While Android hides its complex file structure to keep things simple, mastering the Files by Google app (or your device’s default File Manager) is crucial for controlling your storage, organizing downloads, and securely moving large files. This tutorial will guide you through becoming a master of your device’s internal storage.
Section 1: Navigating the File Manager App
The File Manager is where all your device’s data—photos, documents, downloads, and app data—lives.
- Locate the App: Look for the app named Files (usually with a folder icon) or My Files (on Samsung/other OEM devices).
- Understand the Sections: The main screen is often divided into:
- Categories: Quick links to major file types like Images, Videos, Audio, and Documents.
- Storage Devices: Shows your Internal Storage and any inserted SD Card (if applicable).
- Clean: A built-in feature to safely delete junk files, large duplicates, and rarely used apps (a great way to free up space!).
- Key Action: Moving & Organizing Files
- Navigate to the source folder (e.g., Download folder).
- Select the File(s): Tap and hold the file you want to move. A checkbox will appear. Select multiple files if needed.
- Use the Menu: Tap the three-dot menu (…) or the Move icon (a clipboard with an arrow).
- Choose Destination: Select your new location (e.g., Internal Storage > My Documents folder) and tap Move here.
Section 2: The Two Essential Ways to Share Files
Sharing files—especially large ones—is a core task. Android offers two best methods:
- Method 1: Google’s Nearby Share (The Fastest Local Transfer)
- Nearby Share uses Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Direct to securely and quickly send files to any nearby Android device, Chromebook, or Windows PC (with the right software installed).
- Select File: Find the file(s) you want to send in your Gallery or File Manager.
- Tap Share: Tap the standard Share icon (<).
- Select Nearby Share: Choose the Nearby Share option from the list.
- Confirm Receiver: Wait for the receiving device’s name to appear on your screen, tap it, and have the recipient tap Accept on their device.
- Pro Tip: Ensure Bluetooth and Location are turned on for both devices for Nearby Share to function correctly.
- Method 2: Sharing to the Cloud (The Safest Backup)
- For security and cross-device access, sharing to Google Drive or Google Photos is the best option.
- Select File: Choose the file(s) in your File Manager.
- Tap Share: Tap the Share icon (<).
- Select Google Drive (or Photos): Choose Drive to store documents or general files, or Photos for images and videos.
- Confirm & Upload: Choose the folder in your Drive and tap Save. Your data is now securely backed up and accessible from any device or PC.
Section 3: Freeing Up Space with the “Clean” Tab
One of the most valuable features of modern Android File Managers is the integrated cleaning tool.
- Open the File Manager and go to the Clean tab (or a similar section like “Storage Analysis”).
- Review Suggestions: The app safely identifies data you likely don’t need:
- Junk Files: Temporary files, caches, and residual data.
- Duplicate Files: Exactly identical copies of photos or documents.
- Large Files: Media and videos over a certain size (e.g., 100MB).
- Memes and Screenshots: Often grouped for easy bulk deletion.
- Tap ‘Clean’ or ‘Delete’: Select the categories you want to clear and tap the button to confirm. This is a very safe way to free up gigabytes of space without risking personal data.