How to Use an External Drive with iPad Files

Learn to manage files, transfer data, and format external drives using the Files app on your USB-C iPad. Simple, step-by-step instructions.

1. Connect the drive to your iPad. Insert the USB-C cable into your external drive and connect the other end to the USB-C port on your iPad. If your drive requires additional power, ensure it is connected to a powered hub or its own dedicated power source.
2. Open the Files app. Locate and open the Files app from your Home Screen or App Library. Tap the Browse tab at the bottom of the screen to view the sidebar where your connected storage will appear.
3. Locate the external volume. Look under the Locations section in the sidebar. Your external drive will be listed by its name; tap it to mount the drive and view the contents stored on the device.
4. Move or copy files. Long-press a file or folder in the Files app and select Copy or Move from the menu. Navigate to your external drive in the sidebar, long-press in an empty area of the folder window, and select Paste to transfer the data.
5. Format the drive. If you need to change the file system, tap the More (...) icon in the top right corner of the Files app while the drive is selected. Choose Erase from the menu to format the drive to APFS, ExFAT, or MS-DOS (FAT).
6. Safely disconnect the device. Tap the Eject icon located next to the drive name in the sidebar before unplugging the cable. Once the drive disappears from the Locations list, it is safe to remove the hardware.