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Where are scanned documents located on Apple devices
Did you just scan a document but can't locate the document on your device? Or just want some more information regarding Apple file management? Then this article might be helpful to you.
Where do scanned documents go on MAC
On Mac computers, the handling of scanned documents depends on the scanning software or app being used, as well as the settings configured within these tools. Here’s a quick overview of where you could look for the file.
By default, scanned documents, images, etc., are usually saved in the Pictures folder on your Mac. The location can be user-specified in the Save in section of the Save Settings during the scanning process.
Using File Explorer (Finder)
On a Mac, the built-in file explorer is known as Finder. You can use Finder to navigate to the Pictures folder to find your scanned documents. Alternatively, you can use Spotlight (search icon at the top-right of the screen) to search for scanned documents by typing search terms such as the file name or file extension into the search field.
When Using Specific Scan Software
The location where scanned documents are saved can also be determined by the scanning software or app being used, and the settings configured within these tools. When scanning a document, you may be prompted to select a storage folder. If you remember this location, you can easily find the scanned document later.
For instance, if using the built-in scanning features on your Mac: Connect your scanner to your Mac, turn it on, and open your scanner. Navigate to Apple Menu > System Settings, then click on Printers & Scanners. Click on the printer or scanner in the Printers list on the right, then click Open Scanner.
Where do scanned documents go on iPhone
On iPhones, the location of scanned documents largely depends on the method or app used for scanning. Here's a comprehensive summary of where scanned documents may be stored and how you can access them:
Just like before, the actual storage location will depend on your default storage location, your preferences and settings, and the app that you are using. In most cases by default when you use the native Notes app on your iPhone to scan documents, the scanned items are stored within the particular note in the Notes app, and not elsewhere on the device.
If you prefer to have your scanned documents saved to your iPhone’s Camera Roll as JPEG images, you can enable this option by going to
Settings > Notes and then toggling on the “Save to Photos” option. This will save all new scans from the Notes app to the Photos app.
Using the Files App on iPhone to Find Documents
The Files app on iPhone allows you to manage and organize various types of files, including scanned documents. To find scanned documents open the Files app (found on your home screen or in the App Library).
Navigate to where your scanned documents are saved, which could be in the iCloud Drive, On My iPhone, or any other connected cloud storage service.
Tap on the folder or location where your scanned documents are stored and scroll through the list of files to find the scanned document you are looking for.
Using Document Scanner Apps
Specialized document scanner apps like CamScanner, Adobe Scan, and Microsoft Office Lens, available on the App Store, provide a means to scan, save, and organize scanned documents.
Choose and install a reliable document scanner app from the App Store. Follow the setup process, which typically includes granting necessary permissions. Use the app to scan your documents and save them within the app. You can also organize, search, and back up your scanned documents within these apps, with some offering cloud synchronization for easy access across devices.
Scanning documents with the Files App
You can also scan documents directly within the Files app on your iPhone. To do this, tap the three dots on the top right corner of the Files app. Select "Scan Documents" and follow the on-screen prompts to scan your document. When you’re finished, tap "Save", select where you want to save your document, and then tap "Save" in the top right corner.
Search for documents in the File app
Locate and tap on the Files app icon on your home screen or in the App Library to open it. At the top of the Files app, there is a search bar. Tap on the search bar and start typing the name of the document or a keyword associated with the document you are searching for. As you type, suggestions will appear below the search bar. You can either complete typing your search term and hit return, or tap on one of the suggestions to execute the search. The Files app will display all files that match your search term.
Browsing Folders
If you prefer browsing, you can navigate through the folders within the Files app. Tap on a folder to view its contents, and continue navigating through sub-folders until you locate the document you are looking for.
You can also sort and filter files within a folder to make finding a particular document easier. Options for sorting might include sorting by name, date, size, etc.
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