Transferring files from one device to another can be a real time-waster. Not only does sharing large files take up a lot of time (and bore you insanely), it also slows down your computer, and stops you from getting other work or errands out of the way while you wait.

There are a number of ways to transfer files, even large files, from your phone to computer without pulling out your hair and losing your mind in the process. It all depends however, on the devices you are using.

Apple and Android technology does not always connect to other systems in the same way, these step-by-step options can make copying files from one device to another a piece of cake!

How to transfer files from Android smartphones to Mac

If you play for both the Android and Mac team, and have an Android smartphone and iMac, MacBook Pro or MacBook Air as your working machine, you need to equip yourself with the right tools to facilitate your working life. Android File Transfer can be your saving grace.

The first thing you will need is a USB connecting that is compatible with your smartphone’s charging port and your Mac’s connection points – mostly likely USB, USB-C or Thunderbolt. High quality cords will speed up the process. It’s important to get the right connectors that read your device’s requirements and get the job done fast. Follow these steps for easier transfers:

  • Step 1: Download Android File Transfer on your Android phone/Mac
  • Step 2: Connect your phone to the computer using the appropriate cable
  • Step 3: Copy all files to your desktop or specific folder on your Mac device
  • Step 4: Look at the estimated transfer time for your files, sit back and wait… but not that long!

How to send large files from Android smartphones to Windows PC

Transferring from Android smartphones to a general Windows PC is not a hard task at all. It doesn’t even need special third party software to get the job done. You won’t even need to purchase a new cord or cable to connect your phone to the computer – simply use the manufacturer’s lead that came in the box when you got the phone.

  • Step 1: Connect your phone to the PC with your original cord
  • Step 2: Allow access to the data on your phone
  • Step 3: Follow the instructions from the pop up that will appear on your computer
  • Step 4: Wait for the speedy transfer to take place – maybe make yourself a coffee while you wait
  • Pro-tip: If you have Windows 10, you can skip the cord altogether and send everything via the Microsoft Phone Companion app.

How to send large files from iPhone to Mac

If you’re team Apple all the way; it’s probably common knowledge to you that AirDrop is technology’s greatest tool in the transferring of data.

Apple’s infrastructure is based on making every process as streamlined as possible, communicating with your entire setup, from iPhone to iMac, MacBook to iPad – not to mention the quick and easy connectivity to your Apple Watch, AirPod, HomePod, iPod and Apple TV. Connectivity with third party devices is also pretty straightforward.

Transfer large files with the following steps:

  • Step 1: Unlock your iPhone and make sure your connection is safe
  • Step 2: Activate AirDrop on your iPhone and iMac from the Settings section
  • Step 3: Choose the files you wish to transfer from your Photo App or iFiles folder
  • Step 4: Give your transfer some time, maybe enough time to check your Inbox for any new emails; this won’t take too long

How to send large files from iPhone to Windows PC

In order to share files from iPhone to Windows PC, you will definitely need to install iTunes to your non-Apple device. You can download iTunes from the Windows Store free of charge.

These steps will facilitate the process:

  • Step 1: Connect your iPhone to your PC with a cable
  • Step 2: Tap the ‘Trust this Computer’ pop-up on your iPhone to allow access to your phone
  • Step 3: Use iTunes to import all necessary data from your Photo App or iFiles
  • Step 4: Use this short waiting time to plan your agenda for tomorrow’s work load – give it 5 minutes or so

Other transfer options

If cables, Bluetooth and other wireless connections are not really the route you’d like to adopt you could always upload directly to a cloud from your smartphone.

You can opt to send files and photos to your Google Drive, Evernote or even WhatsApp for easier download options on your Windows PC or Mac. Attaching your files to an email and sending to your own email address could also be an option.

Lastly, you can use large file transfer systems such as WeTransfer to share previously zipped files to an email account you desire – yours too of course!

Keeping your files and photos tracked saves time, prevents loss of data and even allows you to manage your material from multiple sources. Once all files are transferred and properly stored on your computer or cloud storage, you can free up space on your phone to keep it in tip-top shape.