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Apple Introduces Drive Formatting Feature in iOS 18 and iPadOS 18
Apple has announced a new feature that allows users to format external drives in iOS 18 and iPadOS 18. While this feature may not be widely used by all users, it marks a significant departure from Apple’s original design principles for the iPhone and iPad.
The discovery of this feature was made by artist and developer Kaleb Cadle, who shared his findings on his Substack newsletter ByteBits. The formatting options include APFS, ExFat, and MS-DOS (FAT), with APFS offering case-sensitive and encrypted options.
In the past, users would have to use Disk Utility on a Mac to format external drives, but now, with the inclusion of this feature in iOS 18 and iPadOS 18, it can be done directly on an iPhone or iPad. While some features like Restore and First Aid are still missing, the move towards integrating desktop-like functionalities into mobile devices is evident.
The Evolution of Apple’s Approach
Early iPhone and iPad models did not have access to file systems, as Apple aimed to simplify the user experience. The introduction of the Files app was a significant shift towards a more traditional file management system, bridging the gap between iOS devices and Mac computers.
Over the years, Apple has gradually added features that were once exclusive to Macs, catering to power users who require more functionality. The ability to format external drives directly from an iPhone or iPad is a testament to Apple’s commitment to providing a seamless user experience across all its devices.
While some users may find these additions unnecessary, they reflect Apple’s willingness to adapt and evolve its products to meet the changing needs of its user base. The line between mobile and desktop computing continues to blur, offering users more flexibility and control over their devices.
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