Modern smartphones have turned into digital storage facilities containing thousands of documents, photos and application installation files. However, many users still get confused when it comes to finding a downloaded PDF file or moving music to a specific folder. Understanding how to open a file manager on Androidis a basic skill for effectively managing device memory.
Unlike computers with Windows, where “My Computer” is always at hand, on mobile devices access to the file system can be hidden behind different icons or names. Manufacturers often rename standard applications, which confuses newbies. In this article, we will analyze all the ways to access files, look at the hidden functions of the system and learn how to bypass interface limitations.
Regardless of whether you are using a budget device or a flagship model, the principles of navigation remain similar. We will look at standard system tools and alternative solutions that may be even more convenient than standard ones. A deep understanding of the directory structure will allow you not only to open files, but also to competently organize the space of your gadget.
Searching for a built-in explorer through the app menu
The most obvious, but often ignored, way is to search for a standard application in the general list of apps. Most devices running Android have a pre-installed system explorer, which can have different names. Typically this is “Files”, “My Files”, “File Manager” or simply “Explorer”. To find it, just swipe up from the bottom edge of the screen (or press a special button) to open the all applications menu and carefully look through the list.
Manufacturers often group system utilities into separate folders with names like “Google”, “Tools” or “System”. If you don't see the icon right away, try looking in these groups. On devices from Samsung the application is called “My Files” and has an icon in the form of a folder, and on “pure” Android from Google it is the “Files” application with a colored folder.
⚠️ Attention: Do not delete the system file manager application, even if you do not need it. Removing it may disrupt the work of other apps that rely on it to select files (for example, sending an attachment in mail).
If you cannot find the utility using standard methods, you can use the built-in search. On many shells, simply drag the screen down the center to display a search field. Enter the word “files” or “files” there, and the system itself will tell you where the required tool is hidden. This is especially true for devices with a large amount of installed software.
In some cases, access to full functionality may be limited by user rights. If you want to access system partitions, you may need root access, but for most media and document tasks this is not necessary. Standard access allows you to work with 99% of user data.
Using the search widget and voice assistant
If manual search in the menu seems too long, modern interfaces offer faster launch methods. The Google Assistant voice assistant or its analogues from manufacturers (for example, Bixby) can instantly open the desired section. Just say the command “Open file manager” or “Show my files” and the phone will perform the action automatically.
An alternative method is to use the search widget on the home screen. Instead of the app name, enter the file type you're looking for in the search bar, such as ".jpg" or "invoice." The system will index the content and offer to open an application through which you can view this data. This is an indirect but effective way to get into the file system.
- 🗣️ Activate the voice assistant and clearly say the name of the application.
- 🔍 Use the search bar on your desktop to enter the name "Files".
- 📁 Try searching for a specific file extension to navigate to it.
- 🤖 Set up an application shortcut in the “Favorites” section of the Google search bar.
For those who prefer tactile controls, it is useful to know about the “Quick Settings” function. By swiping down twice from top to bottom, you will see the toggle panel. Sometimes you can find a “Storage” or “Memory” widget there, clicking on which will redirect you to the memory settings, from where you can easily manage files.
Run through storage settings
There is a lesser-known but reliable path to files through system settings. This method is guaranteed to work even in cases where the application icon was accidentally deleted from the desktop or hidden. Go to menu Settings → Memory (or “Storage”, “Device Maintenance”).
Inside the section responsible for internal memory, there is almost always a “Files” or “View files” button. By clicking on it, you will launch the same system file manager. This path is useful when you need to quickly assess what exactly is taking up space on the disk and immediately remove the excess.
It is important to note that in new versions Android 11, 12, 13 and 14 access to some system folders is limited by the security policy Scoped Storage. This means that even through the settings you will not be able to see the files of other applications without special permissions. However, for personal folders like Download, DCIM and Documents, access will be full.
| Android version | Path in settings | Access restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| Android 9-10 | Settings → Memory | Minimum |
| Android 11 | Settings → Storage | Android access/restricted |
| Android 12-13 | Settings → Maintenance → Memory | Strict Scoped Storage |
| Android 14+ | Settings → Storage → Files | Additional. confirmation of rights |
⚠️ Attention: The settings interface may differ depending on the manufacturer’s shell (MIUI, OneUI, ColorOS). If you do not find the “Memory” item, use the search inside the settings themselves by entering the word “Storage.”
Using this method also allows you to see detailed statistics on file types. You will immediately understand that “heavy” videos take up the lion’s share of space, and the messenger cache has grown to gigabytes. This makes navigation through the settings not just a way to open the manager, but also a diagnostic tool.
Installing third-party file managers
If the standard functionality does not suit you or the application is missing, you can always install an alternative from the store Google Play. Third-party developers often offer more flexible tools with support for cloud storage, FTP servers and archivers. Popular options include Total Commander, Solid Explorer or FX File Explorer.
After installing such an application, the icon will appear in the menu and you can open it in one click. Moreover, many third-party managers allow you to replace the default system explorer. This means that when you try to open any file on the system, the application you have chosen will be launched.
☑️ Criteria for choosing a file manager
When installing, pay attention to the requested permissions. A good file manager will ask for access to all files on the device. Without this, it will not be able to perform its main function. It is also worth checking the presence two-panel modewhich is extremely convenient on tablets and smartphones with large screens.
Why are third-party managers better than system ones?
System applications often have reduced functionality, limited by Google policy. Third-party developers can implement support for network protocols (SMB, FTP), work with root access, advanced file selection and batch renaming, which is not available in basic versions.
Don't be afraid to install several managers at the same time. They do not conflict with each other, but only offer different interfaces for working with the same data. You can use one for quick cleaning, and the other for complex document sorting.
Working with access to Android and OBB folders
Starting with Android 11, Google has significantly limited access to system folders Android/data and Android/obb. This is done for security purposes so that applications cannot steal each other's data without being noticed. However, this created a problem for users when trying to install mods for games or clear the cache of specific applications.
To access these hidden areas through the standard explorer, when going to the folder Android the system will display a warning. You must click the “Continue” button, and then in the system window that appears, allow access by selecting the “Allow access to folder” option. This step only needs to be completed once.
- 📂 Go to the root of the internal memory through any file manager.
- 🔐 Click on the folder
Androidand confirm the system warning. - ✅ In the window that opens, click the blue “Use this folder” button.
- 📲 Confirm the action in the “Allow” pop-up dialog.
If the standard explorer refuses to open access even after confirmation (which happens on some shells), you will have to use a third-party application designed to bypass these restrictions, or use a computer with a USB connection. In some cases, enabling USB debugging mode helps.
If you often work with game mods, create a shortcut to the OBB folder on your desktop. Many advanced file managers allow you to add frequently used directories to “Favorites” for instant access.
It is important to understand that manipulations inside a folder data require caution. Deleting a random file may result in game progress being reset or the application not working correctly. Always back up important data before wiping these partitions.
Hidden features and control via PC
For advanced users, there is a way to manage files without directly touching the phone screen. By connecting the device to your computer via a USB cable, you get access to the entire file system as an external drive. When connecting, you must select the “File Transfer” (MTP) mode in the phone menu.
An Explorer window will open on your computer, where you can copy, delete and move files much faster using the keyboard and mouse. This is ideal for bulk sorting photos or downloading heavy video files. The data transfer speed through the cable is much higher than over Wi-Fi.
⚠️ Attention: Do not remove the cable while recording data to the phone. This can lead to file system corruption and loss of information. Always use the "Safely Remove" function on your PC.
It is also worth mentioning the possibility of wireless control. Many modern managers have a “PC Access” feature that creates a local link (for example http://192.168.1.5:1234). By entering this address in your computer browser, you will get full access to your phone's files wirelessly, while on the same Wi-Fi network.
Another hidden function is the ability to launch a file manager via ADB (Android Debug Bridge). For developers and enthusiasts, this is a powerful tool that allows you to pull files from protected sections where regular applications are not allowed. The command adb pull /path/to/file allows you to copy a file from your phone to your computer directly.
The fastest way to transfer photos and videos in bulk is to connect via a USB cable in file transfer mode (MTP).
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Why don't I can I find the WhatsApp or Telegram folder in the file manager?
In new versions of Android, these messengers have changed the data storage path. Look for them along the way: Internal Storage → Android → media → com.whatsapp (or com.telegram). Also check the settings of the messenger itself, sometimes you can change the save directory there.
Is it possible to recover deleted files through a file manager?
A standard file manager usually does not have a recovery function (Recycle Bin), unless it is built in by the manufacturer (as in Samsung or Xiaomi). To restore deleted data, you will need specialized applications or access to a cloud backup of Google Photos or Google Drive.
Is it safe to give the file manager access to all files?
Yes, this is necessary for it to work. Without All Files permission, the application will not be able to show you the contents of the memory. However, download managers only from official sources such as Google Play to avoid malware.
How to open a file manager if the phone screen is broken?
If the sensor works but the image is not visible, you can connect a USB mouse via an OTG adapter. If the sensor does not work, you will need to connect to a PC and use apps to control the screen (for example, Scrcpy), provided that USB debugging is previously enabled.
Where are the screenshots on Android?
By default, screenshots are saved in the folder Pictures → Screenshots or DCIM → Screenshots. They can also be found through the gallery in the “Screenshots” album.