WiseCleaner Think Tank
Encounter difficult computer problems?
All about maintenance and optimization of your Windows System.
Sep 9, 2025
Downloading files on an iPhone is easy, but locating them later can seem tricky, especially if you’re used to a traditional desktop folder structure. In iOS, Apple consolidates downloads in the Files app and in individual apps that saved them. This article walks you through where to find your downloaded documents, images, videos, and more.
Generally, you can find downloaded files from Safari and other third-party apps in the Files app.
1. Swipe down the home screen to the Search Files app (blue folder icon) to open.
2. Tap the Browse tab at the bottom.
3. Under Locations, you’ll see iCloud Drive, On My iPhone, and any third-party storage apps (Dropbox, Google Drive).
4. By default, Safari downloads go to iCloud Drive > Downloads or On My iPhone > Downloads. Tap that folder to view recent files.
You can sort by Name, Date, Size, or Tags by tapping the three-dot icon in the top right and choosing Sort By.
If you just downloaded files in Safari, you can find them in the browser by following this:
1. Next to the search field in Safari, tap the Page Settings button (double A letters).
2. Tap the Downloads button.
If you are using Chrome, you can hit the three dots in the lower right corner to find the Downloads tab. Tap on it to check your files.
It’s recommended to change or confirm your default download location of Safari, so that you can easily find your files in the specific folder in the Files app.
1. Go to Files app> Browser.
2. Tap the three dots on the upper right corner, and select New Folder to create a folder.
3. Open Settings app> Safari > Downloads. You’ll see Download Location.
4. Choose Other… to find the new folder you just created. This ensures future downloads go where you expect.
Please note that you cannot change the default download location for the Chrome app on an iPhone to a different folder within the Files app. Downloads from Chrome are saved to a Chrome folder inside the On My iPhone location in the Files app by default.
Tagging your downloaded files can help you group them and find them easily next time in the Files app.
1. In Files, tap and hold a file, then choose Tags.
2. Assign a colored tag (Work, Personal, Urgent, etc.).
3. Later, tap Tags under the Favorites section in the Browse tab to see grouped files.
By knowing where Safari, third-party apps like Chrome store downloads, and by customizing your default download location, you’ll always be able to retrieve the documents, images, and videos you save. Spend a few minutes organizing folders and tags, and you’ll never lose track of a downloaded file again.
