iFunBox for Mac

Manage files on iPhone, iPad and iPod from your Mac

Apple’s mobile devices use a fairly locked-down file system that usually routes transfers through iTunes. iFunBox for macOS provides a simple way around that limitation by letting you view and move files on an iPhone, iPad or iPod directly from your Mac. If you’re looking for alternatives, iPhone Explorer is a free option worth checking out.

Key capabilities

• Create backups of music, videos and other media stored on the device
• Use the device’s storage like a removable disk to copy files to and from your Mac
• Browse the device with a folder tree (left pane) and view folder contents (right pane) in a two-column layout
• Transfer files back and forth between macOS and iOS without complex procedures
• Convert and upload images to use as wallpapers (note: this function requires a jailbroken device)

Getting started

1. Connect your iPhone, iPad or iPod to the Mac using a USB cable.
2. Launch iFunBox — there’s no long installation process required for basic use.
3. The app will scan the device and present the file structure in a double-pane window so you can drag and drop files between devices.

Downsides and caveats

• The interface is styled more like a Windows application than a native macOS app, which some users find unattractive and less intuitive.
• Free use is supported by in-app advertisements that appear while you work.
• Certain handy features (for example, automatic wallpaper conversion and direct installation of some content) require a jailbroken device to function.

Summary

iFunBox for macOS simplifies direct file access to iPhones, iPads and iPods, making media backups and manual file transfers straightforward. It isn’t a perfect, Mac-style experience — the UI and ad support are drawbacks — but it’s a useful, no-frills tool if you want quick access to the file system without relying on iTunes.