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How to Send a Copy of a File from the OneDrive iOS App
Question details
Users need a way to send an actual file copy from the OneDrive iOS app rather than just generating a sharing link.
- Product
- OneDrive iOS App
- Device & OS
- iOS
- Scenario
- Sharing documents natively through email, text message, or Outlook directly from a mobile device.
- Observed behavior
- When selecting a single file to share, the OneDrive iOS app only provides an option to send a cloud sharing link, omitting the 'Send a Copy' feature.
Ensure you have the corresponding document editing app (like Microsoft Word, Excel, or WPS Office) installed on your iOS device, as you will need it to bypass the link-only limitation.
Share a Copy Using the Native Office iOS App
Bypass the OneDrive app's sharing limitations by opening the file in its native application to access the standard copy-sharing features.
Since the OneDrive app defaults to link sharing for single files, routing the share request through the document's native viewing app restores the 'Send a Copy' functionality.
Open the OneDrive iOS app and navigate to the file you want to share.
Tap the file to view it, then select the option to open the file in the appropriate Office iOS app (e.g., Word, Excel, or PowerPoint).
Once the file is open in the Office app, tap the 'Share' icon usually located at the top right of the screen.
Scroll or look through the sharing menu and tap 'Send a Copy'.
Select how you want to send the file copy, such as via Apple Mail, text message (Messages), or Outlook.
Select Multiple Files to Trigger the Copy Option
A quick workaround utilizing iOS sharing behaviors to force the system into attaching physical files rather than a link.
Experience Seamless File Sharing with WPS Office
Frustrated by OneDrive's link-only sharing limitations? Switch to WPS Office. It's a highly compatible, free alternative that integrates flawlessly with your cloud drives, allowing you to easily send actual file copies without unnecessary workarounds.
- 1. Install WPS Office: Download WPS Office from the iOS App Store and launch the application.
- 2. Connect Your Cloud Drive: Go to the Cloud tab and link your OneDrive or other cloud storage accounts natively.
- 3. Share Files Directly: Open any document from your drive and tap Share to instantly send an actual file attachment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the OneDrive iOS app only send a sharing link instead of the actual file?
By default, the OneDrive app prioritizes generating secure sharing links for single files to encourage cloud collaboration and reduce email attachment sizes. However, a recent update or bug has seemingly hidden or removed the standard 'Send a Copy' option for many users.
Will the 'Send a Copy' option be restored in future OneDrive updates?
Many users have reported this missing feature. Microsoft actively monitors user feedback, so it is highly recommended to report the issue via the 'Help & Feedback' section in the OneDrive app to encourage developers to bring the feature back.
Does the multiple-file workaround work on all iOS versions?
The multiple-file workaround generally forces the iOS share sheet to attach physical files instead of links. However, its success can occasionally vary depending on your current iOS version and the specific build of the OneDrive app installed on your device.
