How to Open RAR Files on iPhone

Nicholas Russell
By Nicholas Russell 11 Min Read
11 Min Read

Hey there! 🌟 You know, when pals or work buddies send me hefty files, they usually squeeze them into these fancy .rar or .zip formats. Being the iPhone and Mac enthusiast that I am, I’ve cracked the code on how to crack open these files right on my devices.

Let’s Dive In: Opening .rar Files on Your iPhone

So, you’re sitting there, iPhone in hand, staring at a .rar file, and you’re like, “Uh-oh, what now?” No worries! I’m here to spill the beans on how to do this like a pro.

  1. Native Magic: Using Shortcuts AppImagine your iPhone is a superhero, and the Shortcuts app is its magical cape. To unleash the power, find the ‘Extract Archive’ action in Shortcuts. Tap it, and voila! Your .rar file unfolds like a mystery box.
  2. Extra Goodies: Third-Party Apps and WebsitesSometimes, you want a little extra pizzazz. Enter iZip and CloudConvert, the cool sidekicks that swoop in to save the day. These apps and websites are like your trusty helpers, making .rar files tap dance for you.

Saving Time: The Scoop on Third-Party Apps and Websites

Alright, you’re thinking, “Devansh, spill the tea! What’s the fastest way to open these files?” Hold onto your hats; I’ve got you covered.

  • iZip: Your Digital ButlerPicture iZip as your tech-savvy butler. It opens .rar files with a snap, making your life a breeze. Just give it a go, and watch the magic unfold.
  • CloudConvert: Your File MagicianNow, imagine CloudConvert as the Houdini of files. It transforms .rar files into something more manageable in the blink of an eye. Abracadabra, and you’re good to go!

Can You Open .rar Files in the ‘Files’ App?

Ever wondered if you could pop open those mysterious .rar files right in the ‘Files’ app on your iPhone? Well, Apple claims it’s a breeze, but reality check – it didn’t quite work for me on my trusty iPhone 13. No worries, though! I’ve got a nifty alternative using the Shortcuts app. Buckle up, and let’s dive into the shortcut magic.

So, Apple says you can unzip .rar files in the Files app, but my iPhone had other plans. Not to worry, we’ve got a shortcut up our sleeves. Instead of pulling your hair out trying to figure it out, let’s take a stroll through the Shortcuts app.

Shortcut Showtime: Unleashing the Power

  1. Tap the Magic ‘+’ Icon:Imagine this icon as your secret gateway to the mystical world of shortcuts. Tap it, and you’re on your way.
  2. Add the Secret Sauce – ‘File’:In the search bar, type ‘File’ and select it under ‘Documents.’ This is your shortcut’s backbone.
  3. Pick Your .rar File:Now, tap ‘File’ again, locate that sneaky .rar file, and give it a nod.
  4. Sprinkle Some Magic – ‘Extract Archive’:Here’s where the real magic happens. Add the ‘Extract Archive’ action, and watch the shortcut come to life.
  5. Secure the Treasure – ‘Save File’:To make sure you don’t lose your newly uncovered treasure, add the ‘Save File’ action. Your shortcut is shaping up!
  6. Tap ‘Done’ and Bask in Victory:With a satisfied grin, tap ‘Done.’ Now, when you run the shortcut, it’ll ask where to stash your loot. Choose a spot, and let the magic unfold.

Repeat the Magic: Opening Another .rar File

Feeling like a shortcut pro? What if you want to crack open another .rar file? Easy peasy!

  1. Tap the Ellipses Icon:Spot the three dots (ellipses) beside your shortcut. Tap them, and you’re in business.
  2. Switcheroo Time:See the existing file name in the shortcut canvas? Give it a tap and swap it out for your new file. Save it, run the shortcut, and voila! Your new .rar file is ready for action.

There you have it, champs! Unleash the shortcut magic, crack open those files, and let your iPhone dance to your command. 🌟

Third-Party Apps and Websites to Open .rar Files on iPhone

If the whole shortcut thing seemed like a marathon, don’t sweat it. We’ve got your back with some supercharged apps and websites that’ll crack open .rar files on your iPhone with a breeze. Let’s dive into the world of convenience.

Swift Solutions: Top Apps for .rar Files

  1. iZip: Your Digital WizardImagine iZip as your trusty digital wizard. It opens .rar files like a snap of the fingers. Go ahead, let it work its magic and enjoy the show!
  2. WinZip: The Zip MasterMeet WinZip, the Zip Master of your iPhone. It doesn’t just zip; it conquers .rar files with ease. Your files are in good hands with this champ.
  3. Documents: Your Virtual File HeroDocuments is like the superhero of the file world. It not only opens .rar files but also manages them like a pro. Your files are in for a treat!

Web Wonders: Online Solutions for .rar Files

  1. Archive Extractor: The Online MarvelSay hello to Archive Extractor, the online marvel that unravels .rar files in the blink of an eye. Just upload your file, and let the magic unfold on the web.
  2. CloudConvert: The Digital Shape-ShifterEnter CloudConvert, the digital shape-shifter. It takes your .rar file and transforms it into a more manageable format online. Fast, efficient, and hassle-free.

These apps and websites are your shortcut to file freedom. Whether you’re on the go or chilling at home, let iZip, WinZip, Documents, Archive Extractor, and CloudConvert handle the heavy lifting. Opening .rar files has never been this easy!

Conclusion

And there you have it, fellow tech enthusiasts! We’ve embarked on a journey through the maze of .rar files on your iPhone, armed with shortcuts, apps, and online wonders. Whether you’re a shortcut sorcerer or prefer the magic of apps, opening .rar files is now a walk in the digital park.

From unraveling the mystery in the ‘Files’ app using Shortcuts to unleashing the powers of iZip, WinZip, and Documents, we’ve covered the entire spectrum. No more head-scratching or frustration when you receive those compressed treasures.

If the shortcut route seemed like a puzzle, fear not; iZip, with its digital wizardry, is here to make your life easier. WinZip stands tall as the Zip Master, ensuring .rar files bow to its command. Documents, your virtual file hero, not only opens but manages your files effortlessly.

For those who prefer the online realm, Archive Extractor emerges as the online marvel, ready to reveal the contents of your .rar file with a click. CloudConvert, the digital shape-shifter, transforms your files into a more manageable format, making your online file adventures smoother than ever.

So, whether you choose the native Shortcuts app, the magic of iZip, WinZip, and Documents, or the online wonders of Archive Extractor and CloudConvert, your iPhone is now equipped to handle .rar files like a pro.

Say goodbye to the confusion of missing ‘Uncompress’ buttons or the disappointment of unsuccessful attempts in the Files app. Armed with our insights, you’re now the captain of your digital ship, steering through .rar files with confidence.

Tech troubles, be gone! Let your iPhone dance to your commands, unraveling files and opening doors to a world of possibilities. Until next time, happy exploring! 🚀📱

FAQ

Can I open .rar files directly in the ‘Files’ app on my iPhone?

While Apple claims it’s possible, our journey revealed a few bumps. If you’re facing the same dilemma, worry not—shortcuts and alternative apps are here to save the day!

Why should I use third-party apps like iZip and WinZip instead of the native method?

Great question! Third-party apps like iZip and WinZip often provide a smoother experience, allowing you to unzip files with a simple tap, saving you time and effort.

What makes CloudConvert and Archive Extractor preferable for online file handling?

CloudConvert and Archive Extractor shine in the online realm, effortlessly transforming .rar files into more manageable formats. If you prefer a web-based solution, these two are your go-to options.

Can I open multiple .rar files using the Shortcuts app?

Absolutely! The Shortcuts app lets you create a shortcut for each .rar file, making it a breeze to open multiple files with ease. Just tap and let the magic unfold.

Is there a limit to the file size I can handle with these apps and shortcuts?

Generally, these tools handle files of various sizes, but it’s always a good idea to check the specific app or shortcut’s capabilities. Larger files may take a bit more time to process.

How do I replace an existing file in a shortcut with a new .rar file?

If you want to open a different .rar file using the same shortcut, simply tap the ellipses icon, select the existing file name in the shortcut canvas, choose the new file, save it, and run the shortcut. Easy peasy!

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