If you're working in Pages, Numbers, or Keynote and have created a file that is larger than 500 MB, saving it as a package helps the app you're using perform better. A package is a collection of files that your Mac reads as one file. By default, these versions of Pages, Numbers and Keynote auto-save files to the hard drive as a single file.
If you experience app performance issues and you aren’t planning to send or store the document using a non-iCloud internet service, then save as package. Otherwise, it's best to save as a single file.
Save as a package or a single file
If you aren’t using Apple File System (APFS), or if you have an older version of Pages, Numbers, or Keynote, you might see a message when your document is 500 MB or larger:
- Pages: "Would you like to save this document as a package?”
- Numbers: "Would you like to save this spreadsheet as a package?”
- Keynote: "Would you like to save this presentation as a package?”
Choose "Keep Single File" if:
- You plan to send your document to a non-iCloud internet service such as iTunes U, Dropbox, Gmail, or another site where you upload files through your web browser.
Choose "Use Package" if:
- You're saving your document to your hard drive.
- You're experiencing spinners or slow performance when editing your document.
You can switch between a single file and a package at any time. Open your file. Then choose File > Advanced > Change File Type and select the type you'd like to use.
If your package is damaged and can't be opened
Documents saved as a package are sometimes damaged when they are uploaded to email or file sharing services in a web browser. If you try to open the file, you will get this alert:
If you get this message, ask the owner of the file to save it as a single file and send it to you.