For an ordinary ZIP, open Apple’s Files app, find the archive, and tap it. Files creates a folder containing its contents. You do not need to download another app just to try opening a standard ZIP.
Your iPhone already includes a useful starting point for ZIP files. Try the built-in Files app first. If your download uses another format or an unsupported type of password protection, choose an archive app that supports it.
Unzip with Apple’s Files app
- Save the archive to Files.
If you received a ZIP in Mail or downloaded it in Safari, use Save to Files when needed. Choose a location such as Downloads, On My iPhone, or iCloud Drive.
- Find the ZIP.
Open Files and browse to the folder where you saved it. You can search for its filename if you do not remember the location.
- Tap the ZIP to extract it.
Apple’s instructions say to tap the ZIP. Files creates a folder containing the extracted files. Depending on your iOS version, touching and holding the archive may also offer Uncompress.
- Open the new folder.
Tap the folder to see its contents. Extraction does not guarantee that every file inside can be opened on iPhone; you still need an app that supports each file type.
What about the Files app?
For a .rar or .7z file, or a protected ZIP that Files cannot extract, use an archive app such as Zip Opener. It lists ZIP, RAR, and 7z extraction and password support for ZIP and RAR. Some features are available through in-app purchases.
If the archive won’t open
You cannot find your download.
Check the Downloads folder in Files and the download location configured in Safari. A file may be in iCloud Drive rather than On My iPhone.
Tapping the archive does nothing useful.
Check the full filename extension, wait for the download to finish, and make sure you have enough free storage. Use the relevant RAR, 7z, or protected ZIP guide if the archive needs another app.
Meet your next archive opener.
Extract ZIP, RAR, and 7z. Work with protected ZIP and RAR archives when you have their passwords.
Download on theApp StoreFree download. In-app purchases. iOS 15 or later.
Common questions
Do I need to pay to unzip an ordinary ZIP on iPhone?
You can first try the built-in Files app without buying an archive app. Additional archive formats or features may require a separate app.
Can Files create ZIP files too?
Yes. In Files, select the items you want to compress and choose Compress from the More menu. Apple provides the full steps in the source linked below.
Sources & further help
Product capabilities: Zip Opener on the App Store. Built-in ZIP steps: Apple’s guide to creating and opening ZIP files. Menu labels can vary with iOS and app versions. For help with an error, visit support.