Receive files or apps from people nearby

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.

1. On your Android device, open Files by Google .
2. On the bottom right, select the "Share" tab .
3. Tap Receive.
   1. If this is your first time using Files by Google, accept the permission requests. Learn more about permission requests.
   2. If you haven’t set up your username, follow the prompts to create one.
4. After the sender taps your name, you’re asked to accept the connection. Tap Connect.
5. Wait for your friend to send you files. When the files show up on your screen, tap to open them.
6. Optional: To send a file or app to the sender, tap Send files.
7. To disconnect, tap Back .
8. On the confirmation pop up, tap Disconnect.
9. To view files:
   1. Select the “Browse” tab .
   2. Select a category.
   3. Tap Received files.

If you can't connect after 1 minute, try the following steps:

1. Bring your devices closer together.
2. Make sure Bluetooth is turned on.
3. Make sure the location setting is turned on.
4. Cancel the connection. Turn airplane mode on, then off. Try connecting again.
5. Ask the other person to send a file to you. If you get it, send them something in the same session.