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Fix OneDrive Showing Live Folder Instead of Documents in Excel iOS
Question details
Users accessing OneDrive through Excel and Word for iOS observe that their standard 'Documents' folder has been replaced by a folder named 'Live' or 'Live folders'.
- Product
- Microsoft Excel and Word for iOS
- Device & OS
- iOS
- Scenario
- Browsing, opening, and saving files to OneDrive directly within the Excel or Word mobile apps.
- Observed behavior
- A folder labeled 'Live' or 'Live folders' is displayed instead of the standard 'Documents' folder, though file access remains unaffected.
Ensure your iOS device has an active internet connection and that all recent file changes are fully synced to OneDrive before signing out of your Microsoft account.
Use the Live Folder as the Standard Documents Directory
Since this is purely a display change introduced by an update, the most reliable approach is to continue using the Live folder as normal.
Testing indicates that the 'Live' folder is simply an updated display name for the traditional 'Documents' folder. It does not affect file storage, syncing functionality, or your ability to save new documents to your cloud storage.
Launch Excel or Word on your iOS device.
Go to the 'Open' tab and tap on your connected OneDrive account.
Tap on the 'Live' or 'Live folders' directory to view, manage, and save your files just as you did with the Documents folder.
Refresh Account Login and Update iOS Apps
Signing out and updating the Microsoft apps can sometimes reset the interface and restore the original folder names.
Submit User Feedback to Microsoft
If the Live folder naming convention disrupts your workflow, you can officially request Microsoft to revert the change.
Manage Your Cloud Files Seamlessly with WPS Office
If sudden interface changes in Microsoft Office are frustrating, WPS Office offers a stable, lightweight, and user-friendly alternative. Enjoy consistent cloud storage management on iOS without unexpected folder renaming.
- 1. Download the app: Download WPS Office for free from the Apple App Store.
- 2. Access cloud services: Open the app and navigate to the 'Cloud' or 'Open' tab at the bottom.
- 3. Connect your OneDrive: Tap 'Add Cloud Storage', select OneDrive, and log in to access your files effortlessly with standard folder names.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the Live folder delete or corrupt my existing documents?
No. The Live folder is simply an updated display name for your existing Documents directory. Your files remain safe and fully accessible.
Why does my iPad show 'Documents' but my iPhone shows 'Live folders'?
Different account experiences or device displays are commonly caused by staggered rollouts of OneDrive mobile app updates. Not all accounts or devices receive the interface change simultaneously.
Can I manually rename the Live folder back to Documents on my iOS device?
Currently, Microsoft Excel and Word for iOS do not provide an option to manually rename this default cloud directory from within the apps. The naming is controlled by the app's internal connection to OneDrive.
