The peer to peer (P2P) sharing feature in Files by Google lets you send and receive files and apps without using mobile data or connecting to Wi-Fi. To share files with people nearby, all users must have the Files by Google app. If you haven't already, get the app from the Play Store.
Important:
- Only share files that you're legally allowed to share. Read our Terms of Service and user policy for more information.
- Files by Google automatically turns on Bluetooth when you send or receive files.
- Files by Google uses an encrypted connection to protect your private data.
Receive a file
- On your Android device, open Files by Google
.
- On the bottom right, select the "Share" tab
.
- Tap Receive.
- If this is your first time using Files by Google, accept the permission requests. Learn more about permission requests.
- If you haven’t set up your username, follow the prompts to create one.
- After the sender taps your name, you’re asked to accept the connection. Tap Connect.
- Wait for your friend to send you files. When the files show up on your screen, tap to open them.
- Optional: To send a file or app to the sender, tap Send files.
- To disconnect, tap Back
.
- On the confirmation pop up, tap Disconnect.
- To view files:
- Select the “Browse” tab
.
- Select a category.
- Tap Received files.
- Select the “Browse” tab
Troubleshooting: SD card undetected issue
Unable to send or receive files
If you can't connect after 1 minute, try the following steps:
- Bring your devices closer together.
- Make sure Bluetooth is turned on.
- Make sure the location setting is turned on.
- Cancel the connection. Turn airplane mode on, then off. Try connecting again.
- Ask the other person to send a file to you. If you get it, send them something in the same session.