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How to Create or Open ZIP Files on iPhone or iPad

Compress files into a ZIP archive or extract files from one.

Quick Answer

In Files, touch and hold selected items and choose Compress; tap or hold a ZIP file to extract its contents.

Step by Step

  1. Open the relevant Apple app or Settings section on the iPhone or iPad.
  2. In Files, touch and hold selected items and choose Compress; tap or hold a ZIP file to extract its contents.
  3. Review the result before deleting data, removing an account, or changing synchronization settings.
  4. For important data, confirm a current backup exists before making a major storage, account, or device change.

If That Doesn't Work

  • Apple occasionally moves settings between iOS/iPadOS versions, so exact menu wording can differ by software version.
  • iCloud synchronization is not the same as a separate backup of every item; deleting synchronized content can propagate to other devices.