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How to Stop Duplicate 0 KB Files in OneDrive on iPad
Question details
Users are experiencing a syncing error where saving email attachments to OneDrive via the iPad Files app creates inaccessible, timestamped 0 KB duplicate files.
- Product
- Microsoft OneDrive / Apple Files App
- Device & OS
- iPadOS
- Scenario
- Saving email attachments directly to a OneDrive folder using the native iPad Files app integration.
- Observed behavior
- The original file becomes inaccessible, and repeated 0 KB copies with timestamped names are automatically generated in the destination folder.
Verify whether you are using a personal OneDrive account or OneDrive for Business, and ensure both your iPadOS and the Microsoft OneDrive app are updated to their latest versions.
Bypass the Apple Files App and Upload Directly via OneDrive
Saving files to the iPad's local storage first and using the official OneDrive app to upload prevents the Apple Files integration bug from creating 0 KB duplicates.
The native Apple Files app can occasionally experience API desyncs when communicating with third-party cloud services like OneDrive. Bypassing the integration and uploading natively through the OneDrive app ensures data integrity.
Open your email app, tap the attachment, choose 'Save to Files', and select a local folder under 'On My iPad'.
Launch the official Microsoft OneDrive app on your iPad and navigate to your desired destination folder.
Tap the '+' (Add) icon at the top of the screen, select 'Upload', and choose the file you just saved to your local iPad storage.
Verify and Delete Duplicates via OneDrive Web
Check the web version of OneDrive to confirm if the 0 KB files exist on the server and safely remove them to restore folder organization.
Update Applications and Contact Apple Support
If direct uploads work but the Files app continues to duplicate files, the integration itself requires a software patch from Apple.
Try WPS Office for Seamless File Management on iPad
Tired of cloud syncing errors and file duplication issues? WPS Office provides a lightweight, all-in-one workspace with highly stable built-in cloud storage (WPS Cloud) and robust support for Microsoft Office formats. Manage, save, and edit your email attachments effortlessly without relying on glitchy third-party app integrations.
- 1. Install WPS Office: Download WPS Office for free from the App Store on your iPad.
- 2. Open attachments directly: Tap your email attachment and choose 'Open in WPS Office' to view and edit without syncing delays.
- 3. Save safely to cloud: Save your document securely to WPS Cloud for reliable, duplicate-free access across all your devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the Apple Files app create 0 KB files in OneDrive?
This is typically caused by a syncing communication error between the iOS Files app and the OneDrive server. When the upload gets interrupted or fails to parse properly, it leaves behind an empty placeholder file with a timestamp.
Will deleting the 0 KB duplicates delete my original file?
No, the 0 KB files are empty duplicates that failed to sync. However, you should ensure the original email attachment is successfully saved locally or uploaded via the direct OneDrive app before bulk deleting files from your cloud storage.
Does this issue happen with both personal OneDrive and OneDrive for Business?
Yes, it can happen with both. However, OneDrive for Business is often more susceptible due to strict enterprise security policies and authentication tokens that can interfere with the Apple Files app's background syncing capabilities.
