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OneDrive File Issues

How to Set a Default OneDrive View on iPhone or iPad

Partner EditorPartner Editor Sep 25, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to know if it is possible to configure a global default view (such as List view) for all folders in the OneDrive mobile app, rather than changing it individually for each folder.

How to Set a Default OneDrive Folder View on iPhone and iPad
Product
Microsoft OneDrive
Device & OS
iOS / iPadOS
Scenario
Organizing, browsing, and managing files within the OneDrive app on an iPhone or iPad.
Observed behavior
The OneDrive app defaults folders to a specific layout (like Tile view) and requires users to manually adjust the view for each folder individually, lacking a unified setting.
Before you start

Ensure your OneDrive app is updated to the latest version from the App Store, as interface options and user settings can change with recent updates.

Solution 1Recommended

Change Folder Views Manually in the OneDrive App

Since OneDrive does not currently support a global default view on mobile, you must change the layout from Tile to List manually for each folder.

By design, the OneDrive mobile application on both iOS and Android requires users to adjust the folder view on a per-folder basis. There is no unified setting to apply the List view across all folders simultaneously, even for large libraries.

1
Open the Target Folder

Launch the OneDrive app on your iPhone or iPad and navigate to the specific folder you wish to view.

2
Locate the View Icon

Look for the View icon at the top of your screen, which typically looks like a grid of squares (Tile view) or horizontal lines (List view).

3
Select List View

Tap the icon and choose 'List' from the available layout options to change the view for that specific folder.

Change Folder Views Manually in the OneDrive App
Submit Feature Feedback: As this is a highly requested feature, you can encourage its development by navigating to the OneDrive app settings, selecting 'Help & Feedback', and submitting a request for a global default view.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I set a default list view on the OneDrive website?

Yes, unlike the mobile app, the web version of OneDrive generally remembers your last used view preference (such as List or Compact List) and applies it more consistently across your browsing session.

Will OneDrive for Android let me set a default folder view?

No. Similar to the iOS app, OneDrive for Android currently requires you to change the viewing layout manually for each individual folder.

Does reinstalling the OneDrive app reset my customized folder views?

Yes, if you delete and reinstall the app, or clear its data, all folders will revert to the default Tile view. You will need to manually switch them back to List view.