OneDrive File Issues

How to Use OneDrive Instead of Extra iCloud Storage on iPhone

Camila Milosovich Oct 10, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user wants to store and manage documents on their iPhone using OneDrive to avoid paying for extra iCloud storage.

How to Use OneDrive Instead of Extra iCloud Storage on iPhone

Product: OneDrive
Device & OS: iPhone
Scenario: Looking for a cost-effective cloud storage alternative for document management on an iOS device when iCloud storage is running low.
Observed behavior: The user needs a method to seamlessly set up OneDrive for storing, accessing, and sharing files on an iPhone without relying on Apple's native iCloud storage for documents.

Before you start

Ensure you have your Microsoft account credentials ready and connect your iPhone to a stable Wi-Fi network to avoid unexpected cellular data usage during the initial app download.

Solution 1Recommended

Install and Set Up OneDrive on iOS

This is the primary method to configure your iPhone to use Microsoft's cloud storage for your daily file management instead of iCloud.

By installing the OneDrive app, you can manually upload files, automatically back up photos, and integrate with Microsoft 365 apps. You can also integrate OneDrive directly into the native iOS Files app for easier access.

Download OneDrive from the App Store

Open the Apple App Store on your iPhone, search for 'Microsoft OneDrive', and tap 'Get' to download and install the application.

Sign in to your Microsoft Account

Launch the OneDrive app and sign in using your existing Microsoft email address and password.

Enable OneDrive in the Apple Files App

Open the default 'Files' app on your iPhone. Tap the 'Browse' tab at the bottom, tap the three-dot icon in the top right corner, select 'Edit', and toggle the switch next to OneDrive to the 'On' position. Tap 'Done'.

Manage your files

You can now save downloaded files, documents, and attachments directly to the OneDrive folder within the Files app, bypassing iCloud Drive entirely.

iCloud Limitations: While you can move all your documents and photos to OneDrive, Apple still requires iCloud for full device backups (like settings, messages, and app data) and certain synchronization features between Apple devices.

Edit OneDrive Documents on iPhone with WPS Office

If you are storing your documents on OneDrive to save iCloud space, WPS Office for iOS offers a seamless way to access, view, and edit those files directly. It serves as a powerful, all-in-one mobile office suite that connects straight to your Microsoft cloud.

1. Install WPS Office: Download WPS Office from the Apple App Store and launch the application on your iPhone.
2. Access Cloud Storage Options: Navigate to the 'Open' or 'Cloud' tab at the bottom of the WPS Office home screen.
3. Connect to OneDrive: Tap on 'Add Cloud Storage', select 'OneDrive' from the list of providers, and log in with your Microsoft account to authorize access.
4. Edit and Auto-Save: Tap any document in your OneDrive folder to open it. Any edits you make will be automatically synced back to OneDrive, keeping your iCloud storage completely free.

Directly connect to OneDrive, Google Drive, and Dropbox without switching appsExcellent compatibility with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint formats (.docx, .xlsx, .pptx)Lightweight app size helps you save valuable local iPhone storageFree and user-friendly interface optimized for mobile document editing

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I back up my entire iPhone to OneDrive instead of iCloud?

No. Apple restricts full iOS system and app data backups exclusively to iCloud or a physical computer connection (via iTunes/Finder). OneDrive can only be used to back up your photos, videos, and independent document files.

Is OneDrive free to use on an iPhone?

Yes, the OneDrive app is free to download, and Microsoft provides 5 GB of free cloud storage for every user. If you need more storage for documents or photos, you can upgrade your plan or subscribe to Microsoft 365.

Will saving files to OneDrive delete them from iCloud automatically?

No. Uploading files to OneDrive simply copies them to Microsoft's servers. To free up your iCloud storage, you must manually delete the original files from iCloud Drive after confirming they have been successfully uploaded to OneDrive.

Document & File Issues