Apple has introduced a new feature in iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 that allows power users to format external drives directly from their iPhones and iPads. This advancement may not be significant for all users, but it demonstrates how Apple has evolved from its original design principles for these devices.
In the beta version of iPadOS 18, artist and developer Kaleb Cadle discovered that users can now format external drives in APFS, ExFat, and MS-DOS (FAT) formats directly from the Files app. This is a departure from the past, where such tasks had to be done using Disk Utility on a Mac. Despite this progress, some features, like Restore and First Aid, are still missing from the mobile devices.
The inclusion of this feature reflects a shift in Apple’s approach towards its devices. Initially, iPhones and iPads were designed to be simple and intuitive, with limited access to file systems. However, with the introduction of the Files app and now the ability to format drives, Apple is catering to power users who require more functionality from their devices.
This development marks a significant departure from the original vision of the iPhone and iPad as devices that would streamline work processes and eliminate the need for traditional desktop features. The fact that users can now format external drives on their mobile devices suggests that Apple is increasingly embracing the demands of power users who value versatility and control over their devices.
While this feature may not be widely used by the average consumer, it is a clear indication that Apple is listening to the needs of its more tech-savvy users. The evolution of the iPhone and iPad from simple, closed systems to more versatile and functional devices demonstrates Apple’s commitment to staying relevant in an increasingly competitive market.
As technology continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Apple further adapts its devices to meet the changing needs of its users. The inclusion of features like the ability to format external drives in iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 is just one example of how Apple is responding to the demands of power users and continuing to push the boundaries of what its devices can do.
