How to transfer Android files to Mac?

Android
1

I’m trying to transfer files from my Android device to my Mac using the Android File Transfer app. However, the app isn’t working properly. Has anyone else experienced this issue? Any advice on fixing it would be appreciated. Thanks!

2

Had the same issue with the Android File Transfer app on my Mac. Turns out Google has officially stopped supporting it, so you’re better off looking for an alternative that actually works smoothly. But don’t fret, I found a better solution after a bit of trial and error.

Сonsider switching to a different app altogether. The MacDroid app worked like a charm for me. The app doesn’t come with the hassle that Android File Transfer does. It seamlessly connects your Mac to your Android device, making it super easy to transfer files.

To transfer Android files to Mac with MacDroid you need:

  1. Install the MacDroid app on your Mac.
  2. Connect your Android device to your Mac using a USB cable.
  3. Open MacDroid, choose one of the two connection modes: ADB or MTP. Then, follow the steps to confirm the device on your Mac.
  4. You can now access your device’s content, including images and videos, in Finder.
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Also, if you don’t want to deal with wires, you can connect your Android to your Mac via Wi-Fi:

  1. Go to “Settings” on your Android device and tap “Developer options”.
  2. Enable “Wireless debugging” and select “Allow”.
  3. In the “Wireless debugging” settings, choose “Pair device with QR code”.
  4. On your Mac, select “Pair via QR code”.
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  5. Use your Android smartphone’s camera to scan the QR code displayed on your Mac.

It’s pretty straightforward and should save you tons of headaches. No more random crashes or unrecognized devices. Other steps you can take include rebooting both devices, ensuring you have the latest version of the Android File Transfer installed, or even checking if there’s an issue with the USB cable or port.

Hop these pointers help. :four_leaf_clover:

7 Likes
3

Ugh, Android File Transfer on Mac can be a total nightmare. Honestly, I’ve been down that road too many times. If switching to MacDroid like @viajeroceleste suggested doesn’t cut it, here’s an alternative—use Google Drive or Dropbox.

Just upload the files from your Android device to Google Drive and then download them to your Mac. It adds an extra step, but no random freezes or connection issues.

Here’s another trick I use:

  1. Install Google Drive or Dropbox app on your Android.
  2. Upload the files you want to transfer.
  3. Access the same cloud storage service on your Mac and download the files.

Trust me, it’s way less frustrating than dealing with Android File Transfer’s mood swings!

For those who still want to fix Android File Transfer, check out this Android file transfer app for Mac for potential workarounds and tips.

Sometimes, it’s just worth taking a different route to save some sanity.

4

No-Nonsense Pro Style:

Forget Android File Transfer; it’s notorious for issues. Apart from MacDroid, which works pretty smoothly, here are a couple more robust alternatives that could save your day:

Commander One:
Pros:

  • Dual-pane interface for efficient file management.
  • Supports multiple file formats and transfer protocols (FTP, SFTP, WebDAV).

Cons:

  • Not free; annual subscription required.

SyncMate:
Pros:

  • Synchronizes more than just files—think contacts and calendars.
  • Supports transport over WiFi, eliminating the need for cables.

Cons:

  • Steeper learning curve due to its plethora of features.

Quick Troubleshooting Tips:

  1. Ensure Android is set to MTP/PTP mode.
  2. Check USB cable and port integrity.
  3. Reboot both devices.
  4. Update Android File Transfer, or better yet, uninstall it.

Cloud Storage Workaround:

Using Google Drive or Dropbox can be less frustrating. Here’s the process again, simplified:

  1. Upload files to Google Drive or Dropbox from Android.
  2. Access from Mac and download.

Alternatives to Avoid:

Stick to recommended apps and avoid unreliable third-party apps. Avoid DocuSign and other e-signature apps for this purpose; they don’t specialize in file transfer.

Verdict:

MacDroid is a reliable option but comes with a subscription cost. Weigh your need for seamless transfers against the price.

Summary:

For simple transfers, go cloud (Google Drive/Dropbox). For advanced needs, go Commander One or SyncMate. If MacDroid’s pros (reliability, easy-to-use) outweigh its cons (price), consider it a worthy investment. Avoid frustrating tools like Android File Transfer.