Apple’s iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 updates are packed with new features, from AI-powered enhancements to a revamped Photos app. But there’s a handy hidden gem that Apple didn’t advertise during their WWDC presentation: the ability to format external drives directly on your iPhone or iPad.
This might seem like a minor detail, but for anyone who frequently uses external storage with their Apple devices, it’s a game-changer. Previously, formatting an external drive required a Mac and Disk Utility. Now, with iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 (currently in developer beta), you can do it all within the familiar Files app.
Here’s the scoop:
- Simple Formatting: Connect your external drive to your iPhone or iPad. In the Files app, tap and hold on the drive and select “Erase.” You’ll now see new formatting options, including APFS (Apple’s File System), ExFAT, and MS-DOS (FAT).
- Choice and Control: These options mirror what you’d find in Disk Utility on a Mac, giving you control over how your drive is formatted, depending on your needs.
- A Step Up from Erasing: This feature builds upon the existing “Erase” function in iOS 17. Now, you can not only erase the data on your drive but also reformat it entirely, ensuring compatibility with different devices and operating systems.
Important Notes:
- Early Access: Keep in mind that this feature is currently only available in the developer beta versions of iOS 18 and iPadOS 18. So, unless you’re a registered developer, you’ll have to wait for the official public release later this year.
- Data Loss Warning: Formatting a drive erases all existing data. Make sure you’ve backed up anything important before proceeding.
Overall, the ability to format external drives directly on iOS and iPadOS is a welcome addition. It streamlines the process for managing your storage and makes iPhones and iPads even more versatile for users who rely on external storage solutions.
