Discover new Files features

These tips will show you how to use iPadOS 17's improved Files app.

Author

Leander Kahney
January 10, 2024

Slowly and steadily, Apple has labored to make the iPad work more like a Mac.

It’s been a long road, but the sustained effort has transformed the iPad from a device primarily for consuming media into one for making it.

For years, one of the biggest complaints from users was the inability to directly access the iPad’s underlying file system. Without that, it was nigh impossible to do routine stuff like copying, moving and deleting files.

Apple finally added a Files app to iPadOS 13 back in 2019, but it was limited in what it could do.

That changed with iPadOS 17. The Files app is finally much more Mac-like and will change the way you use your iPad. Here’s what the new Files app can do — and how to use it.

Also in today’s newsletter:

  • The Rabbit R1 is a new AI-powered device like Humane’s Ai Pin, except with a decent introductory video. With hardware designed by the beloved Teenage Engineering group, it looks impressive. But see the tweet below for a pretty damning critique of the potential smoke and mirrors behind the company’s claims.

  • Your Apple Watch will never run out of juice again with this charger cleverly incorporated into the strap.

  • OtterBox cases have a reputation for toughness. You’ll never guess what the company’s new “leather” cases are made from.

  • This envy-inducing setup (Mac Studio and Studio Display) is largely affordable thanks to a relative who works at Apple. It might make you jealous, but it does look good.

— Leander Kahney, EIC.

How to use long-overdue improvements to the Files app in iPadOS 17

Apple finally added new tools to the Files app for working with external drives, such as seeing space remaining on a thumb drive. Here’s how to make the most of Apple’s updated file-management app.

Ask AI-powered Rabbit R1 for anything (without touching an app)

It won't replace your iPhone (yet), but the Rabbit RI looks intriguing as an app controller for those who like talking to their devices.

Terrible Mac sales in 2023 help explain why Apple rushed out M3 processor

Shipments of Macs plunged in 2023. This may be why Apple launched the M3 processor just nine months after the M2 debut.

OtterBox makes 'leather' iPhone cases out of ... cacti?!?

OtterBox says its new Symmetry Series Cactus Leather iPhone cases, made from a vegan leather alternative, are high-end, protective and green.

A message from the Cult of Mac Deals team

This Apple Watch band's secret weapon is a concealed wireless charger

Why carry a separate cable when you can wear a magnetic Apple Watch charger on your wrist? The PowerBand comes with one built-in.

Kensington hub uses Thunderbolt 5 to transfer files at an amazing 120Gbps

Kensington just unveiled one of the first docks using Thunderbolt 5. It will include an array of ports and support dual 8K displays.

‘The Dynasty’ documentary tackles the many victories and controversies of the New England Patriots

Football fans can look forward to the February premiere of "The Dynasty: New England Patriots," an Apple TV+ sports documentary.

A message from the Cult of Mac Deals team

Take 25% off fine leather cases for iPhone, AirPods, MacBooks and more

Like leather goods' timeless appeal? Now's your chance to bag classy cases and more from Mujjo for all your Apple gear.

Automatically turn screen recordings into eye-catching videos

It's easy to produce videos for promos, demos, tutorials and more with FocuSee screen recording software for Mac (and Windows).

AirPods airplane adapter makes in-flight entertainment sound great

Don't resort to freebie earbuds for airplane movies. The Eve II is an affordable Bluetooth adapter that works on planes and at home.

Juuk Aruna band brings smooth and shiny stainless steel to Apple Watch

Need a quick, easy way to give your Apple Watch a high-end look? Check out Juuk’s outstanding Aruna band, made from smooth stainless steel.

Today in Apple history: Steve Jobs introduces original MacBook Pro

On January 10, 2006, Apple unveiled the original 15-inch MacBook Pro at Macworld. The first Intel-powered Apple laptop was the thinnest yet.

His sister works for Apple. Brace for jealousy. [Setups]

Yeah, some people get special deals on notoriously pricey Apple hardware, and to them we say, simply, "Congrats."

Tweetz o’ the day

One more thing ...

❝

Let's make it simple. Really simple.

— Steve Jobs, 2011.

Today’s poll

Does the Rabbit R1 seem better than Humane's Ai Pin?

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Results from yesterday’s poll: Were you excited by Steve Jobs' iPhone keynote?

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