DeviceHowTo
Chromebook⏱ 5 min

How to Transfer Files to Another Device on Chromebook

Move photos, documents, and files wirelessly or via cable to a PC or phone.

Last verified: February 21, 2026

Chromebook is designed around cloud-first file management, with Google Drive serving as the primary storage layer rather than local downloads. The Files app still supports USB drive connections and local downloads, but the path of least resistance for most transfers is saving to or opening from Google Drive directly. For moving files between Chromebook and Android phones, Google's own ecosystem means files saved in Google Photos, Drive, or Keep are instantly accessible on both without any manual transfer step.

Quick Steps

Follow in order for the fastest result.

  1. 1Open the Files app. Use the Share button to send files to Google Drive or use a USB drive via the Files app.
  2. 2Drag files between the device and the File Explorer / Finder window, or confirm Nearby Share / AirDrop acceptance on the target device.
  3. 3Safely eject the device before unplugging the cable.

Still Not Working?

Try these if the steps above didn't help.

Verify the Fix

Confirm everything is fully working before closing this guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the fastest way to transfer files from a phone to Chromebook?
Google Drive offers seamless file access across Chromebook and Android. For large files, a USB drive is faster.
Why is my Chromebook not recognising my phone over USB?
The most common cause is the phone defaulting to Charging Only mode instead of File Transfer when connected. Swipe down on the phone notification bar and tap the USB connection type option, then select File Transfer or MTP. Also try a different cable — many cables are charge-only with no data wires.
Can I transfer files between Chromebook and iPhone wirelessly?
Use Google Drive, which works across Chromebook and iPhone through the browser or iOS app.
How do I transfer files larger than 1 GB on Chromebook?
For files over 1 GB, USB cable transfer is the most reliable option. Cloud services (Google Drive, iCloud, OneDrive) can handle large files but require sufficient storage quota and a fast internet connection for the upload. Wi-Fi Direct methods like AirDrop and Nearby Share handle large files well over local Wi-Fi without using internet data.

Same task, different device

Windows 11Windows 10macOSiPhone (iOS)iPad (iPadOS)Samsung GalaxyGoogle Pixel

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