How to Open and Play Scratch SB3 Files on iPhone and iPad

Use SB3 File Opener & Player to import a project from the Files app and play it locally on iOS or iPadOS. Previously known as SB3 Game Player.

What is an SB3 file?

An SB3 file stores a project created for Scratch 3, including its project data, costumes and sounds. An iPhone or iPad does not treat this project file as a normal video, so it needs a compatible player.

Steps to open an SB3 file on iOS

  1. Save the .sb3 project in the Files app, iCloud Drive or On My iPhone/iPad.
  2. Install and open SB3 File Opener & Player.
  3. Choose the option to import or open a project.
  4. Select the .sb3 file in the Files picker.
  5. Wait for the project to load, then start it with the player controls.

Download SB3 File Opener & Player on the App Store

Opening a file from Safari, Mail or another app

First save the attachment or download to Files. If the Share sheet offers SB3 File Opener & Player, you may also send the file directly to the app. Keeping an original copy in Files makes it easier to retry an import.

If the SB3 project does not load

  • Confirm that the filename ends in .sb3.
  • Download the project again if the file may be incomplete.
  • Make sure your device has enough free storage for the project assets.
  • Try a smaller project to identify incompatible extensions or unusually large assets.
  • Do not rename a different file type to .sb3; renaming does not convert it.

Need an Android SB3 player?

See the separate guide for opening Scratch SB3 files on Android.

Independent app notice

SB3 File Opener & Player is independent and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Scratch Foundation or MIT. Scratch is a trademark of the Scratch Foundation.