The files app is not showing my files
Does anyone know how to fix the Files app when it say unable to display documents due to a unknown error
iPhone 7
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User profile for user:
chris_g1
User level:
Community Specialist
Hi there, ariolac,
Thanks for stopping by the Apple Support Communities. After reading your post, I understand that you are having trouble accessing documents in the Files app. Specifically, when you try you receive an unknown error. I'm happy to help!
Based on what you've described, I'd recommend going through the following steps. Try each on its own, testing to see if the issue is resolved before moving on:
- Force close the Files app: How to force an app to close on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch - Apple Support and restart your device: Restart your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch - Apple Support.
- I know that the documents in question should be available locally on the phone itself, due to being in the "On My iPhone" folder, but I'd also suggest you see if the issue occurs on a different Wi-Fi network, or while connected to cellular data.
- Check for, and install any available updates: Update your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch - Apple Support.
- Backup your iPhone: How to back up your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch - Apple Support then reinstall the iOS software using the "Reinstall iOS" section of If you see the Connect to iTunes screen on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch - Apple Support. Even though the title of this article doesn't quite match the issue you're experiencing, we're only after the steps to reinstall iOS, which don't change regardless of the situation.
Have a good day.