
How Do You Open Zip Files on an iPhone?
Opening zip files on an iPhone can be a bit tricky if you’re not familiar with the process. However, with the right steps and tools, you can easily access the contents of a zip file on your iPhone. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the process in detail, ensuring you have a seamless experience.
Using the Built-in Files App
The Files app that comes pre-installed on your iPhone can open zip files. Here’s how to do it:
- Open the Files app on your iPhone.
- Tap on the Browse tab at the bottom of the screen.
- Scroll down and tap on the location where the zip file is stored, such as iCloud Drive, Dropbox, or a local folder.
- Find the zip file and tap on it.
- Tap on the “i” icon next to the zip file to view its details.
- Under the “Sharing & Preview” section, tap on “Preview” to open the contents of the zip file.
Keep in mind that the Files app can only preview the contents of a zip file. If you want to extract the files, you’ll need to use a third-party app.
Using a Third-Party App
There are several third-party apps available on the App Store that can open and extract zip files on your iPhone. Here are a few popular options:
App Name | Description | Price |
---|---|---|
WinZip | WinZip is a popular file compression and extraction app that supports zip files. | $4.99 |
Unarchiver | Unarchiver is a free app that can open and extract various archive formats, including zip files. | Free |
Archiver | Archiver is a simple and user-friendly app that can open and extract zip files. | $1.99 |
Here’s how to use a third-party app to open and extract a zip file:
- Download and install a third-party app from the App Store that supports zip files.
- Open the app and navigate to the location where the zip file is stored.
- Find the zip file and tap on it.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to extract the files from the zip file.
Using the Share Menu
Another way to open zip files on your iPhone is by using the Share menu. Here’s how to do it:
- Find the zip file you want to open.
- Tap on the zip file to select it.
- Tap on the Share button (the square with an arrow pointing up) at the bottom of the screen.
- Scroll through the available apps and tap on the one you want to use to open the zip file.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to open and extract the files from the zip file.
Some of the apps that may appear in the Share menu include the Files app, WinZip, and other third-party file management apps.
Using a Computer
Opening zip files on your iPhone can also be done by first extracting the files on a computer and then transferring them to your iPhone. Here’s how to do it:
- Connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable.
- Open the Finder on your Mac or File Explorer on your PC.
- Locate your iPhone in the sidebar and double-click on it.
- Navigate to the location where the zip file is stored on your iPhone.
- Right-click on the zip file and select “Extract All” (on a Mac) or “Extract” (on a PC).
- Choose a location on your computer to save the extracted files.
- Disconnect your iPhone from the computer.