How to quickly send a file via Wi-Fi from Android to Android: all working methods

Transferring files between smartphones via Android remains one of the most convenient ways to exchange data - faster than via Bluetooth, and without consuming mobile traffic. However, not all users know that there are at least five options for such transfer: from built-in operating system functions to specialized applications with encryption. In this article, we will analyze each method in detail, taking into account speed, file size limitations and compatibility with different versions Wi-Fi remains one of the most convenient ways to exchange data - faster than Bluetooth, and without consuming mobile traffic. However, not all users know that there are at least five options for such transfer: from built-in operating system functions to specialized applications with encryption. In this article we will analyze each method in detail, taking into account speed, file size limitations and compatibility with different versions. Android (from Android 8.0 Oreo to Android 15).

We will pay special attention to the problem of “invisibility” of devices on the local network a common reason why the transfer fails halfway. We will also compare which method is better to choose for sending heavy videos (4K, 60 FPS), archives or packages of small photos. If you urgently need to transfer a document to a colleague or transfer a backup copy to a new phone, here you will find the optimal solution.

1 Built-in Nearby Share function - without installation. applications

Nearby Share (formerly Android Beam) is a "native" tool Google for exchanging files between devices on Android (starting from version 6.0 Marshmallow). Works through a combination Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth and hotspot, automatically selecting the fastest channel. The main advantage is that you don’t need to download anything: the function is already built into the system.

To send a file:

• 📂 Open the application Files (or any other where your file is stored) and select the desired data.
• 🔗 Click "Share" → in the list of options, select Nearby sharing (Nearby Share).
• 📱 Make sure that Bluetooth i Wi-Fiis enabled on the receiving device, and the Nearby Share settings are set to "All" contacts" or "All devices".
• 🔄 Wait until the devices detect each other and confirm the transfer on both phones.

Transfer speed depends on the file size and version Android:

• 📄 Documents (PDF, DOCX) - instantly (1-2 seconds).
• 📷 Photo (10-20 MB) - 3-5 seconds.
• 🎥 Full HD video (1-2 GB) - up to 2-3 minutes.

⚠️ Attention: If the devices do not see each other, check if the transmission is blocking power saving mode or VPN. On some firmware (for example, MIUI or ColorOS) Nearby Share may conflict with proprietary sharing functions (for example, Xiaomi Quick Share).

2. Google Files application: transfer without the Internet over a local network

Application Google Files (formerly Files Go) offers a built-in tool for transferring files via Wi-Fi without an Internet connection. Unlike Nearby Share, here you can send entire folders, and not just individual files. 10-15 MB/s —this is 2-3 times faster than Bluetooth.

Step by step instructions:

1. Install Google Files on both devices (if not already installed).
2. On the sending phone, open the tab Share → Send.
3. Select files or folders, then press Next.
4. On the receiving device, open Google Files, go to Exchange → Receive.
5. Scan the QR code from the recipient's screen or select his device from list.

Advantages of the method:

• 🔒 No restrictions on file size (tested on archives up to 20 GB).
• 📡 Works even if mobile data is disabled on the phone.
• 📂 Can be sent several folders at the same time.

Parameter	Nearby Share	Google Files
Max. file size	2 GB (system limit)	Unlimited
Transfer speed	5-8 MB/s	10-15 MB/s
Internet required?	No	No
Folder support	No	Yes

⚠️ Attention: On some devices Samsung with firmware One UI Google Files may conflict with the proprietary application Samsung My Files. Before transferring, close all background processes via Settings → Applications.

3. LocalSend: an open analogue of AirDrop for Android

LocalSend is a free open source application that works on the principle of Apple AirDrop, but for Android, Windows, Linux and even iOS. The main difference from Nearby Share is there are no file size restrictions and no Google account required.

How to use:

• 📥 Install LocalSend to both devices from Google Play or F-Droid.
• 🔄 Make sure both phones are connected to same Wi-Fi network (or enable a hotspot on one of them).
• 📎 On the sending device, select the file → "Send" → select the recipient from the list.
• 🔐 On the receiving device, confirm receipt (you can set a password for additional security).

Pros of LocalSend:

• 🌐 Cross-platform (works even with a PC).
• 🔒 Transfer encryption (optional).
• 📊 Transfer history is saved in the application.

Cons:

• ⚠️ On some firmware (for example, Flyme or Realme UI) may require location permissions to work.
• 📶 With a weak Wi-Fi signal, the speed drops to 1-2 MB/s.

How to speed up transmission in LocalSend?

If the speed is low, try:

1. Connect to a 5 GHz network instead of 2.4 GHz.

2. Disable power saving mode on both devices.

3. Close background applications that use the network (for example, torrents or cloud synchronization).

4. FTP server via ES Explorer or Solid Explorer

For advanced users who need to transfer large amounts of data (for example, backups or RAW photos), the method of launching FTP server on one of the devices is suitable. This allows you to connect to your phone as a network drive and download files through any browser or file manager.

Instructions for Solid Explorer:

1. Open Solid Explorer and go to the side menu → Network → FTP server.
2. Click "Start server" - an address like this will appear ftp://192.168.x.x:xxxx.
3. On the second device, open any file manager (or browser) and enter this address.
4. Enter your login and password (often by default anonymous no password).
5. Download files as from a regular server.

Advantages of FTP:

• 📥 You can transfer several files at the same time.
• 🖥️ Works not only with Android, but also with PC/Mac.
• 🔧 Flexible settings (port, authentication, root folder).

⚠️ Attention: FTP protocol does not encrypt traffic. If you are transmitting confidential data, use SFTP (available in Solid Explorer when connecting to an SSH server).

5. Hotspot + folder sharing (for large files)

If you need to transfer tens of gigabytes (for example, a backup Titanium Backup or a collection of videos), the most reliable way is to create Wi-Fi hotspot on one phone and connect the second phone to it. Then, on the first device, open shared access to the folder via a file manager, and on the second, connect to it as a network drive.

Step-by-step guide:

1. On the sending phone, enable modem mode (Settings → Network and Internet → Access point and modem).
2. Connect a second phone to this access point (the password will be displayed on the screen).
3. On the sending phone, open Solid Explorer or FX File Explorer, select a folder and click "Network sharing" (SMB).
4. On the second phone, enter the view address \\192.168.43.x\folder in the file manager.

This method is suitable for:

• 🎬 Video transmission in resolution 8K or high bitrate.
• 🗄️ Transferring application backups (.apk, .zip).
• 📁 Synchronizing large catalogs (for example, music in the format FLAC).

6. Problems and errors: why files are not transferred via Wi-Fi

Even with the correct settings, file transfer via Wi-Fi here are the most common reasons and solutions:

Problem	Possible cause	Solution
Devices do not see each other	Bluetooth or Wi-Fi Direct is disabled	Turn on both modules and restart your phones
Transmission is cut off at 50%	Weak Wi-Fi signal or power saving	Connect to a 5 GHz network or disable power saving mode
Error "Unable to connect"	VPN or firewall is blocking the connection	Turn off the VPN and check your firewall settings
Slow speed (less than 1 MB/s)	Wi-Fi channel is overloaded	Switch to another channel in the router settings

If all else fails:

• 🔄 Reboot both devices.
• 📱 Check if the transmission is blocked antivirus (for example, Avast or Kaspersky).
• 🔧 Reset the network settings (Settings → System → Reset → Reset Wi-Fi, mobile network and Bluetooth).

⚠️ Attention: On devices with Android 14+ and Android 15 applications like LocalSend or Google Files may be required. permission to access local. networks for applications like LocalSend or Google Files. Go to Settings → Applications → Permissions → Local network access and enable it for the desired application.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about transferring files over Wi-Fi

Can I transfer files over Wi-Fi if the phone does not have a SIM card?

Yes, for transmission via Wi-Fi Direct or via hotspot a SIM card is not needed. The main thing is that both devices support Wi-Fi and are turned on.

Which is the fastest method for transmitting video? 4K?

For large video files (>1 GB), it is optimal to use FTP server or sharing via SMB through a hotspot. The speed can reach 20-30 MB/s (on Wi-Fi 6).

Why does Nearby Share not work on my Xiaomi?

On smartphones Xiaomi, Redmi i POCO may conflict with a proprietary function Mi Share. Disable it in the settings (Settings → Connections and sharing → Mi Share) and restart the phone.

Can I transfer files between Android and iPhone via Wi-Fi?

Yes, but only via cross-platform applications like LocalSend or Snapdrop (web service). Built-in functions Nearby Share and AirDrop are not compatible between these OSs.

How to cancel a file transfer if it is stuck?

If the transfer is stuck at 0% or 100%:

1. Close the application through which the exchange is taking place.
2. Disable and enable again Wi-Fi.
3. Delete the partially downloaded file in the folder Download or Files.