How to Find Local Files on iPad

Locate and manage files stored directly on your iPad using the Files app. Learn to navigate the On My iPad directory and organize your local documents.

1. Open the Files app. Locate the Files app icon on your Home Screen or Dock. Tap the icon to launch the file management interface.
2. Access the sidebar. If the sidebar is not visible, tap the Sidebar button in the top-left corner of the interface. This reveals the Locations and Favorites sections necessary for navigation.
3. Select On My iPad. Find the 'On My iPad' section under the Locations header in the sidebar. Tap it once to display all folders and files physically stored on your device's internal storage.
4. Create a new folder. To organize your files, tap and hold on an empty space within the browser window. Select New Folder from the pop-up menu and enter a name for your directory.
5. Move files locally. Tap and hold a file until the context menu appears, or drag the file directly into your target folder. To select multiple files, tap the three-dot menu icon in the top toolbar, select Select, and check your desired items before dragging.
6. Search within local storage. Use the Search bar at the top of the Files app while inside the On My iPad directory. Typing a filename here will filter results exclusively for locally stored items.