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iA Writer Can't Add Google Drive Folder on iPad

Ongoing iPhone, iPad Updated October 21, 2026

Quick answer

On iPhone and iPad you can open individual Google Drive files in iA Writer but users report the Google Drive file provider doesn't allow adding a whole folder as a Library location. Use iCloud or Dropbox for folder sync.

Most likely fix: Open single files via Files.

Symptoms

Google Drive appears in the file picker but folders can't be selected as a location, or only single files open.

Why it happens

  • Google Drive's iOS file provider doesn't support persistent folder access
  • iOS sandboxing limits what third-party providers expose

How to fix it

Try these in order — the most common fix is first.

  1. 1. Open single files via Files

    1. In iA Writer use Open and browse to Google Drive
    2. Edit the file — it saves back through Google Drive

  2. 2. Move the writing folder to iCloud or Dropbox

    1. Move your Markdown folder to iCloud Drive or Dropbox
    2. Add that folder as a location in iA Writer (Library > Edit > Add Location)

  3. 3. Keep Google Drive on desktop

    1. On Mac/Windows, Google Drive folders work as normal Library locations

This guide also covers

  • ia writer google drive ipad
  • ia writer google drive folder
  • ia writer google drive not working

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