How to View and Change File Extensions on iPhone and iPad

Understanding file extensions is essential for managing files effectively on your iPhone or iPad. A file’s full name consists of its name and its extension (for example, image.png). The file extension identifies the file type and determines which apps can open it.

Without the extension, it can be difficult to know what a file actually is. However, iOS does not always make file extensions visible by default. In this guide, you’ll learn how to view and change file extensions using both the built-in Files app and third-party file manager apps.

How to View File Extensions in the Files App on iPhone

You can use the built-in Files app (available on iOS 11 and later) to check file extensions.

Steps:

1. Open the Files app on your iPhone or iPad.
2. If your file is not already in Files, use the Share option from another app and save it to Files.
3. Locate the file you want to inspect.
4. Tap and hold (long press) the file.
5. From the menu, select Get Info.

What You’ll See:

The file information screen will display:

• Full file name (including extension)
• File type
• File size
• Storage location
• Created and modified dates
• Tags and other metadata

How to Change File Extensions in the Files App

You can also rename files and manually change their extensions directly in the Files app.

Steps:

1. Open the Files app.
2. Navigate to the file you want to edit.
3. Tap and hold the file.
4. Select Rename from the menu.
5. Delete the current extension and enter a new one (e.g., change .png to .jpg).
6. Tap Done to confirm.

Important Notes:

• This method does not work for all file types.
• Changing a file extension does not convert the file format—it only renames it. Some files may become unusable if changed incorrectly.

Best Apps to Edit File Extensions on iPhone

If the Files app doesn’t support the file type you’re working with, you can use a third-party file manager.

Recommended Apps:

• Documents by Readdle
• FileMaster

These apps provide more advanced file management features, including easier file renaming and extension editing.

How to Change File Extensions Using Documents App

The Documents app is one of the most popular file managers for iOS.

Steps:

1. Open the Documents app.
2. Navigate to the folder where your file is stored.
3. Tap on the file name to rename it.
4. Move the cursor to the file extension.
5. Edit the extension as needed.

This method is often more flexible and user-friendly compared to the native Files app.

Final Thoughts

File extensions play a critical role in identifying and opening files on your device. While iOS limits direct visibility and editing in some cases, you can still manage file extensions effectively using the built-in Files app or third-party tools.

For advanced file handling, using apps like Documents can save time and provide more control over your files.