Files app adds read-only NTFS support in iPadOS 15

Apple's forthcoming iPadOS 15 will provide partial support for the NTFS format, bringing the mobile operating system in line with macOS.

Files on iPadOS is unable to move, modify or write files in the format typically used by Windows machines, though users can now read files from a connected NTFS drive as they would on Mac.

While utility is limited, iPad owners who update to the latest operating system version this fall will be able to view read-only files instead of a blank disk when NTFS-formatted media is connected to the tablet.

YouTube channel Fjordstrom discovered the file management capability last week.

In addition to NTFS support, Files gets a new progress indicator when moving or copying files. Tapping on the pie-shaped graphic opens a larger progress bar that includes detailed information on data transferred, data remaining and time remaining.

Finally, Fjordstrom notes users can select multiple files at once by using a click-and-drag gesture on a connected trackpad.

Apple unveiled iPadOS 15 at its Worldwide Developers Conference last week, with the new OS sporting an updated user interface with expanded widget options, Quick Note feature, refined multitasking and more. A beta version of iPadOS 15 is now available to developers ahead of an expected public release this fall.

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