Where Are Apple Freeform Boards Stored?
Freeform boards in iCloud plus local containers on macOS and iOS, and how offline cache behaves.
Last updated
Freeform boards live in iCloud when sync is on. Local copies sit in app containers on each device for offline work.
Deleting the app never deletes Cloud boards. Signing out pauses sync but keeps server copies. Local backup matters mainly before wiping a device or debugging sync loops.
Where Apple Freeform stores this, by platform
~/Library/Containers/com.apple.freeform/
Local cache and support files. Boards themselves sync via iCloud (Freeform toggle in System Settings > Apple ID > iCloud). Use Go to Folder in Finder; exact container name may vary by version.
On My iPhone/Freeform/
Files app location when iCloud Freeform is off. With sync on, boards live in iCloud Drive Freeform instead. Keep both enabled during moves, then disable local once Cloud copies confirm.
Frequently asked questions
Does deleting Freeform delete my boards?
No when iCloud sync is on. Boards stay in iCloud and return on reinstall. Local drafts made with sync off only live in On My iPhone or the Mac container, so export those first.
Freeform boards won't sync. What do I check?
Confirm the same Apple ID, iCloud Freeform toggle on, and enough iCloud space on both ends. Large boards with video stall on slow links. Restart once after toggling.
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