Open HTML on iPhone and iPad
How do I open an HTML file on iPhone?
Learn why iPhone often previews HTML instead of running it like a web page, and how HTML Pocket helps you open local HTML files.
Quick answer
If the file is a simple saved web page, iOS Files may show a preview. If you want it to behave more like a web page, open it with HTML Pocket through the share sheet and keep it in a local history.
Why this happens
Files is built for document preview, not for managing a local web project. A page may open, but scripts, images, or later access can become awkward.
What you can try
Try Files first for a simple document. Use HTML Pocket when the file came from ChatGPT, Mail, AirDrop, or another app and you want a repeatable local page.
When HTML Pocket helps
HTML Pocket imports the file, renders it with WebKit, and keeps an entry so you do not have to hunt through folders next time.
- Open .html and .htm files
- Import ZIP web projects
- Render with the system WebKit engine
- Keep a local history of opened pages
Limits
- It does not edit HTML source code.
- It does not repair broken HTML, missing files, or server-only code.
- It is not a public hosting service or a full browser.