Can't play video from 'Files' on iOS18. 'Files' app is dead?

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Level 1

12 points

Can't play video from 'Files' on iOS18. 'Files' app is dead?

After iOS18 was installed I've downloaded video file from internet via 'Safary' to 'Downloads' in 'Files'.

Same as was doing it previously.

After trying to play it 'Files' app freeze on a screen showing video's name in the center of the screen without showing any buttons allowing it to be directed to VLC for playback. No any other buttons present either. Can't even get one step back to 'File' home screen.

Removing app from multitask and relaunching it doesn't heal the problem.

Even after phone's full reboot 'Files' app still in the same state. After starting it after reboot same freeze screen appears.

I've removed video file via PC, but phone's 'Files' app remains in the freeze state.

I'm frustrated. Any suggestions?

Phone is iPhone 15 Pro Max, iOS 18.0 (sure =)).

iPhone 15 Pro Max, iOS 18

Posted on Sep 17, 2024 10:15 AM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

MRGARGSIR

Level 1

17 points

Sep 18, 2024 12:09 AM in response to nVadim

I can suggest you a solution.

Go to iPhone general setting> iPhone storage and find files app.

Offload app and activate it again. If it’s working , all good.

if it’s not working

Delete the file app and install it back from App Store.

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Answer 2

Sep 19, 2024 11:42 AM in response to nVadim

Had the same issue, for me what fixed it was to rename the videos and remove .download that seems to be added as an extension for downloaded videos

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Answer 3

Sep 25, 2024 6:31 AM in response to nVadim

Workarounds:

-Try putting another document like a pdf in the same folder, and side swipe from the frozen video name screen.

- open the VLC app directly and open your video through VLC local files menu

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Answer 4

Sep 25, 2024 6:55 AM in response to nVadim

I’m trying to figure this out too and found your note. The only way around it at the moment ie found is if you highlight the video file and long press and click share and there should be an option for it to share to VLC. From there it worked for me

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Answer 5

Oct 12, 2024 10:53 AM in response to danbasson

Yes! This work around also works for me!

Long press on the desired file-Select "Share"-Select "VLC"

Thank you!

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Answer 6

azaz8178

Level 1

8 points

Sep 17, 2024 11:43 PM in response to nVadim

I have exactly the same problem after I updated to iOS 18 and I wonder why no one is talking about it while it is considered a big problem.

I use an external disk (Flash Drive) that I put in my iPhone and watch videos on it from the files app and this problem made me regret that I updated to iOS 18

I hope this problem will be resolved as soon as possible.

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