Locate download manager android

The problem is, it's not always clear where the file you just downloaded was saved on your phone or tablet. When Android first launched, finding files was especially cumbersome due to the fact that not every Android device came with a file manager app. A lot has changed since then. Most Android devices now come with some sort of file manager preinstalled, and for those that don't, there's a better alternative anyway.

Left: Files app on a Pixel 3. By far the easiest way to find downloaded files on Android is to look in your app drawer for an app called Files or My Files. Regardless of which device, once you find and open the file manager, use it to look for the Downloads folder and open it. There you will find your downloaded files in chronological order newest to oldest, in most cases. You can, however, change how the files are sorted. In Samsung's My Files app, tap on the three-dot menu icon and then select "Sort by.

Once you've located your downloaded files, you can open a file with a tap, or bring up more options with a long-press on the file. If you don't like the default file manager app on your Android phone, or it doesn't have one, download the Files by Google app formerly Files Go from the Play Store. Click on the Phone option and scroll down until you find the Downloads folder. Just open it and do whatever you please.

You downloaded an image last week but accidentally erased it from your device. To recover that image, open Chrome, tap the three-dotted menu icon at the top right corner, then tap Downloads to see your list of downloads from the browser. The new and much-improved Microsoft Edge browser is slowly making inroads on Android, and makes it relatively easy to find your downloads. Firefox makes it just as easy to find your downloads. Once you have the browser open, tap on the three vertical dots at the top-right or bottom-right, depending on your personal setup of your display.

To dig a little deeper still into your Android directories, you should read our guide on how to install TWRP Recovery. By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy and European users agree to the data transfer policy.

Crystal Crowder has spent over 15 years working in the tech industry, first as an IT technician and then as a writer. She works to help teach others how to get the most from their devices, systems, and apps. She stays on top of the latest trends and is always finding solutions to common tech problems. You've decided to leave a comment. That's fantastic!

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