OneDrive File Issues

How to Fix OneDrive Error Uploading Files on iOS 11

Phi Hung Vo Oct 19, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user encounters an "Error uploading files. Try again later" message when attempting to upload documents or media to OneDrive on an iOS 11 device.

How to Fix OneDrive Error Uploading Files on iOS 11

Product: OneDrive
Device & OS: iOS 11
Scenario: Uploading local documents, photos, or media files to Microsoft OneDrive cloud storage from an older Apple device.
Observed behavior: The file upload fails immediately or gets stuck, returning an error notification that prevents the files from successfully syncing to the cloud.

Before you start

Verify that your iPhone or iPad is connected to a stable Wi-Fi or cellular network, and ensure your device has sufficient battery life before proceeding.

Solution 1Recommended

Retry Upload and Check Server Status

This error is frequently caused by a temporary cloud service outage that may have already been resolved.

Microsoft OneDrive occasionally undergoes routine maintenance or experiences unexpected server outages. During these periods, upload requests may be temporarily blocked.

Retry the upload

Open the OneDrive app, navigate to your targeted upload folder, and tap the upload button to try syncing the file again.

Verify service health

If the upload still fails, open your mobile browser and visit the official Microsoft Service Health status page to check if OneDrive is experiencing a known outage.

Temporary Outages: If Microsoft reports an active outage, you simply need to wait until the cloud service is fully restored.

Solution 2

Restart the App and Your Device

Restarting clears temporary software glitches that might be blocking the network connection.

Solution 3

Update the OneDrive App

Outdated versions of the OneDrive app can lose compatibility with Microsoft servers, leading to upload failures.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office for Reliable File Management and Cloud Sync

If you frequently experience sync issues with Microsoft apps or OneDrive, WPS Office serves as an excellent, free alternative. It is highly optimized for mobile devices, features a built-in cloud service (WPS Cloud), and remains fully compatible with Microsoft Office formats.

1. Download WPS Office: Visit the App Store, search for WPS Office, and download the free application.
2. Sign In to WPS Cloud: Launch the app and create a free account to access 1GB of built-in cloud storage.
3. Save and Sync: Create or open a document and enable Auto-Save to sync your files directly to WPS Cloud without upload errors.

Seamlessly compatible with Microsoft Office formats (.docx, .xlsx, .pptx)Built-in WPS Cloud storage for reliable file syncing and mobile backupsLightweight architecture that runs smoothly even on older iOS devicesEdit, manage, and share documents effortlessly on the go

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does OneDrive keep saying 'Try again later' on my iPhone?

This message usually indicates a communication breakdown between the OneDrive app and Microsoft's servers. It can be triggered by server outages, a weak Wi-Fi/cellular connection, or a temporary cache error within the app.

Can I still upload files to OneDrive if my device is stuck on iOS 11?

While basic functions might initially work, older iOS versions eventually lose support for the latest app updates. If you cannot update iOS past version 11, you may experience ongoing upload bugs. Using a lightweight alternative or accessing OneDrive via a web browser can bypass this.

Will clearing the app cache fix the upload error?

Yes, clearing temporary data can resolve upload loops. On iOS, you can reset the app by opening the OneDrive app settings, tapping your profile, and selecting the option to clear cache, or simply by uninstalling and reinstalling the app.

Are my files safe if the upload fails in OneDrive?

Yes, the original local files on your iOS device remain safe. The error simply means the duplication process to the cloud was unsuccessful. Do not delete the local files until you can confirm they have successfully synced online.

Document & File Issues