In addition to a handy file manager, the built-in Files app on iPhone and iPad can scan documents directly and save them to your device or iCloud. This makes it super handy when you need to have a digital version of a business card, lease, doctor’s note, white papers, and more. In this quick guide, I’ll show you how to scan documents on your iPhone using the Files app.
How to scan a document directly from the Files app on iPhone
One technique that’s been around for a long time is to use the built-in Notes app and scan documents right into it. But I prefer to use the Files app because it makes it easily accessible even in third-party apps like WhatsApp, email, etc. So I can scan a document, it is saved in the Files app on the device or to iCloud as a PDF and I can attach it to any chat app, email, AirDrop, etc.
- Open the Files app and click Browse.
- Now decide where you want to save the scanned documents.
You can choose On My iPhone, iCloud Drive, etc. Alternatively, you can also create a new folder or select an existing one. - Tap the More icon (three dots inside the circle) in the upper right corner.
- Select Scan Documents.
- Point iPhone at a physical document and press the shutter button.
At the top, you can enable flash, set color filters, and enable auto shutter, which automatically clicks the image when a document is detected. - Drag closer to the corners to customize and click Done when satisfied.
- When finished, click Save.
- Optional: Press the shutter button to scan other documents.
A digital copy of the document is now saved in the Files application.
If you need more help, such as moving files, compressing them to a zip file, and more, check out our in-depth guide to using the Files app.
This is how you can use the iPhone or iPad Files app to scan and store documents. Hope this quick guide was helpful. If you want something more, take a look at our list of the best document scanning apps for iPhone and iPad. I especially love Microsoft Lens. I used it before switching to the iOS Files app.
