How to Rename iCloud Drive Files and Folders

Despite its weaknesses, iCloud Drive remains the most convenient way to back up and sync files within the Apple ecosystem. But if it's not managed, it can turn into a group of random file names generated by Safari downloads and other programs. That's why renaming files and folders can often be crucial.

Renaming iCloud Drive files and folders on the Mac and PC does not require anything special from you. However, the process can confuse you when you use your iPhone or iPad.

In addition, the iCloud Drive web application on iCloud.com also makes the process of changing the name of the elements quite unintuitive. Let's see how you can perform this otherwise simple task without hassle on any device.

Note: iCloud Drive will prevent you from renaming certain folders (Pages, Keynote, Shortcuts, etc.) located in the root / home screen of iCloud Drive, as they are used by native Apple applications to record files.

Rename files and folders on iPhone

With the introduction of iOS 11, Apple 's got rid of the iCloud Drive application and integrated it into the Files application. With the fast-forwarding iOS 13, the Files application is more refined than ever with a flurry of new features, allowing you to easily manage iCloud Drive and other storage services in the cloud. But where is the ability to rename files and folders? That's where Haptic Touch comes in.

Start by pressing and holding the file or folder you want to rename. After a few seconds, you will receive a haptic tactile feedback, followed by a pop-up menu. Then press Rename.

All you should do then is to insert a new name for the file or folder. Tap Done to finish. Your changes will be automatically saved and synchronized with the rest of your devices.

Renaming files and folders on iPad

Renaming iCloud Drive files and folders on an iPad under iPadOS is the same as iPhone. Long-press an iCloud Drive file or folder through the Files application, and then tap Rename on the shortcut menu. After changing the file name, tap Done.

If you use the columns view in the Files application, there is another way to rename the files. With the file selected, just tap the three-dot icon, and then tap Rename.

Rename files and folders on Mac

On the Mac, renaming an iCloud Drive file or folder does not require you to do anything extraordinary. Open the Finder, and then click iCloud Drive in the left navigation pane.

Then, right-click the file or folder that you want to rename, and then click Rename. Make your changes and press Enter.

Rename files and folders on Windows

Windows allows you to access iCloud Drive through the File Explorer, provided you have iCloud for Windows installed. Otherwise, you have two ways to get it: using the downloadable installer program from the Apple website or by installing the application directly via Microsoft Store.

Although both versions are mostly similar, I recommend that you obtain the Microsoft Store version because it offers synchronization capabilities that are superior to those of Microsoft's OneDrive cloud storage service. In addition, it poses fewer problems compared to the normal download version.

With iCloud for Windows installed and the iCloud drive enabled, click the iCloud icon on the taskbar, and then click Open iCloud Drive. This should lead you automatically to the location of iCloud Drive.

To rename a file or folder, right-click the item, and then click Rename. Make the changes and press Enter. Your changes will be synchronized immediately.

Tip: To rename multiple files, select them (Ctrl + click), then right-click and select Rename. Insert a name, press Enter. The selected files will be renamed in numerical order.

Rename files and folders on iCloud.com

Renaming is very easy on iCloud.com, but only if you know how to do it. Click the file or folder that you want to rename. Place the cursor on the selected item. A small icon Get information in the form of i appears. Click on it.

On the floating box that appears, type a file name in the box at the top, and then press Enter. And that's all.

Note: When you rename files, you will see file extensions prominently. However, you can not modify or modify them.

Name change

Renaming files and folders is important from a storage management perspective on iCloud Drive, but it is also very useful before you share items with others. Let's hope that the above instructions have helped you and that you do not have to deal with weird file names from now on.

Then: Google Drive is a great alternative to iCloud. Find out how they compare in this in-depth comparison.