Add email attachments on iPhone and send documents, photos, or files in just a few taps. Whether you’re sharing a PDF for work, a picture with a friend, or a file saved in iCloud, the process is simple, but many users don’t realize all the options available.
The good news? iOS makes attaching files easier than ever in 2025. From the Mail app or even third-party apps like Gmail and Outlook, you can quickly grab files from Photos, Files, or cloud storage and add them directly to your email.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the easy steps to add email attachments on iPhone, show you the different ways to attach files, and share quick tips for smoother sharing. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to attach and send any file without the hassle.
Understanding Email Attachments on iPhone
Before adding attachments, it’s useful to understand how the iPhone handles files. Not all file types are treated the same, and not all apps behave the same way when you try to attach something.
The Mail app; the default email application on iPhones; supports a wide range of file types, including PDFs, images (JPEG, PNG, HEIC), documents (DOC, DOCX), spreadsheets (XLS, XLSX), presentations (PPT, PPTX), and ZIP files. You can also send contact cards, calendar events, and even audio files.
Some files open directly in the Mail app preview. Others may require a third-party viewer. Apple has improved its handling of different file formats, but certain types like executable files or advanced project files from software like AutoCAD might still be restricted.
Also, remember that the file must be available locally on the phone or in a connected cloud account. That means if the file is in your Dropbox but not synced to your Files app, you won’t be able to attach it immediately.
iPhones don’t have a traditional file system like a computer. Instead, files are organized by apps. The Files app acts as a central hub for managing different file locations. Whether your document is on iCloud Drive, OneDrive, Google Drive, or Dropbox, the Files app helps bring them together.
Photos and videos are stored in the Photos app, and can be attached directly from there. Notes, Safari pages, and many other apps offer a Share option that lets you send items through Mail.
Where Your Files Are Stored
Knowing where your files live on your iPhone makes attachment easy. iOS organizes files across a few core areas:
iCloud Drive: This is Apple’s cloud storage system. It syncs automatically across your Apple devices. If you create or store documents using Apple apps like Pages or Numbers, they’re saved here. iCloud Drive is also integrated into the Files app.
Files App: Think of this as your iPhone’s file manager. It connects to iCloud Drive, but also to third-party services like Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive. You can browse, search, and open files from almost anywhere. If you’re attaching a document, this is often where you’ll find it.
Photos App: All photos and videos are stored here by default. If you take a photo with your iPhone camera, this is where it ends up. When you want to attach an image or video to an email, the Photos app is usually your first stop.
Third-party Apps: If you use other apps to manage documents or files; like Adobe Acrobat, Microsoft Word, or Notability; they may have their own in-app storage. These can also connect to the Files app in many cases, allowing attachments from within those apps.
To make attachments faster in the future, consider organizing your files in folders inside iCloud Drive or saving them to locations you can access through the Files app. That way, when you’re composing an email, your documents are a few taps away.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Add Email Attachments on iPhone
This section includes the only list in the article. Here’s how to attach files in the Mail app on your iPhone:
- Open the Mail app.
- Tap the compose icon (bottom-right corner of the screen).
- Enter the recipient’s email address, subject, and message as usual.
- Tap and hold in the message body until a menu appears.
- Tap the right arrow (chevron) on the menu until you see “Add Attachment.”
- Select “Add Attachment.”
- This opens the Files app. Browse through iCloud Drive, On My iPhone, or connected cloud services.
- Tap the file you want to attach.
- The file will upload and appear in the email body.
- Tap Send when you’re ready.
This process supports most document types. If you want to send photos or videos, follow the next steps.
Using the Files App
If you open a file first; say a PDF or Word document; you can send it directly via Mail. Tap the Share icon, then select Mail. It creates a new message with the file already attached.
Attaching Photos and Videos
To attach images or videos:
- Open Mail and start a new message.
- Tap and hold in the message body.
- Choose Insert Photo or Video.
- Your Photos library will open. Tap one or more images or clips.
- They’ll appear inside your email ready to send.
You can also go to the Photos app, select a photo, tap the Share icon, and choose Mail. This sends the image as an attachment in a new email.
Attaching Documents from Third-Party Apps
If you’re using apps like Google Docs, Word, or Dropbox, find your file and tap the Share icon. From there, choose Send a Copy or Export, then select Mail. This will start a new email with the document attached.
Some apps allow you to “Open In…” another app. Choose Mail when available.
Adding Multiple Attachments
Adding multiple files to a single email on an iPhone is now easier than ever. With recent iOS updates, you no longer need to attach files one at a time, making the process more efficient for users who need to send multiple documents, images, or other media in one message. To add several attachments, begin by opening the Mail app and composing a new message. Once you’re in the body of the email, tap and hold until the formatting menu appears. From here, select “Add Attachment” or “Insert Photo or Video,” depending on the type of content you wish to attach.
After the file picker opens, you can browse your iCloud Drive or other connected locations in the Files app. Tap on one file to add it. To include more, repeat the same steps as many times as necessary. For images and videos, the process can be even faster. After tapping “Insert Photo or Video,” your photo library opens. You can tap on multiple items to select them all at once. This feature works best when your content is already grouped into albums or folders, so it’s easier to locate and add everything you need without extra scrolling.
If you’re attaching a combination of document types; like a PDF, a few photos, and a spreadsheet; you’ll need to switch between the “Add Attachment” and “Insert Photo or Video” options. While it adds a few more taps, the process is still smoother than it was in previous versions of iOS.
Keeping files organized ahead of time can save you a lot of time during this process. You might consider creating a folder in iCloud Drive for commonly sent files, so when it’s time to send them, they’re right where you need them. Using filenames that are easy to recognize also helps reduce mistakes, especially when sending attachments in a business setting.
Once all your files are attached, you’ll see them displayed in the body of your email, stacked in the order they were added. At this point, you can write your message, double-check the attachments, and hit Send.
If your total attachment size exceeds limits, Mail may suggest using Mail Drop automatically, or you can use a link from a cloud service. This flexibility makes handling multiple attachments much easier without needing a desktop.
Using Drag and Drop (iOS Multitasking)
Drag and Drop is a native iOS feature that helps speed up tasks like attaching files, especially when working across apps. Originally introduced on iPad, it’s now fully supported on iPhones running recent iOS versions. If you’ve never used this before, you’re not alone; it’s one of those features hidden in plain sight, but once you use it, it becomes second nature.
Here’s how it works. Open the Mail app and start a new message. Then, swipe up slightly to access the Dock or App Library, and open another app such as Files or Photos. Press and hold the file, photo, or video you want to move. Without lifting your finger, use another finger to swipe back to your Mail message. When the Mail window is active again, drop the item into the message body. The file will automatically attach to the email.
You can even select multiple items to drag at once. For example, in the Photos app, tap and hold on one image, then use another finger to tap additional images. You’ll see a counter appear showing how many items you’ve selected. Drag them all into your Mail message and release to attach them in bulk.
This method is especially helpful if you’re working between apps like Files and Mail, or Notes and Mail. It avoids switching back and forth through menus and allows for a faster workflow. For example, if you’re a student attaching class notes from the Files app or a contractor sharing site images from Photos, Drag and Drop makes the process more direct.
This feature works with most standard file types and across many popular apps. It’s a great choice when composing more detailed emails that require several attachments or when working in multitasking mode. For better performance, keep both apps open in Slide Over or use the App Switcher to move between them fluidly.
While Drag and Drop may not be something you use daily, it’s a powerful tool when you need to be quick and precise with file attachments on your iPhone. Once you get comfortable with the gesture-based navigation, it becomes an efficient alternative to traditional attachment menus.
Email Size Limits and How to Work Around Them
Sending files via email comes with one main limitation; file size. Most email providers have limits on how large an attachment can be. Apple’s Mail app typically restricts attachments to about 20 to 25 MB per message. If you try to send a video or multiple high-resolution images, you might quickly exceed this limit.
To handle this, Apple offers a helpful feature called Mail Drop. When you try to send files that are too large, the Mail app will ask if you want to use Mail Drop. If you agree, your file uploads to iCloud temporarily, and the recipient receives a download link instead of the actual file. This allows you to send up to 5 GB per message without worrying about compressing or breaking files apart.
Mail Drop works with all Apple email addresses (like @icloud.com) and also for other services when using the Mail app. The files remain accessible for 30 days and don’t count against your iCloud storage quota. It’s a smooth workaround built directly into the email system.
There are other ways to send large files too. Cloud storage services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive let you upload a file and share a link via email. This is useful if you’re not using the Mail app or if Mail Drop isn’t available. These services typically offer more control over file sharing, including expiration dates, access permissions, and version history.
If you’re sending large videos, be sure to check out How to Send Video via Email Without Size Limits. It offers specific strategies to compress, link, and share videos through email, helping you avoid bounces and delivery failures.
When preparing files for email, you can also compress them into ZIP archives. This reduces file size and makes them easier to send. iPhones can open and create ZIP files using the Files app. Just tap and hold on a file or folder, then choose “Compress.” This is a simple way to reduce size, especially for text documents and spreadsheets.
Being aware of size limits and using these methods gives you more control over your attachments. You can send what you need without running into frustrating upload errors or delayed messages.
How to Add Attachments in Third-Party Email Apps
While Apple’s Mail app is standard on iPhones, many users prefer apps like Gmail, Outlook, or Yahoo Mail. These apps offer their own unique workflows for attaching files, and knowing the differences can save time.
In Gmail, start by opening the app and tapping the compose icon. Inside the new message screen, tap the paperclip icon at the top. This opens a menu with options such as “Attach file” and “Insert from Drive.” If your file is stored locally on your device, choose “Attach file.” You’ll be directed to your Files app where you can select the file. To send something from your Google Drive, use the “Insert from Drive” option. Gmail will insert a live link or file preview, depending on your recipient’s access level.
Outlook has a similar setup. When composing a new message, tap the paperclip icon and choose whether you want to attach a file from your device or from OneDrive. If your documents are saved to Microsoft cloud services, it’s easy to share links that don’t count against attachment limits. You can also browse recent files or upload directly from the Files app. Outlook supports most common formats and offers a preview option for many file types.
Yahoo Mail allows you to attach files by tapping the plus icon when composing a message. This opens a list of options including images, files, and recent documents. You can add multiple attachments the same way, and Yahoo Mail will display a visual indicator of how many files are included.
Each app integrates with the iPhone’s Files and Photos apps, but some features; like inserting files from third-party clouds, may require permissions. Be sure to grant access when prompted.
Using third-party apps can offer better integration with your existing accounts, especially if you rely on services like Google Workspace or Microsoft 365. But the basic attachment process remains similar: start a new email, look for the attach icon, and select your file. Knowing these steps lets you stay productive, no matter which app you prefer.
Sending Files from Notes, Safari, and Other Apps
Many iPhone apps include built-in options for sharing content through email. This makes attaching files quicker because you don’t have to save or move them first. For example, if you’re using the Notes app, you can email a note directly without opening Mail separately. Just open the note, tap the share icon, and select Mail. A new message opens with the note content already inserted, often as a PDF.
The same applies to Safari. If you’re reading an article, reviewing a document, or want to share a web page, you can tap the Share icon at the bottom of the screen. Select Mail, and the link or content will be added to a new email. This is useful for sending reading materials or reference links to coworkers, clients, or friends.
Other apps that support this function include Files, Voice Memos, Pages, Numbers, and Keynote. When you’re inside any of these apps, tap the Share icon, then choose Mail. You can then add text or recipients before sending. This process saves time because you don’t need to locate the file again in the Mail app; it’s sent directly from the source.
Using the Share menu is especially helpful when you’re in a hurry or working with apps that create content, like scanning apps, editing tools, or PDF readers. It simplifies the entire flow of attaching documents and ensures you’re sending exactly what you see on screen.
Keep in mind that depending on the app, some files may be sent as attachments, while others may be inserted as inline content. PDFs, images, and most documents will attach correctly, while app-generated text or links may be formatted within the email body.
This flexibility allows you to use your iPhone more efficiently. You can complete tasks in fewer steps, improve your workflow, and make sure important files are delivered exactly when and how you want them.
Attaching Emails to Emails
There may be times when instead of forwarding the content of an email, you need to send the email itself as an attachment. This is particularly useful for referencing old conversations, sharing full threads for context, or submitting an email as part of a report or formal communication. On iPhones, this feature isn’t immediately visible, but with iOS updates, it has become more accessible through the Mail app.
To attach an email to another email, open the Mail app and locate the message you want to attach. Tap and hold the email until a menu appears. Choose “Forward,” but don’t immediately begin typing the new email. Instead, swipe up to the App Switcher and return to your inbox. Now start composing a new email. Go back to the previously opened email (which is now in a minimized state), tap and hold on the message header, and drag it into the new email body. This action drops the original email into the new message as an attachment, which appears as a .eml file.
This method allows the full email, including headers, metadata, and formatting, to remain intact. It’s especially helpful in professional settings where full context or original timestamps need to be preserved. You can do this multiple times to attach more than one email in a single message. The recipient can download and open these attached emails in their email client without any loss of data.
This technique is particularly handy when sharing error reports, customer feedback, or client correspondence. It saves the recipient from confusion by presenting the original email in its untouched form.
If dragging and dropping feels cumbersome, another method is to select the email, choose “Forward,” and then copy and paste the entire content into a new message. However, this does not attach the message as a .eml file. For true attachment format, the drag-and-drop method is preferred.
Email Attachment Tips for Productivity
Using attachments effectively isn’t just about adding files; it’s also about making the process faster, clearer, and more organized. One of the easiest ways to boost your email productivity is by maintaining a well-organized file system on your iPhone. Storing commonly used documents in a dedicated iCloud Drive folder can cut down on time spent browsing through unrelated files. Naming your files clearly and consistently is another simple but powerful habit. A name like “Contract_March2025_ClientName.pdf” is more helpful than “Doc1.pdf” when you need to find and resend it later.
Setting up favorites in the Files app is another great tip. You can mark folders or documents that you access frequently so that they appear at the top of your browsing list. This saves you from having to drill down multiple levels each time. If you use multiple cloud accounts, such as Google Drive or Dropbox, linking them through the Files app gives you one unified space to search and attach files without switching between apps.
Another time-saving strategy involves using email templates with placeholders for attachments. If you frequently send status reports or invoices, create a draft template and simply attach the updated file each time. This minimizes typing and keeps your communication consistent.
For photos and videos, consider creating albums in the Photos app labeled by project, date, or recipient. This makes it easier to find specific media quickly when composing a message.
Using Siri Shortcuts is another way to streamline email attachments. You can create a shortcut that automatically composes a new email and attaches a specific document. For example, if you send your resume frequently, you can set up a shortcut to do this in one tap.
Small improvements in how you manage and attach files can save hours over time, especially if you send several emails a day. Organizing your files, naming them clearly, and leveraging built-in tools like favorites and shortcuts can transform how you work from your iPhone.
Troubleshooting Attachment Issues
Even though attaching files on an iPhone is generally simple, issues can still arise. Sometimes the attachment option is missing, files don’t upload, or the email fails to send. These problems can stem from several causes; outdated software, unsupported file types, connectivity issues, or app glitches.
One common issue is that the “Add Attachment” option doesn’t appear in the Mail app’s formatting menu. This often happens when there’s a glitch or if the app hasn’t loaded fully. Closing and reopening the Mail app usually resolves this. If that doesn’t work, try restarting your phone. It’s also a good idea to check for software updates under Settings > General > Software Update. iOS updates often fix small bugs that affect app behavior.
Another issue is when attachments appear to upload but fail to send. This might be due to file size restrictions. As mentioned earlier, the Mail app has limits on how large a message can be. If the file exceeds those limits, try compressing it using the Files app or enable Mail Drop when prompted.
Unsupported file types are another possible source of problems. Certain file formats may not be attachable or viewable within Mail. For example, files created in proprietary software like AutoCAD or advanced video editing tools may not open correctly unless exported in a common format like PDF or MP4.
Files stored in third-party apps may also not show up if permissions haven’t been granted. Go to Settings > Privacy > Files and Folders to check whether Mail or Files has access to third-party apps like Dropbox or Google Drive. If these permissions are off, attachments from those apps won’t be visible or attachable.
Lastly, low storage space can cause file handling issues. If your iPhone is close to full, temporary files may not save properly, and apps might behave erratically. Go to Settings > iPhone Storage to review space and remove unused apps or large media files if needed.
Identifying the source of the problem is the key step. Whether it’s a permissions setting, an outdated iOS version, or an unsupported format, most attachment issues can be resolved with a few quick adjustments.
Email Attachments and Security
Attaching files comes with its own set of privacy and security considerations. While the iPhone and Apple Mail app offer secure methods for sending files, it’s still up to the user to make safe choices. Every time you send an attachment, you’re sharing data that could potentially be sensitive. Documents like contracts, identification papers, or financial spreadsheets require extra caution.
Start by confirming the recipient’s email address. Autocomplete suggestions can lead to accidental sends. Always double-check before pressing Send, especially for emails containing personal or confidential attachments.
Consider password-protecting your documents. Many file types, such as PDFs and Word documents, support encryption. Before attaching them, you can add a password directly from the app you’re using. If you send protected files, make sure to share the password through a separate channel, such as a secure messaging app.
For an extra layer of protection, you can use cloud storage links instead of attaching files directly. Services like Google Drive, OneDrive, and iCloud Drive allow you to control access to your shared files. You can set expiration dates, restrict download permissions, or enable view-only access.
Avoid sending sensitive files over public Wi-Fi networks, especially unsecured ones. If you must use public Wi-Fi, consider enabling a VPN for safer browsing and sending. While Apple encrypts data during transit, using secure networks adds an extra buffer.
Also, be cautious with incoming attachments. Just as you can send sensitive files, you can receive them. Opening files from unknown sources can expose your device to risks. Apple’s Mail app includes built-in protection against common threats, but it’s still smart to avoid opening attachments from senders you don’t recognize.
Saving Attachments on iPhone
After receiving an attachment, you may want to save it to your device for future use. On an iPhone, saving files is simple, whether it’s a PDF, Word document, or photo. When you open an email in the Mail app that includes an attachment, tap on the file to preview it. In the top-right corner of the preview screen, you’ll see a share icon; tap this to access saving options.
From the Share menu, choose “Save to Files.” You can then pick a destination folder, such as iCloud Drive, On My iPhone, or another linked cloud service. Tap “Save,” and your file is stored for future access. If you prefer to save to a specific folder, you can create a new one directly within the Files app before saving.
Images and videos offer another option. After tapping on a photo or video attachment, use the Share button and choose “Save Image” or “Save Video.” These are added to your Photos app in the most recent album, allowing you to edit, share, or back them up just like any other media on your phone.
Saving attachments helps keep important documents organized and accessible. It also makes it easier to forward files later or move them to other devices. You can manage saved files directly in the Files app, sort them by name or date, and even tag them for easier searching.
Having a habit of saving important attachments means you’re not dependent on email servers to retrieve documents. Whether it’s a travel ticket, contract, or invoice, keeping a local copy gives you control and peace of mind.
Conclusion
Attaching files to an email on an iPhone in 2025 is no longer a challenge; once you know where to look and what steps to follow. Whether you’re sending a resume, sharing a PDF, or attaching a full album of photos, the process is simple and accessible with the right tools and understanding.
The iPhone Mail app now supports a wide range of file types, from images and documents to audio and compressed folders. With access to iCloud Drive and third-party services like Google Drive or Dropbox through the Files app, users can easily attach files stored across platforms. If you’re sending a lot of files or large videos, features like Mail Drop and cloud storage links give you flexibility without worrying about size restrictions.
Organizing your files, learning drag-and-drop techniques, and using the Share menu from other apps can all speed up the process. These small habits make a big difference, especially for people who rely on their phones for daily communication; whether for business, education, or personal use.
If problems do arise, troubleshooting steps like checking storage space, updating iOS, or reviewing app permissions often resolve the issue. And with a focus on file security, you can safely send attachments without risking privacy or confidentiality.
Mastering file attachments on your iPhone doesn’t require advanced tech skills; just a few clear steps and smart habits. With these tips and methods, you’re now equipped to manage attachments smoothly, securely, and confidently on your iPhone.
FAQs
1. How can I reduce file size before sending an attachment?
You can compress files into ZIP format directly from the Files app. Tap and hold the file or folder, then select “Compress.” This is useful for reducing the size of large documents or batches of files. For photos and videos, consider exporting them in lower resolution or using apps that offer file size reduction before sending.
2. Can I attach files from Safari directly to an email?
Yes. If you’re viewing a document or webpage in Safari that you want to share, tap the Share icon and select Mail. The page link or downloadable file will be inserted into a new email draft. This makes sharing online content quick without needing to save it first.
3. What should I do if an attachment won’t upload?
Start by checking your internet connection and available storage. Restart the Mail app or the phone if the issue continues. If the file is too large, try using Mail Drop or upload it to a cloud service and send a link. Also ensure the file format is supported by Mail.
4. Is it possible to remove an attachment before sending the email?
Yes. In your email draft, tap and hold on the attached file. You’ll see a pop-up with an option to delete or remove it. This works for any type of attachment and helps you avoid sending files unintentionally.
5. Can I preview attachments before sending them?
Absolutely. Once a file is attached, tap it to open a preview window. You can view documents, images, videos, and other file types to make sure you’ve selected the correct version. This helps reduce errors and ensures your message is complete before hitting Send.
