On an iPhone, downloads generally go to different locations depending on the file type and the app used to download them. Here is a detailed breakdown of where you can find your downloads:
- Files downloaded from Safari (or most other files): These are typically saved in the "Downloads" folder within the Files app. To find these:
- Open the Files app (blue folder icon).
- Tap the Browse tab.
- Go to On My iPhone or iCloud Drive and then tap the Downloads folder.
- You can also use the search bar within the Files app to find specific files.
- Photos and videos downloaded: These usually go to the Photos app under Recents.
- Downloaded PDFs: Also typically saved in the Files app in the Downloads folder, and can be found by searching for ".pdf" in Files.
- Downloaded music: Found in the Music app under the Library > Downloaded section.
- Other apps: Files downloaded from apps like Mail or Messages might be saved in the Files app or within the app's own folder.
If you have changed Safari's download location, files may also be found in iCloud Drive or another custom folder in the Files app. For quick access, the Files app is your primary tool for managing and finding most types of downloaded files on an iPhone. This system centralizes downloads mostly into the Files app, but media such as images and music go to their respective apps for easier access. This information is current as of mid-2025 and reflects the latest iOS file management behavior.
