How to Transfer Photos with File Sync

File Sync is designed to move selected photos, videos, documents, music, and other files between supported mobile devices and computers. Choose local Wi-Fi for convenience or USB for a stable large transfer, copy into a clearly named destination folder, and verify the received files before deleting anything from the source device.

Choose the transfer path

Feature availability and connection steps can vary by platform and app version. Use the instructions displayed by the current app.

Prepare a clean destination

Create a staging folder on the computer before starting. A name such as Phone Photos 2026-08-20 gives the transfer a clear boundary. Check available disk space, especially when moving long or high-resolution videos.

On the phone:

1. Review the selected album or date range.
2. Remove obvious screenshots or duplicates only if doing so is safe.
3. Note the expected photo and video counts.
4. Keep the phone on power for a large job.
5. Avoid editing, moving, or deleting the source files during transfer.

Transfer over local Wi-Fi

Connect the phone and computer to the same trusted network. Start File Sync’s local transfer feature and open the address it provides in the computer browser. Select the desired media and transfer it into the prepared folder.

Keep the app open until the batch completes. Do not use public Wi-Fi, expose the transfer interface to the internet, or leave the session running after you finish.

Transfer over USB

Connect the phone with a trusted cable and follow the current File Sync and operating-system prompts. Unlock the device only when required, choose the selected media, and leave both devices connected until completion. If the connection drops, inspect what arrived before restarting so you do not create unnecessary duplicates.

Verify the media

Before cleanup:

• Compare the destination count with the selected source count.
• Open old and recent photos.
• Inspect a portrait and landscape image.
• Play the longest video through its final seconds.
• Confirm that file sizes are plausible.
• Check dates and filenames important to your organization.

Create a backup of the verified destination if the media is irreplaceable. Transfer moves files; it does not automatically create a resilient backup.

The current Apple App Store and Google Play listings are the source of truth for supported platforms, formats, purchase requirements, and current transfer features.