This wikiHow teaches you how to find and access your Android's file manager.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Using your Android's file manager
Step #1. Open your Android's apps drawer
This is the icon made of several smaller squares or dots. You can usually find it at the bottom of the home screen.
If you're using a Samsung Galaxy 8, you'll need to swipe up from the bottom of the screen to open the apps drawer
Step #2. Tap on File Manager
The name of this app may vary so if you File Manager if you don't see it, look for My files, File Browser or File Explorer. This displays a list of files and folders on your Android.
- If you don't have a file manager, check out this wikiHow to learn how to get one.
- If you use the app Downloads in the apps drawer, you may be able to use it to browse the files. Tap it and then ☰ to view additional folders.
Step #3. Tap on a folder to view its contents
If you have an SD card, you can probably browse through it by tapping its name. If not, tap Internal storage (or Internal memory) to browse the files.
Step #4. Tap on a file to view it
The selected file will open in its default app.
- For example, tapping a photo will open it in the gallery or in the photo manager app.
- Certain file types, such as documents and spreadsheets, may require you to download an app to view them.
Method 2 of 2: Using the storage app
Step #1. Open the Settings on Android
This is it
usually found in the apps drawer or home screen. You can also find it in the notification bar.
Step #2. Scroll down and tap on Storage
This will open a list of storage locations on your Android, such as the SD card (if you have one) and internal storage.
Step #3. Scroll down and tap Explore
If you don't see this option, you probably need to select internal or removable storage first. A confirmation message will now appear.
Step #4. Tap Explore to confirm
You can now access the files and folders on your Android.
- This option is sometimes also Miscellaneous called.
Step 5. Tap a file to view it
The selected file will open in its default app.
- For example, tapping a photo will open it in the gallery or in the photo manager app.
- Certain types of files, such as documents and spreadsheets, may require you to download an app to view them.