DocuLockDocuLock vs Apple Notes and Files
Updated 15 November 2026 ยท by the DocuLock team
In short. Apple Notes and Files are free and already on your iPhone. A locked note is encrypted with your passcode or a password, and Files is end-to-end encrypted when you turn on Advanced Data Protection. Neither reads expiry dates, reminds you, or shares a copy that expires and can be revoked. DocuLock does those, with encryption on by default.
| DocuLock | Apple Notes (locked note) | Files / iCloud Drive | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Encrypted so the provider cannot read it | Always | Locked notes are encrypted with your passcode or password | Only with Advanced Data Protection |
| Metadata hidden | Names, text and dates inside are encrypted | Creation and change dates are not encrypted | Depends on Advanced Data Protection |
| Reads the expiry date | Yes | No | No |
| Expiry reminders | Yes, per document | No | No |
| Share a copy that expires and can be revoked | Yes, with a view limit and code | No | iCloud links you can stop sharing |
| Black out, sign, crop pages | Yes | Mark-up on attachments | Mark-up in Quick Look |
| Price | Not set yet | Free | Free tier, then iCloud+ |
When Apple Notes is enough
If you only need a copy of a document now and then, and you lock the note, Apple Notes is free and simple. Apple says a forgotten custom note password cannot be recovered if Face ID or Touch ID cannot open it.
When DocuLock is the better fit
When documents expire (passports, visas, licences, insurance) and you want to be told in time; when you send copies to landlords, employers or agencies and want them to stop working; when you want encryption on by default rather than a setting to remember.
Disclosure: DocuLock is our product. Facts about other apps were checked on 15 November 2026 from their own websites, App Store listings and support pages, linked below. Prices change and differ by country: check the App Store for the price where you live. If something here is out of date, write to support@doculock.app and we will fix it.
Sources: Apple Platform Security: Notes; Apple: Lock notes; Apple: Advanced Data Protection.
Related
DocuLock is coming to iPhone. Ask for early access and we will write when it is ready.
Questions
Are locked notes in Apple Notes end-to-end encrypted?
Apple encrypts locked notes with your device passcode or a password you set. Some attachment types cannot be locked, and dates such as when the note changed are not encrypted.
Is iCloud Drive end-to-end encrypted?
Only when you turn on Advanced Data Protection, which needs a recovery contact or recovery key. Otherwise Apple holds the keys.