Files by Google is a free file manager from Google that does much more than browse folders. It finds junk files, removes duplicates, frees up space, shares files offline with nearby phones and can lock private files behind a PIN. Many Android phones already have it installed. This guide shows how to use its most helpful features.
Key takeaways
- Install Files by Google from Google Play if it is not already on your phone.
- The Clean tab suggests junk, duplicates and large files to remove.
- Quick Share sends files to nearby devices without using mobile data.
- Safe folder keeps private files behind a PIN or pattern.
What this guide covers
- What Files by Google does
- Clean up storage
- Browse and organise files
- Share files offline
- Keep private files in Safe folder
- Is it worth using?
- FAQs
What Files by Google does
| Feature | What it is for |
|---|---|
| Clean | Find and delete junk, duplicates, old screenshots and large files |
| Browse | See files by category: downloads, images, videos, documents, apps |
| Quick Share | Send files to nearby Android devices quickly |
| Safe folder | Lock private documents and photos with a PIN or pattern |
| Search | Find files by name across the phone |
Clean up storage
Open the app and tap Clean. Files shows cards such as Junk files, Duplicate files, Large files, Old screenshots and Unused apps. Each card shows how much space you can recover. Tap a card, review the items and choose what to delete.
Tip: Always open the card and review the list before deleting. “Large files” may include videos you want to keep, so move those to cloud storage or a computer first.
For more ways to recover space, read our guide on freeing up storage on Android.
Browse and organise files
- Tap Browse to see files sorted into categories such as Downloads, Images, Videos, Audio and Documents.
- Long-press a file to select it, then move, copy, rename or delete it.
- Use Favourites to pin files you open often.
- Use the search bar to find a file by name.
Share files offline
Files supports Quick Share (previously Nearby Share), which sends photos, videos, documents and apps to nearby Android phones using Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, without using your mobile data. Both phones need Quick Share turned on and should be close together. It is a fast way to move large videos between family phones.
Keep private files in Safe folder
- Tap Browse and scroll to Collections > Safe folder.
- Choose a PIN or pattern.
- Select files elsewhere in the app and choose Move to Safe folder.
Remember your PIN. Files in Safe folder are protected on the device. If you forget the PIN or uninstall the app, you may lose access to them, so keep a backup of important files.
Is it worth using?
For most people, yes. It is free, light and made by Google. Its cleaning suggestions are clear and reviewable, which makes it safer than “cleaner” apps that promise to speed up your phone. Phones from Samsung and other brands include their own file managers, and those work well too; Files by Google is a good extra tool mainly for its cleaning and sharing features.
FAQs
Is Files by Google safe?
Yes. It is an official Google app available on Google Play.
Does it delete files automatically?
No. It suggests files to remove, and you choose what to delete.
Can I use it on Samsung phones?
Yes. You can install it from Google Play and use it alongside Samsung’s My Files app.
Sources: Files by Google Help. Menu names can differ slightly between phone brands and Android versions.