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Delete files from my iPhone files app

I cannot delete items from my iPhone files app. When I highlight or touch the item I just get a "COPY" or other option, not the contextual list the I could use to choose Delete


Posted on Jun 10, 2023 3:43 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jun 10, 2023 3:51 PM

There’s several different ways you can try to fix this:

  • Restart your iPhone

Most of the time, a simple restart can fix a problem.

  • Update your iPhone’s software

Make sure your iPhone is running the latest version of iOS. Software updates often include bug fixes.


If neither of those work, there is probably a good reason it’s restricting you from deleting it.


As a last resort, you can reset all settings on your iPhone. Note that this will not erase your data, but it will reset your preferences. To do this, go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset All Settings. Enter your passcode when prompted and confirm the reset. This will fix any setting-related problems restricting you from deleting items, but keep in mind it will reset all other preferences you have set.

2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jun 10, 2023 3:51 PM in response to Witchcliffe

There’s several different ways you can try to fix this:

  • Restart your iPhone

Most of the time, a simple restart can fix a problem.

  • Update your iPhone’s software

Make sure your iPhone is running the latest version of iOS. Software updates often include bug fixes.


If neither of those work, there is probably a good reason it’s restricting you from deleting it.


As a last resort, you can reset all settings on your iPhone. Note that this will not erase your data, but it will reset your preferences. To do this, go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset All Settings. Enter your passcode when prompted and confirm the reset. This will fix any setting-related problems restricting you from deleting items, but keep in mind it will reset all other preferences you have set.

Jun 10, 2023 3:48 PM in response to Witchcliffe

Witchcliffe Said:

"Delete files from my iPhone files app: I cannot delete items from my iPhone files app. When I highlight or touch the item I just get a "COPY" or other option, not the contextual list the I could use to choose Delete"

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Deleting a File in the Files App:

Hold you Finder down on it, and then press "Delete" at the bottom of the popup menu (in red text).

Delete files from my iPhone files app

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