Mass delete files in “on my iphone” section

Is there a way, or an app, to delete thousands of files in the “on my iphone” storage section? I used to save so much stuff there instead of my photo app and then book downloads, and now I want it all gone. But there are so many photos and files. I’ve tried selecting all of them at once, but it doesn’t work.


On my old iPhone 11, I once removed the on my iphone section and it disappeared. It didn’t come back and my storage was cleared. But then I got a new phone and the On My Iphone section came back, with ALL the files I thought bad been deleted when I removed the section on my 11. Anyways, it’s just it’d take forever…and I mean FOREVER…to manually select these files and delete them. And the select all option isn’t working. Is there any way to fix this?

Posted on Jul 5, 2025 2:22 AM

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3 replies

Jul 5, 2025 7:35 AM in response to Marygp2007

I'll do my best to clarify everything about the Downloads folder and the Files app. The pictorial representation itself effectively resolves any doubts.


  1. File and Folder Concept on iPhone and iPad: Unlike traditional computers, iPhones and iPads do not have a system-wide file and folder structure accessible to users. Instead, each app manages its files in a sandboxed environment, meaning files are generally stored within the app that created or downloaded them. However, with iOS 11 and later, Apple introduced the Files app, which provides a more centralized way to manage files.
  2. Enabling iCloud Drive: To access iCloud Drive and its Downloads folder, you must enable iCloud Drive in:
    1. Settings → [Your Name] → iCloud → iCloud Drive (Toggle ON).
    2. Once enabled, iCloud Drive will appear in the Files app, where you can find the Downloads folder.
  3. The Files App and the Downloads Folder:
    1. The Files app acts as a file manager for iCloud Drive and local storage. It allows users to browse, organize, and access files stored in iCloud Drive, on-device storage, or third-party cloud services (Google Drive, Dropbox, etc.).
    2. Downloads folder exists under iCloud Drive and, if enabled, on On My iPhone/iPad for locally stored downloads.
    3. If you have accidentally removed the Downloads folder from the favorites by swiping left then it may not appear in the Browse tab initially.
    4. To locate it, you need to tap iCloud Drive or On My iPhone/iPad in the Files app. See the *** below
  4. You can check where Safari saves downloads in: See the *** below
    1. Settings → Safari → Downloads (Choose between iCloud Drive or On My iPhone/iPad).


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Mass delete files in “on my iphone” section

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