How can I use the Files app with cellular data on my iPhone?

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Level 1

4 points

How can I use the Files app with cellular data on my iPhone?

I have a big mobile data bundle and I want to use the Files app (and my files in the Numbers app) without WiFi. I can’t get this to work. When I don’t have a wifi connection I get error messages that things can’t be downloaded, I’m now trying to email a file and I’m getting the message “couldn’t connect, you can’t manage settings offline”. I WANT to use mobile data but I can’t get it to work… Mobile data is turned on for Files, numbers, system settings and system services. How do I use my files and numbers anywhere??

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

iPhone 13, iOS 18

Posted on May 20, 2025 2:30 AM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

Camelot

Level 9

59,157 points

May 20, 2025 10:44 AM in response to nona64

Not in the list of apps.

The list of apps is, by default, sorted by size (which apps are using the most data). There's a toggle at the top to switch to alphabetical, if that's what you want.

But that's not what I'm talking about. BELOW the list of apps in the main Cellular screen is an option for iCloud Drive:

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Answer 2

nona64 Author

Level 1

4 points

May 21, 2025 11:13 AM in response to Camelot

Thanks on both accounts! Icloud drive was not turned on, turning it on made me able to use cellular data to at least email the file, which got me the error yesterday, so I’m assuming this fixes my issue.

and thank you for showing me the toggle to sort by name! This is an absolute gamechanger. Thanks!

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Answer 3

Camelot

Level 9

59,157 points

May 20, 2025 10:23 AM in response to nona64

Did you check iCloud Drive is enabled for cellular data?

Settings -> Cellular -> iCloud Drive

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Answer 4

nona64 Author

Level 1

4 points

May 20, 2025 10:32 AM in response to Camelot

There is no option “iCloud Drive” in my list. Also, I’m finding this in “mobile data” not in “cellular”. Also, why on earth is the list not alfabetical…

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