File Format & Compatibility

How to Open DOCX Files in Microsoft Word on an iPhone

Kushani Nimanthika Oct 1, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to know how to properly open, view, and print DOCX files using the Microsoft Word app on an iPhone.

How to Open DOCX Files in Microsoft Word on an iPhone

Product: Microsoft Word for iOS
Device & OS: iOS
Scenario: Attempting to open and view a received or downloaded DOCX document on an iPhone.
Observed behavior: The DOCX file is automatically opening in Adobe Acrobat or another third-party application instead of Microsoft Word.

Before you start

Ensure that you have the latest version of the Microsoft Word app installed from the Apple App Store and that you are signed in to your account.

Solution 1Recommended

Use the iOS Share Sheet to Route the File to Word

Manually select Microsoft Word from the iOS share options to guarantee the DOCX file opens in the correct application.

Because iOS does not have a traditional default app settings menu for document types, files may sometimes open in the last installed compatible app (like Adobe Acrobat). Using the Share Sheet forces iOS to open the document in your preferred app.

Locate the document

Find the DOCX file in your email app, the native Files app, or your cloud storage like OneDrive.

Open the Share Sheet

Tap on the file to open the quick preview, then tap the 'Share' icon (a square with an upward-pointing arrow) located at the bottom or top of the screen.

Select Microsoft Word

Scroll horizontally through the row of app icons and tap on 'Word'. If it is not visible, tap the 'More' icon (three dots) at the end of the row, find Word in the list, and select it.

Use the iOS Share Sheet to Route the File to Word

File Sources: The exact location of the Share icon might vary slightly depending on whether you are opening the file from Mail, Safari, or a third-party application.

Solution 2

Print or Export the DOCX File in Word

Use the built-in features of Word for iOS to print the document via AirPrint or send a copy to another application.

Open DOCX Files Easily

Use WPS Office to Open and Edit DOCX Files on iPhone

WPS Office is a powerful and free document editor for iOS. You can effortlessly open, read, edit, and print DOCX files on your iPhone, avoiding default app conflicts and expensive subscriptions.

1. Install the app: Download and install WPS Office from the Apple App Store.
2. Locate your file: Find your DOCX file on your iPhone, whether it is in the Files app, Mail, or a cloud drive.
3. Share to WPS: Tap the file to preview it, then tap the standard iOS Share icon.
4. Open and edit: Select WPS Office from the app list to instantly open, edit, or print your document.

100% compatible with Microsoft Word formats, including DOCX, DOC, and ODT.Lightweight and completely free to download and use on all iOS devices.All-in-one suite that handles Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and PDF files seamlessly.Familiar user interface makes reading and editing documents highly intuitive.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do my DOCX files automatically open in Adobe Acrobat on my iPhone?

iOS relies on the Share Sheet to route files and often defaults to the last used compatible app, or whichever app claimed the file extension during installation. You must manually route it to Word using the Share menu to change this behavior.

Can I set Microsoft Word as the permanent default app for DOCX files on iPhone?

Unlike Android or Windows, iOS does not have a traditional 'default apps' setting for specific file extensions like DOCX. You will generally need to use the Share menu to select your preferred app, though iOS may prioritize it in the Share menu over time.

How do I print a DOCX file directly from my iPhone?

Once the document is open in Microsoft Word or WPS Office, tap the file menu or three-dot icon, select Print, and choose an AirPrint-enabled printer that is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your iPhone.

Document & File Issues