How to Scan Documents Directly to iCloud Drive on iPhone

Mar. 5, 2021

What Finder is to macOS, Files is for iOS. The iOS stock file manager has slowly but steadily added a range of user-friendly features including thesuper handy folder-sharing, the ability tocompress/extract ZIP files, and the built-in document scanner for efficient file management. Speaking of document management, you can scan documents directly to iCloud Drive, Google Drive, Dropbox orother cloud storage servicesusing the Files app on your iPhone or iPad for enhanced security and universal accessibility. Let me help you get started with this neat file management feature!

Scan Documents Directly to iCloud Drive / Dropbox / Google Drive on iPhone and iPad

iCloud Drive is deeply integrated with the Files app so that you can store all of your documents seamlessly. Besides, the stockfile manageralso supports other major cloud storage services. It even lets you keep your files and docs locally. So, depending on your needs, you can choose the desired storage location to save your scanned docs there.

Just in case you want to store your docs in other cloud storage service, be sure you have enabled it. Simply head over to theLocations sectionin the Files app and tap on the three dots at the top right. Next, chooseEdit on the menu.Then,turn on the togglefor the cloud storage app.

First off, we are going to select the desired location to save the scanned documents.

2. Now, tap on theBrowse tabat the bottom. Then, tap on the“back” buttonat the top left corner of the screen.

3. Next up, select the preferred storage location. As I said above, you have the option to chooseiCloud Driveand other supported cloud storage service. Besides, you can also choose to selectOn My iPhone/iPadto save the scanned document locally.

After you have chosen the specific location, you can get started with the scanning as usual.

4. Tap on thethree dotsat the top right corner of the screen.

5. Now, select theScan Documentsoption.

6. Next, go ahead and scan the document as usual. Notably, there is also an option to use theauto-capture feature. To do so, bring your document into the viewfinder or use the shutter button to snap the scan. Besides, you can alsodrag the cornersto make your scan look better.

Note:During the scanning, you will get the option toKeep Scan or Retake. If you are happy with the scan, choose Keep Scan. But if you aren’t pleased, selectRetaketo go for the fresh take.

7. Once you have scanned the doc, make sure to tap onSave.

That’s it! Your scanned document will be saved in your desired location.

So, that’s how you can directly scan to iCloud Drive, Google Drive, Dropbox or local storage on your iOS or iPadOS device. If you want to access your docs from any device and also offer it an extra layer of safeguard, go for the cloud storage option. However, if you wish to keep your docs locally, select the “On My iPhone/iPad” option.

What do you have to say about the stock file manager and which are the new features that you have found appreciable? Do shoot your thoughts in the comments section below.

An old school bibliophile who turned a tech nerd out of obsession. When he is not digging into hacks and tracking down stories that are breaking the internet, you may find him reciting poems.