File synchronization on iCloud Drive allows us to work from any device or from iCloud.com. Thanks to this integration, we can access our documents whenever we need them, but there’s more. Since iCloud lets us store far more data than can fit on our devices, it also automatically optimizes the available space by removing local copies of less frequently used files.
This is a truly remarkable feature, as it allows us to make the most of our local storage. When combined with the ability to download and keep certain documents always available, it’s a winning combination. Let’s explore how to ensure that specific files or folders remain permanently accessible on our devices.
What is the smart iCloud synchronization and how does it work?
iCloud Drive stores more information than most of our devices could physically handle. To manage this data, Apple’s systems have always worked under an intelligent model: the files we use most frequently remain downloaded locally, while the less frequently used ones are stored exclusively in the cloud.
This approach ensures that key files are available even offline. However, if our device has limited space or we need older files, we might face some surprises. This is where the new “Keep Downloaded” option comes in—a feature that lets us ensure certain files or folders are always stored on the device, updated to the latest version from iCloud servers, and ready to use at any time.
How to keep your files always downloaded?
Activating this option is incredibly straightforward. On any device running iOS 18, iPadOS 18, or macOS Sequoia, follow these steps:
- Open the Files app on iPhone or iPad, or the Finder on Mac.
- Locate the file or folder you want to keep always downloaded.
- On iPhone or iPad, press and hold the file or folder; on Mac, right-click it.
- Select the Keep Downloaded option.
After doing this, you’ll see a dark cloud icon next to the file, indicating that it will remain on the device regardless of available space.
With this simple feature, Apple provides a thoughtful solution that addresses our needs without compromising system efficiency. Knowing that certain files will always be available, no matter the circumstances, allows us to work efficiently wherever we are.
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