Dec 21, 2020 • Filed to: Solve Mac Problems • Proven solutions
Apple released its new file system – APFS. The Apple File System is compatible with macOS, iOS, and a few other Apple devices. With a better encryption technique and faster processing, the file system is certainly making headlines this year. If you are new to APFS, then you have come to the right place. In this post, we will make you familiar with all the amazing features and benefits of the Apple File System (APFS).
Earlier, Apple devices were using a file system that was developed some 30 years ago. Needless to say, the new update in macOS 10.13 High Sierra and iOS 10.3 was due for a long time. Even though the Apple File System (APFS) has plenty of new features, we have covered the most evident ones here.
Compatibility: The macOS High Sierra can automatically convert file systems to APFS. It is also compatible with watchOS 3.2, tvOS 10.2, and iOS 10.3 (that were earlier using an HFSV system).
Getting the new Apple File System (APFS) is pretty easy. All you need to do is to upgrade your Apple devices to the above-mentioned operating systems. For instance, if you want your iPhone to support APFS, then simply upgrade it to iOS 10.3 or a later version. The same is applied to a Mac. After upgrading it to High Sierra, your Mac will automatically start supporting APFS.
Upgrade your iOS devices
If you own an iOS device (like an iPad or iPhone), then you can easily upgrade it to experience the new file system. Beforehand, you need to make sure that your iOS device supports the 10.3 updates. To upgrade your device, simply unlock it and go to its Settings > General > Software Update. From here, you can view the latest version of iOS available.
Just tap on the "Download and Install" button and wait for a while as the new update will be downloaded. Later, your device will automatically be restarted and upgrade to iOS 10.3 with a new file system.
Update your Mac to High Sierra
After upgrading your system to macOS 10.13 High Sierra, the file system will automatically be converted from HFS+ to APFS. Needless to say, the automatic conversion will support internal SSD drives. Though, the external storage units (like SD cards or USB drives) won't be automatically converted.
Before you proceed and upgrade your Mac, make sure that you meet the prerequisites. For instance, you can only get the High Sierra upgrade on your Mac if it is running on OS X Mountain Lion 10.8 or later versions. Ideally, devices manufactured after late 2009 supports the update. Additionally, there should be at least 15 GB of free space on your system to complete the upgrade.
After meeting all the needed prerequisites, just go to macOS High Sierra's official website right here. Click on the "Upgrade Now" button to get the update. Once it is downloaded, it will automatically start installing the update. If not, you can manually launch the installer. Follow the on-screen instructions and wait for a while as your Mac would be restarted to High Sierra.
Note: Too many times, users take a backup of their data before an upgrade via Time Machine. In this case, the Time Machine on your Mac can't be formatted to APFS as of now. It can back up data from APFS, but the destination should be HFS+. Therefore, it is recommended to not convert the Time Machine disk manually. Let your macOS take care of it automatically.
The Benefits of APFS
After upgrading your system to Apple File System (APFS), you will experience a radical change. Your smartphone or Mac experience will be improved a lot with these benefits.
With better data integrity, reliability, and encryption features, the Apple File System (APFS) is certainly a winner. If your Apple device is compatible with it, then you should upgrade it to the new OS. It comes with lots of benefits that will make your Mac or iOS device experience pretty smooth. Go ahead and give it a try and share your experience with us in the comments.
Sue Wayne
staff Editor
Generally rated4.5(105participated)