Apple’s iOS 18 and macOS Sequoia introduce a major upgrade to the Files app with the new ‘Keep Downloaded’ option.
Now, you can ensure your essential files and folders stay accessible offline whenever needed, regardless of your internet connection.
Previously, iCloud’s automatic file management could offload files to free up space, sometimes making critical documents unavailable right when you needed them.
This often led to frustrating moments, especially in a place with poor connectivity, like on a plane or in a remote area.
Apple has addressed this challenge with iOS 18 and macOS Sequoia. Now, as you browse through iCloud in the Files app on iOS or Finder on macOS, you can long-press or right-click any file or folder and select ‘Keep Downloaded.’
This action pins the selected items to your device, ensuring they’re always accessible without an internet connection.
This feature is especially useful for frequent travelers and remote workers. It can help if you’re working on an important presentation mid-flight.
Previously, there was a risk of losing access to your file if it had been offloaded to save space.
Now, with “Keep Downloaded,” you can feel confident that your key documents will stay available offline whenever needed.
To use this feature, follow these steps:
1. Navigate to the Files app on iOS or Finder on macOS.
2. Find the file or folder you want to keep downloaded and long-press (or right-click on Mac).
3. Select Keep Downloaded from the menu.
An opaque cloud icon next to the item confirms it will stay on your device.
The Bottom Line
Keep in mind that “Keep Downloaded” isn’t a tool for saving space but a solution for uninterrupted access to your most important files.
If you want tips on how to save valuable storage space on your iCloud, check out our guide on how to save iCloud storage on your iPhone.
