Zip files, also known as compressed files, are a convenient way to package multiple files or folders into a single archive. Opening zip files on an iPhone can be useful when you receive attachments or download files from the internet. While iOS doesn’t provide a built-in file manager for handling zip files, there are several methods you can use to open and extract their contents on your iPhone. In this article, we’ll explore different approaches to help you open zip files on your iPhone.
Method 1: Using the Files App
1. Locate the zip file: If you received a zip file via email or downloaded it from a website, open the respective app to find the file. Alternatively, if you’ve saved the zip file in a cloud storage service like iCloud Drive or Dropbox, open the corresponding app to access the file.
2. Tap and hold the zip file: Once you’ve found the zip file, tap and hold on it until a menu appears. If you’re using the Mail app, you may need to tap the share icon (a square with an arrow pointing up) before selecting “Save to Files” from the sharing options.
3. Choose “Save to Files”: From the menu, select the “Save to Files” option. This will open the Files app on your iPhone.
4. Select a destination: In the Files app, choose a location to save the extracted files. You can select an existing folder or tap “New Folder” to create a new one. Once you’ve selected the destination, tap “Add” to begin the extraction process.
5. Access the extracted files: After the extraction process completes, you can open the folder where the extracted files are saved. From there, you can view and interact with the files as you would with any other files on your iPhone.
Method 2: Using a Third-Party File Manager
If you prefer a more feature-rich file management experience, you can use third-party file manager apps available on the App Store. These apps often come with built-in support for opening and extracting zip files. Here’s how you can use a third-party file manager to open zip files on your iPhone:
1. Install a file manager app: Go to the App Store and search for file manager apps such as “Documents by Readdle,” “FileMaster,” or “FileApp.” Install the app of your choice.
2. Open the file manager app: Launch the file manager app you installed and navigate to the location where the zip file is saved. If it’s stored in a cloud storage service, you may need to link the app to your account and sync the files.
3. Tap on the zip file: Locate the zip file and tap on it to open it. The file manager app should recognize the file format and prompt you to extract the contents.
4. Extract the files: Follow the on-screen instructions to extract the files from the zip archive. You may be able to choose a destination folder for the extracted files during this process.
5. Access the extracted files: Once the extraction is complete, you can browse and open the extracted files within the file manager app.
Method 3: Using Zip Extractor Apps
If you don’t need a full-fledged file manager but want a simple and dedicated app to handle zip files, you can use a zip extractor app. These apps are specifically designed to handle zip files and provide a streamlined experience for extracting their contents. Here’s how to use a zip extractor app:
1. Install a zip extractor app: Search the App Store for zip extractor apps like “WinZip,” “iZip,” or “Zip Viewer.” Install the app that suits your preferences.
2. Open the zip extractor app: Launch the zip extractor app you installed on your iPhone.
3. Import the zip file: In the app, look for an option to import or open a zip file. This option is usually located prominently on the app’s home screen.
4. Select the zip file: Navigate to the location where the zip file is stored and select it.
5. Extract the files: The app should automatically start extracting the contents of the zip file. Depending on the app, you may have the option to choose a destination folder for the extracted files.
6. Access the extracted files: Once the extraction is complete, you can view and open the extracted files within the zip extractor app itself or choose to export them to another location on your iPhone.
By following these methods, you can easily open and extract zip files on your iPhone.
