what are the different ways to store files on iOS?

There are several ways to store files on iOS, as discussed in various sessions at WWDC:

Session Content Directory:
- When using extensions, such as a Lock Screen camera capture extension, you can write data to a provided session content directory. This directory is migrated to your application's container when the extension is dismissed. It is important to persist any data you wish to preserve in this directory (Build a great Lock Screen camera capture experience).
PhotoKit:
- For photos and videos, you can use PhotoKit to add captured content directly to the photo library. This is useful for handling permissions and managing media files (Build a great Lock Screen camera capture experience).
iCloud and CloudKit:
- For synchronizing data across devices, such as game save data, you can use iCloud and CloudKit. This allows users to continue their progress on different devices seamlessly. CloudKit helps manage syncing and resolving conflicts between local and cloud data (Port advanced games to Apple platforms).
Custom Data Stores with SwiftData:
- SwiftData allows you to create custom data stores for different storage formats. For example, you can implement a store that uses a JSON file to persist data. This approach is flexible and can be tailored to specific needs, such as using a custom document format (Create a custom data store with SwiftData).
Model Container Customization:
- In iOS 18, SwiftData lets you customize your model container further, including specifying the URL of the data on disk. This allows for more control over where and how data is stored (What’s new in SwiftData).

Relevant Sessions

These methods provide a range of options for file storage on iOS, from using system-provided directories and libraries to implementing custom storage solutions.