External drives · Using drives with PCs, iPads and other Macs
Can I use the same external drive with my iPad or iPhone?
Short answer: Yes, on iPads and iPhones with USB-C (or an adapter): the drive appears in the Files app. exFAT is safest for sharing between devices. Bus-powered drives may need a powered hub, and things Storage Studio moved only work on the Mac.
Yes, with an iPad or iPhone that has a USB-C port (or an adapter for older models). Drives appear in the Files app, where you can copy files on and off. exFAT is the safest choice for a drive you share between a Mac, an iPad and other devices; iPadOS also reads common Mac formats.
Limits to know:
- A bus-powered drive may need more power than an iPhone supplies; a powered hub helps.
- Encrypted Mac drives may not open on an iPad.
- An iPad can't run apps or open folders Storage Studio moved — those shortcuts only work on the Mac.
Keep your Storage Studio drive for the Mac and use a separate drive or volume for sharing.