Transfer files between Android phones in 3 steps
- Open localfiletransfer.com on both phones in Chrome. Each phone shows its name and model at the top of the card.
- Tap the other phone, then pick the files. Choose photos, videos, documents or anything else. You can select many at once.
- Tap Accept on the other phone, then Save. Files land in the Downloads folder, where your gallery and file apps can see them.
Tip: on mobile data or different Wi-Fi? Tap Nearby devices → Create a code on one phone and scan the QR code with the other.
Quick Share or a browser: which to use?
Quick Share is built into most Android phones and is the quickest choice when it works. A browser method helps when:
- Quick Share can’t see the other phone, or it’s set to Contacts only and you’re not in each other’s contacts.
- One phone is older or doesn’t have Quick Share.
- The phones are in different places or on different networks.
- You also want to send to an iPhone or a computer from the same page.
Moving everything to a new Android phone
To move apps, contacts and settings to a new phone, use the copy option during the new phone’s setup (Samsung phones also offer Smart Switch). Use this page afterwards for the photos, videos and files that didn’t come across.
Other ways to move files between Android phones
| Method | Install | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Local File Transfer (this page) | Nothing | Any two phones, any network |
| Quick Share | Built in | Phones close together |
| Google Drive or Photos | App and account | Files you also want backed up |
| Bluetooth | Built in | One small file; slow for videos |
If the other phone doesn’t appear
- Check the Wi-Fi. Both devices must be on the same network. Guest networks often keep devices apart.
- Turn off VPNs and ad-blocking apps while you transfer.
- Tap Scan at the top of the card for a fresh search.
- Use a code. On one device, tap Nearby devices → Create a code; on the other, tap Enter a code or scan the QR code. This works even on different networks or mobile data.
Questions
How do I transfer files from one Android phone to another without an app?
Open localfiletransfer.com in Chrome on both phones on the same Wi-Fi. Tap the other phone, pick the files, then accept and save them on the receiving phone.
Why can’t Quick Share find the other phone?
Quick Share may be set to Contacts only, Bluetooth or location may be off, or the phones may be too far apart. A browser method avoids these because it uses your Wi-Fi or a six-digit code.
Does it work between Samsung, Pixel, Xiaomi and other brands?
Yes. Any Android phone with an up-to-date Chrome works, whatever the brand.
Where do the received files go?
In the Downloads folder. Google Photos shows them under On this device, Download.
Can I send large videos?
Yes. We set no size limit. Keep both screens on until the transfer finishes.