In the date and time settings I have chosen ISO notation (YYYYY-MM-DD, e.g 2026-01-31).
However, this setting seems to be ignored. Both Files and the file picker dialogs insist on displaying the date in long form, e.g. "30 January 2026 at 10:35", which takes up far too much space.
How can I get a more compact date/time format in FIles and file pickers in iPadOS 26.2.1?
iPad Pro, iPadOS 26
Be aware that, at the time of writing, iPadOS 26.3 is current.
To the best of my knowledge, the iPad Files App does not support display of dates in short format - no matter what date format has been selected in your iPad's Language & Region / Date Format settings. There are similarly no associated App-specific settings for the Files App. As such, the Files App appears to always show date and time in long-form.
Whether this limitation is an omission, or is by design, is unknown.
Apple does invite submission of Feature Requests via its Product Feedback portal. If you would like to see specific capabilities, features or settings in a future release of iPadOS, this would be the most appropriate channel through which to communicate your request to Apple:
While you are unlikely to receive an individual reply, it is understood that all submissions are logged, analysed and forwarded to the appropriate team(s) at Apple.
Be aware that, at the time of writing, iPadOS 26.3 is current.
To the best of my knowledge, the iPad Files App does not support display of dates in short format - no matter what date format has been selected in your iPad's Language & Region / Date Format settings. There are similarly no associated App-specific settings for the Files App. As such, the Files App appears to always show date and time in long-form.
Whether this limitation is an omission, or is by design, is unknown.
Apple does invite submission of Feature Requests via its Product Feedback portal. If you would like to see specific capabilities, features or settings in a future release of iPadOS, this would be the most appropriate channel through which to communicate your request to Apple:
While you are unlikely to receive an individual reply, it is understood that all submissions are logged, analysed and forwarded to the appropriate team(s) at Apple.
You're very welcome.
Yes, the available software versions from which you can choose from the feedback portal often lag behind the current version. When submitting bug reports or issues, it is often recommended that you include your device details (including the currently installed software version) within the body-text of the submission.
I offered the prompt to update your iPad as you might not be aware of the latest release - that includes essential security updates.
Thanks, I have submitted the issue as you suggested. At present, iPadOS 26.2.1 is the highest version one can select from the list on the Feedback page. ;-)
Thanks for the reminder! Updating now.
You are most welcome. It's my pleasure to help where I can.
How can I get a more compact date format in FIles and file pickers in iPadOS 26.2.1?
