This meant the iOS operating system essentially got a file system as the Mac has had since its inception. Of course, the Files app isn’t a true file system – you can’t find system files or applications in the Files app.

Instead the Files app is specifically for managing documents on your iPhone – whether they are PDFs, images, ZIP files, or anything else. So now in iOS when you save a file on your iPhone from an app like Pages, for example, it will be saved in a dedicated Pages folder in the Files app.

But what about files downloaded from Safari? After all, the Files app has no “Safari” folder. But not to worry – here’s where Safari downloads are on the iPhone.

Where Do Downloads Go On iPhone? Downloading Files In Safari On iPhone

First before you can find a downloaded file from Safari you need to download one. Here’s how to do it:

• In Safari navigate to the web page that has the file you want to download. 
• Tap the download link on the web page.
• As the file begins downloading, you’ll notice a down arrow in Safari’s menu bar. Click on this arrow to see a list of items you’ve downloaded via Safari.

Once you’ve got some downloaded files you can then find them on your iPhone. Here’s how!

Where Do Downloads Go On iPhone? Finding Downloaded Files On iPhone

Once you’ve downloaded files in Safari, it’s easy to find them on your iPhone. These steps work for iOS 13 , iOS 14 , and will work the same in the upcoming iOS 15 .

• After you’ve downloaded a file in Safari, go to your iPhone’s Home Screen.
• Find and tap on the File app. Its icon is a blue folder on a white background.
• In the Files app on the Browse screen, tap “iCloud Drive” from the Locations list.
• On the Files iCloud Drive screen look for the “Downloads” folder. This folder is blue and has an embossed downwards facing arrow with a circle around it. Tap on the Downloads folder when you find it.
• Inside the Downloads folder, you’ll find all the files that you’ve downloaded from websites in Safari. You can then interact with the downloaded file however you want.

Where Do Downloads Go On iPhone? Changing Default Download Location

By default Safari downloads will go into the Downloads folder of iCloud Drive , which can be found in the Files app. However, you can change the default location where Safari downloads are stored . Here’s how:

• Open the Settings app.
• Tap Safari.
• Tap Downloads.
• Under the “Store Downloaded Files On” header, tap another default download location from the list. Alternately, tap “Other” and select from any location of folder in the Files app.

And that’s it! You now know how to find items downloaded from websites in Safari in iOS on iPhone. Pretty simple, huh?

And want more tips? Check out how to fax from iPhone ! Also, check out how to share your Wi-Fi password with your iPhone !

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How to view and manage downloads in Safari for iPhone & iPad!

In this lesson from our full tutorial on Safari for iPhone & iPad see how to view and manage downloaded files in Safari and the Files App on your iOS devices. The Safari downloads list will only appear when you have recently downloaded a file so it can be easy to miss! Learn much more in the full tutorial here…  

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How to Find Downloaded Files and Photos on an iPhone

After downloading a photo or file from the internet, you might struggle to find it on your iPhone. Here are all the places you should look.

From time to time, we all download files to our iPhones. These might be PDFs, word documents, images, or videos. You name it.

But where do all these files go on an iPhone? This guide will help you find any content you've downloaded from the internet to your iPhone.

Find Downloaded Images in the Photos App on Your iPhone

Are you having trouble finding an image file you recently downloaded on your iPhone? Don't beat yourself up. You only need to know the right location to search for it. Generally, your iPhone will store files and photos in a different location.

To find downloaded photos on your iPhone, follow these steps:

• Locate and launch the Photos app.
• Select Library from the bottom menu. You should see your recently downloaded photo at the bottom. You may need to tap All Photos if it doesn't show up.
• If you downloaded the image some days back, scroll up your gallery to find it.

Find Downloaded Files in the Files App on Your iPhone

If you can't see the image inside the Photos app, chances are you didn't save it there or it's in an unsupported format. Usually, when you download a photo on your iPhone, you can choose to Save to Photos or Save to Files. The former means your iPhone will instantly save images to the Photos app.

However, if you saved it to the Files app, you'll need to follow a different set of steps. It doesn't matter whether you changed your iPhone's default browser or not. Your iPhone will store all downloaded files in the Files app.

So, here's what you need to do to find your Safari or other browser downloads:

• Launch the Files app.
• Tap Browse at the bottom (if you're not taken to the page automatically).
• Next, select iCloud Drive under Locations .
• Select Downloads .

Inside the Downloads folder, you'll find all your saved files. However, if you opted to save downloaded files on your iPhone's storage instead of iCloud, you need to look elsewhere.

Once in the Files app, go to Browse and select On My iPhone instead of iCloud Drive . Now, select Downloads to see your downloaded files.

What If Your Files Aren't in the Downloads Folder?

You won't find your downloads in the Downloads folder if you no longer use the default Safari storage location. In the recent versions of iOS, Apple lets you choose a default download location for your Safari downloads.

If you changed your default download location and can't remember, go to Settings > Safari and select Downloads under General . You should see your current download location.

If you use a third-party browser, you still have alternative ways to find your downloads. If you know the exact name of your file, you don't need to go through these hoops.

Directly on your iPhone Home Screen, swipe down from the middle of the screen to launch Spotlight search. Type the file name, and you'll see all the matching results across your iPhone.

If you're new to this kind of searching and like to know more, check out our guide on mastering Spotlight Search on iPhone and iPad . Alternatively, instead of using Spotlight Search, you can open the Files app and use the top search bar to find your file.

Quickly Find Downloads on Your iPhone

There are different ways to find your downloads on your iPhone. For images, you probably have to go to the Photos app. For other files, like documents and PDFs, the Files app is where you need to look.

However, if you download movies and TV shows using streaming apps, you'll have to dig into those individual apps to find your downloaded content.

Where Do Downloads Go in Safari on iPhone or iPad?

While browsing the web using Safari on your iPhone or iPad, you can download images, documents or PDFs by tapping links on websites. When you tap a link, a popup will appear saying, “Do you want to download ‘file.name’?” When you tap the Download option, the item will be downloaded onto your iPhone or iPad, and it will be saved to your default download location, which you can change.

It appears that some users are having trouble locating downloaded files. So how can you find them? Where is the Downloads folder?

Where to find Downloads in Safari

You can easily see the items that you have downloaded by tapping the AA icon at the left end of the Smart Search field in Safari and selecting Downloads, as you can see in the screenshot below. If you do not see the Downloads option, it means that your download list is empty. Depending on your settings, your list may be emptied automatically by Safari.

You may also notice a blue arrow. This blue arrow may appear next to the AA icon. This blue arrow icon indicates that you have recently downloaded an item.

As explained above, you can access the downloaded items in Safari. After you open Downloads, you can share, save, AirDrop, print or annotate the downloaded item. This is called the Downloads list. By default, this list will be emptied after one day. Note that just items in the list will be removed. Your downloaded file will still exist somewhere on your iPhone. There are a few settings you can customize.

Where are downloaded files saved on your iPhone or iPad?

By default, downloaded items will be saved in the Downloads folder in the Files app. This folder can be located in either iCloud Drive or On My iPhone. You can also change the location. Here is how:

• Open Settings .
• Tap Safari .
• Tap Downloads .
• iCloud Drive – Downloads. If you select this option, your downloaded items will be available on your other devices too, if you are signed in with the same Apple ID.
• On My iPhone or iPad – Downloads. If you select this option, your downloaded items will only be stored on your iPhone or iPad.
• Or tap Other to select another location of your choosing in iCloud or on your device.

How to customize when items are removed from the Downloads list

By default, Safari will remove an item from the list after one day. However, you can change this. Here is how:

• Tap Remove Download List Items .
• After one day : Your list will be cleared after one day.
• Upon successful download : This will make it so there will be no Downloads list in Safari. Any item you download will directly go to the download folder.
• Manually : This will make it so the list will stay intact unless you clear it. To clear it, open the Downloads List (tap AA, then Downloads in Safari), then tap Clear to delete all. If you want to delete individual items, swipe left and tap Delete.

Related articles

• iPhone / iPad Popup Says Unable to Download Item, Fix
• Do you Want to Download “f.txt.js”?
• How To Restore Disappeared Downloads Folder To Dock & Sidebar In Finder
• How To Manage Downloads In Safari On iPhone And iPad
• App Store: Unable to Download App? Fix

Dr. Serhat Kurt worked as a Senior Technology Director specializing in Apple solutions for small and medium-sized educational institutions. He holds a doctoral degree (or doctorate) from the University of Illinois at Urbana / Champaign and a master’s degree from Purdue University. He is a former faculty member. Here is his LinkedIn profile and Google Scholar profile . Email Serhat Kurt .

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7 Ways to Fix Safari Not Downloading Files on iPhone and Mac

Parth Shah is an evergreen freelance writer covering how-tos, app guides, comparisons, listicles, and troubleshooting guides on Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, and smart TV platforms. He has over five years of experience and has covered 1,500+ articles on GuidingTech and Android Police. In his free time, you will see him binge-watching Netflix shows, reading books, and traveling.

Shachi is a law student with a curiosity for consumer technology. Being a fanatic of the Apple ecosystem, you can often find her hustling for solutions for Apple-related issues. If you have any issues with your iPhone or Mac, she’s the go-to troubleshooter. When not engrossed in writing or her thick law textbooks, you can find her snapping away brilliant portraits of people on her iPhone 15 Pro.

• If your Safari isn’t downloading files, start the solution hunt with checking your Wi-Fi’s stability.
• Ensure you’ve given permission for downloading files from the requisite website on your Mac.
• To enable permission, Launch Safari Settings on Mac > Websites >   Downloads from the left sidebar. Choose Allow in the menu beside the website you wish to download from.

Basic Fixes

• Check Network Connection: Safari won’t download media or other files if the data connection on your iPhone or Mac is spotty. Do a simple speed test , reload the page or check if your Mac has Wi-Fi issues .
• Check if the Website Is Down: Safari can’t download the files if the website faces uptime issues. You visit Downdetector to confirm the problem. If there is, wait till the website is up and running.
• Disable Low Data Mode: An active low data mode may interfere with the background download process on Safari. To disable, go to Settings > Mobile Service > Primary > Low Data Mode .
• Update Your Devices: Updating can even out bugs. So, on both your Mac and iPhone go to Settings > General > Software Update .

Fix 1: Use a VPN and Try Another Server

When we faced Safari not downloading files issue on our iPhone, we used a VPN to connect to one of the US servers. The trick worked like a charm, and Safari completed the download process in no time. You can download any popular VPN app from the App Store and change your region.

Fix 2: Disable iCloud Private Relay

iCloud Private Relay is a part of iCloud+ and Apple One subscriptions on iPhone. The option is enabled by default to deliver a secure browsing experience. It hides your IP address and browsing activity in Safari and protects your unencrypted internet traffic from prying eyes.

You can temporarily disable iCloud Private Relay and try again.

Step 1: Open the Settings app on your iPhone. Go to your Profile .

Step 2: Tap iCloud and open Private Relay from the following menu. Then, disable the toggle beside Private Relay on the next page.

Step 1: Open System Settings on Mac. Go to your profile and select iCloud .

Step 2: Select Private Relay .

Step 3: Disable the toggle beside Private Relay .

Fix 3: Corrupt File

Are you trying to download a corrupt file from Safari? You may face issues with downloading such files. You should stay away from sketchy websites and use official sources to download files.

Fix 4: Force Quit Safari

You can force quit Safari on iPhone or Mac and try again. iPhone users can swipe up and hold from the bottom to open the recent apps menu. Swipe up on Safari to close it. Now, launch the browser and download files again.

If you have a Mac, open Activity Monitor on Mac. Select Safari . Then, click the X mark at the top. Launch Safari and try downloading your files again.

Fix 5: Check iPhone and Mac Space

Insufficient storage on your iPhone or Mac can be the main reason behind download glitches on Safari. Here’s how to check your iPhone and Mac storage and take the required steps to free up space.

Step 1: Open Settings and scroll to General . Select iPhone Storage .

Check the detailed breakup of app storage. Clear unwanted storage or purchase iCloud+ subscription if you have storage issues.

Step 1: Head to System Settings . Select Storage.

Step 2: Check your Mac storage. You can empty bin, store files in iCloud, or optimize storage to free up space.

Fix 6: Give Required Permission (Mac)

If your Mac’s settings don’t allow downloading files from Safari on Mac, you won’t be able to download files. You need to make some tweaks from the Settings menu as follows.

Launch Safari Settings on Mac. Move to the Websites menu. Select Downloads from the left sidebar. Choose Allow in the menu beside the website you wish to download from.

Fix 7: Try Safari Alternatives

In case you missed it, Apple lets you change the default browser on your iPhone and Mac. Using Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge as your daily driver is easier than ever. You can install your preferred browser from the App Store or the web and download files easily.

Was this helpful?

Last updated on 03 June, 2024

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Where to find downloads from Safari

Ive downloaded few files in Safari.. but can’t find it in my files or media.. where to look for ?

Posted on Nov 11, 2021 10:06 PM

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Nov 12, 2021 4:57 PM in response to 11maddy38

Hi 11maddy38,

Thanks for posting in Apple Support Communities. We understand that you're having some issues locating the files that you downloaded in Safari on your Mac.

To change where downloaded files are saved on your Mac, go to Safari > Preferences > General > File download location. When you do this, you can also see which folder was selected previously and that folder is where you'll find your downloads. You can find these and other tips from Download items from the web using Safari on Mac .

How to view and clear your web browsing history in Safari on iPhone or iPad

Easily wipe your browsing history in Apple's Safari web browser in seconds.

What you'll need

How to find your web-browsing history, how to clear your web browsing history.

Clearing your browsing history on iPhone and iPad in Safari has been a straightforward affair for years now.

Sometimes you want to clear your history to get rid of bloat and streamline your browsing experience. Other times, you're trying to hide a gift purchase from a loved one.

Apple makes it very easy to clear your browsing history on both the iPhone and iPad and we're here to show you how. Here's how you can make a fresh start in Safari and debloat your web browsing experience.

On the latest models, web browsing is smoother than ever before thanks to ProMotion in the iPhone 15 Pro and faster chipsets like the M2 found in the iPad Air 6 . If you're looking for a new Apple device, we highly recommend one of the following: 

iPhone 15 Pro $999 at Apple

Grab the best iPhone available right now starting from $999. With a gorgeous titanium finish and the most powerful chip ever in an iPhone, you won't be disappointed with the 15 Pro. 

iPad Air 6 13-inch | $799 $754 at Amazon

With an M2 chip and a 13-inch screen option, the new iPad Air 6 is one of the best iPads available right now. Normally $799, you can pick up the 13-inch model for nearly $50 off at the moment — don't miss out.

Viewing your web history in iOS 17 and iPadOS 17 is very easy to do, here's how:

• In Safari, tap the Bookmarks button in the toolbar that's below the address bar.
• Tap the History icon in the upper right corner. Here, you can view your entire web history.

• Use the History search bar to find previously viewed pages.

If the time calls to wipe most or all of your web browsing history in Safari, here's how to do it on both iPhone and iPad.

To note, the below steps will be the same if you attempt to wipe your web browsing history on an iPhone 15 Pro Max or an iPad Mini 6 , all Apple devices require the same steps.

Master your iPhone in minutes

iMore offers spot-on advice and guidance from our team of experts, with decades of Apple device experience to lean on. Learn more with iMore!

• In Safari, tap the Bookmarks button.
• Select the History icon in the upper right corner.
• Tap Clear and select how much history you'd like to clear: the last hour, the last day, 48 hours' worth, or all recorded history.

One more thing… A feature no one talks about

Privacy on the web matters more than ever in these modern times. Websites store the pages you click on, especially when you sign into a page that can contain personal information about you.

It's great to have a feature like this in Safari — but it would be good to have this automated in iOS 18 . If Apple's web browser could automatically clear history after 24 hours it would be very useful, as you wouldn't leave a trail behind.

Regardless, it's still a good feature, and one you should use every week.

Daryl is iMore's Features Editor, overseeing long-form and in-depth articles and op-eds. Daryl loves using his experience as both a journalist and Apple fan to tell stories about Apple's products and its community, from the apps we use everyday to the products that have been long forgotten in the Cupertino archives.

Previously Software & Downloads Writer at TechRadar, and Deputy Editor at StealthOptional, he's also written a book, ' The Making of Tomb Raider ', which tells the story of the beginnings of Lara Croft and the series' early development. He's also written for many other publications including WIRED, MacFormat, Bloody Disgusting, VGC, GamesRadar, Nintendo Life, VRV Blog, The Loop Magazine, SUPER JUMP, Gizmodo, Film Stories, TopTenReviews, Miketendo64 and Daily Star.

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Fix: iPhone Lagging and Freezing iOS 17/17.5.1

iOS updates bring in new features, enhance the security of the iPhone, and also optimize it to perform better. Sadly, multiple users have reported that ever since they updated to iOS 17.5.1, their iPhones have been lagging. Moreover, there are constant frame drops while scrolling, keyboard freezing when typing and even the browsing experience on Safari has deteriorated. If you’re facing similar problems, here are ten fixes to try.

How To Fix iPhone Lagging and Freezing After iOS 17.5.1 Update

1. change keyboard settings.

With iOS 17, Apple updated the Auto-Correction feature with a transformer language model which also improves the Predictive Text feature. The keyboard has inline predictive text recommendations too. While this is a step in the right direction, it consumes a huge chunk of resources, especially if you have an older iPhone. 

Therefore, we suggest disabling the Auto-Correction and Predictive Text feature on your iPhone as it might help fix your iPhone lagging. Especially because other users have reported that doing so helps resolve the issue.

Time needed:  2 minutes

Steps to disable Auto-Correction and Predictive Text in Keyboard settings.

2. Remove Dictionary and Add It Back

The Dictionary feature helps you “Look Up” the meaning of words on your iPhone. You can add dictionaries of several different languages. But for some reason, these dictionaries might be the reason your iPhone is lagging. 

Yes, it does not make a lot of sense, but a user on the Apple Discussion Community has reported that removing all the dictionaries and then adding back only the ones you use helps fix iPhone lagging issues. Therefore, we suggest you do the same. 

• Open Settings on your iPhone and head to General . 
• Tap the Dictionary option. 

• Restart your iPhone. If you’re unaware of the steps to do so, ask Siri to restart your iPhone . 
• After your iPhone restarts, head back to Settings > General > Dictionary . 

3. Disable Siri Contact Suggestions

Since Siri won’t be actively analyzing your contacts for suggestions, you’ll free up some processing power.

• Open Settings on your iPhone and head to the Contacts option.
• Tap the Siri & Search option. 
• On the next screen, disable the Learn from this App toggle. 
• Disable the Show Contact Suggestions toggle too. 

4. Change Your Wallpaper

Although Apple removed Live Wallpapers on iOS 16, you can still set various still images as your background. Unfortunately, those with too many elements (e.g., Weather & Astronomy, Live Photos, and Kaleidoscope) can cause some lagging. It’s best to opt for simpler options.

• Go to Settings > Wallpaper .

5. Clear Safari History and Data

If Safari is lagging, freezing, or crashing on your iPhone running on iOS 17.5.1, the first thing you must do is to clear Safari’s History and Website Data.

• Open Settings on your iPhone and navigate to Safari .
• Scroll down and tap the Clear History and Website Data button. 
• Select the All History option from the Clear Timeframe menu. 
• You can also enable the Close All Tabs toggle. It won’t delete any tabs that are in a Tab Group. 
• Finally, tap the Clear History button. 
• Scroll to the bottom of the page and tap the Advanced button. 
• Tap the Website Data button. 
• On the Website Data page, tap the Remove All Website Data button. 
• Tap the Remove Now button to confirm your selection. 

If the aforementioned steps don’t fix the freezing issues on your iPhone, please refer to our detailed guide on how to fix Safari Freezing on your iPhone . 

6. Clear Background Apps

Apps running in the background can also be the reason why your iPhone is lagging. Please clear all the background apps and it might free up the RAM and fix lagging issues. 

• For iPhone with Face ID: Swipe up and hold on to the Home Screen .  For iPhone with Touch ID: Double tap the Home Button .
• Swipe up on all the app s in the Recent Apps tray. 

7. Force Restart iPhone

Temporary bugs and glitches in the software, apps, or services can also cause the iPhone to lag. Force restarting your iPhone can help get rid of these bugs and fix the lagging issues. 

Steps to Force Restart iPhone (iPhone 8, iPhone SE 2nd Gen and above) 

• Press and release the volume up button .
• Press and release the volume down button .
• Next, press and hold the Side button until the Apple logo appears. 
• As soon as you see the Apple logo, release the Side button . Please do not release the Side button before the Apple logo appears on the screen. 

Steps to Force Restart iPhone 7 or iPhone 7 Plus

Press and hold the Volume down and Side buttons simultaneously. Release the buttons once the Apple logo appears. 

Steps to Force Restart iPhone 6s or below 

Press and hold the Side and Home buttons simultaneously. Release the buttons once the Apple logo appears. 

8. Update All Apps

Outdated apps on your iPhone might be causing some lagging.

• Open the App Store on your iPhone.
• Tap on your Profile at the top right corner. 
• Scroll down to the Available Updates section and tap the Update All button. 

9. Check Storage Space

Most of us are aware that iPhones tend to lag when running extremely low on storage space. If you haven’t already, please check the free storage space on your iPhone. If it is low, we suggest uninstalling apps or unused media files to free up storage space as it might help fix the lag or stutters on your iPhone. 

• Open Settings on your iPhone and head to the General option.

• The next screen will display the amount of occupied and total storage space on your iPhone. You can delete apps that you don’t use often to free up storage space on your iPhone. 
• Tap on any app you want to delete.

Also, in case your iPhone displays a “Recommendations” option, tap on it and follow the recommended actions to free up storage space. The quickest way to empty storage space is to use a maintenance tool. One of the most popular apps is the Intego Washing Machine because it fully declutters your iPhone and increases its health significantly.

10. Factory Reset iPhone

If none of the aforementioned methods help resolve the issue, the last option you’re left with is to factory reset your iPhone. Please refer to our guide on How to Factory Reset Your iPhone for detailed instructions. 

We hope this guide helps fix your iPhone lagging after the iOS 17.5.1 update. If you have any doubts, please let us know in the comments below. 

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• Darryl Dsouza

Six Ways to Speed Up Your iPhone

I t’s hard to be patient with a slow iPhone , especially when using it for everything, from the calculator to getting directions on Maps. No one likes dealing with lag, buffering, or app freezing. Fortunately, there are a few ways you could speed up your iPhone.

Restart your iPhone

Let’s start with the classic “Did you try turning it off and on again?” It’s a classic for a reason, not just another tech myth. On a technical level, it helps refresh your iPhone’s RAM or working memory, which optimizes its overall performance. Since it’s probably the most straightforward hack, I’d recommend starting with this one.

There are slightly different ways to restart an iPhone based on its model. If you can’t get yours to restart, you might want to do a quick “how to restart [your iPhone model]” search. In case you’re unsure about your iPhone’s model, we have a guide for that , too.

Clear Safari Data

I’m sure we have encountered an ‘Accept Cookies’ popup. Even if you have no idea what that does, you’ve probably accepted tons of cookies by now. Refer to this helpful guide for a detailed and easy lesson on internet cookies. For the scope of this piece, all you need to know is that every time you click on ‘Accept Cookies’ on your browser, you’re putting a bunch of files on your device. These files pile up over time and end up slowing your phone.

If you frequently use Safari on your iPhone, you probably have a lot of passwords, cookies, tabs, and other login info in your Safari cache. It’s a good habit to clear that from time to time. Note that this will require re-entering login credentials or other personal info on some sites since clearing your cache will make your Safari brand new again.

To clear all Safari data, go to Settings on your iPhone and look up ‘Safari.’ Once in the Safari menu, scroll down until you see ‘Clear History and Website Data.’ It will ask you to pick a timeframe. Select ‘All history’ and then hit the red button at the bottom that says ‘Clear History.’

Free Up Space

Full storage is one of the leading causes of a sluggish iPhone. Go to Settings , scroll to General , and click on iPhone Storage from the menu. Doing so will present you with a stacked bar chart and an ordered list of your iPhone’s storage situation, clearly labeling how much space is occupied by which app.

It will also provide you with recommendations on how to free up space. Under Recommendations , click on Review Large Attachments to see the photos, videos, and attachments that are taking up the most space. When you see something you want to delete, swipe left and hit Delete .

There are other ways to free up space on your iPhone, but it ultimately depends on your priorities and your phone use. If you don’t always need all your photos and videos on your phone, you can back them up on iCloud and delete them from your iPhone. However, this would mean you would no longer be able to access them without the internet.

Similarly, if you don’t need all your iMessages, you can mass-delete them. I’ll review all the ways to clear storage on your iPhone in a separate, dedicated guide.

iOS updates often bring bug fixes that help improve your iPhone’s efficiency, so it’s a good idea to always be on the latest software update. You can do that by turning automatic updates on. Go to Settings > General > Software Update > Automatic Updates and turn on the toggle switch for all three options on the page. This will automatically download and install iOS software updates when your phone is connected to Wi-Fi, charging, and locked.

You can also manually update your iOS. A ‘Software Update Available’ notice on your Settings app under your Apple ID will tell you there’s a newer version you haven’t yet updated to. If you see that, scroll down to General > Software Update and click Download and Install to begin the update. If you don’t see that notice, you’re on the latest version.

Replace Battery

Another possible reason for a slow phone is a battery overused to the point of dysfunction. If your iPhone is old, its battery’s health may not be ideal. To see if that’s the case, go to Settings, look up Battery Health, and click on Battery Health & Charging from the open menu. Anything 80% and above is good, but Apple recommends replacing your battery when its health falls below that mark.

Turn Off Automatic Downloads and Background App Refresh

Apps on your iPhone tend to auto-update. While this is helpful, it could become overwhelming for your phone, especially if you have many apps on it. Multiple background app refreshes also take place without you knowing. Again, this is a helpful feature, but it could lead to a considerable drop in your phone’s efficiency if you have many apps that constantly refresh and update.

Go to Settings > App Store and turn off all three toggle switches under ‘Automatic Downloads.’ These are App Downloads, App Updates, and In-App Content. Then, go to General > Background App Refresh > Background App Refresh (again) and choose Off . Doing both will ensure no power-hungry apps are running in the background. If you’d like an app updated, you can constantly manually update it in the App Store.

No, closing your background apps won’t help.

I know; I felt as deceived as you did when Gizmodo Maxwell Zeff told us that closing background apps doesn’t do anything and that I have been making my poor little thumb do all that labor for years for nothing. It’s just a tech myth that originated years ago on Apple’s community forum and Stack Overflow and has been perpetuated ever since (because it sounds like it should work!). But yeah, doing that won’t affect either performance or battery.

Are some of your apps still running slow?

Are you sure it’s your phone and not your network? People often mistake a slow connection for a slow phone. Especially if you’re experiencing lag on apps that require an internet connection, it might just be your internet that needs fixing.

To quickly check this, look up ‘speed test’ on your browser. You’ll see an ‘Internet speed test’ pop-up. Hit the blue button that says ‘run speed test.’ In around 30 seconds, you’ll get precise stats on your download and upload speeds and a comment on your internet performance.

I just ran mine, and it said, “Your Internet connection is very fast. It should be able to handle multiple devices streaming HD videos, video conferencing, and gaming at the same time.” So, if my iPhone starts acting up, I’d know it’s not my internet.

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