Transferring data from computers to phones and phones to tablets can be confusing and time consuming.
It doesn’t need to be.
You don’t need a fancy data transfer calculator to figure out how to move a file from point A to point B.
The key is simply to pick a method that is easy, reliable, and relatively fast. You do not need to reinvent the wheel.
5 Considerations for Device Transfer of Data
Before you start moving files around, you should consider the following before choosing your method of data transfer:
1. What Devices are You Using?
To transfer data from computer to phone will require a different strategy than data transfer phone to phone. Some phones may offer direct file transfer via Bluetooth, whereas with a computer, you may need to use a cable or upload your files.
2. Who Are You Sharing Files With?
If you are just trying to backup your own files, that will require a different strategy than sending a photo to a friend. It also depends on how tech-savvy your friend is, or how they prefer to receive files. Some people might prefer email, and others might like having something shared via text message.
3. How Many Files Do You Want to Share or Transfer?
Sharing one file is a lot different than transferring 10, 20, 50, 100, or more individual files.
4. What Types of Files and How Big Are They?
Sending a photo to another phone via text message or email can be quick and easy. However, if you have a 750 MB large video file, you simply cannot use text messaging. You won’t be able to use email either.
5. Do You Need to Share Data and Files on a Regular Basis?
If you are sharing files back and forth with a friend or colleague, you might want to set up a permanent space for the file swapping.
7 Popular Ways to Transfer Files and Data
You don’t necessarily need anything fancy to transfer data from your phone to another device such as a computer desktop or portable tablet. Here are just a few of the methods:
1. Text Messaging
This method is best when you have a small number of files that are not too large. Text messaging is a great way to send photos as well as very short, small videos.
2. Email
Don’t forget about email as a way to transfer files. Even on your phone, you can send a file via email often using the “share” icon. This will take you to the email application, where you can write a message and send the file anywhere.
Just remember, most email services have limits on the file size sent via email. You will not be able to send huge files this way.
3. Cloud Services
Cloud storage services such as Dropbox, Google Drive, and Microsoft’s OneDrive are great places to upload files and share them with others. The nice thing about using these services is that you also have a backup of the file on the service once you upload it. You will also be able to transfer and share larger files this way (within reason).
4. Direct Connection
When you plug your smartphone or tablet into a computer via USB, usually a message will pop up asking if you want to grant the computer permission to access your photos or files. You should indicate yes if you want to transfer those files.
The challenge with this method, particularly with Android, is figuring out where those files are. Some phones have software that you can install onto your desktop to make this easier.
5. Bluetooth
Some smartphones, such as the iPhone, have the option to share files via Bluetooth. This usually only works out of the box with a similar device from the same manufacturer. However, you can use a Bluetooth sharing app like Bluetooth File Share for Android to share with family and friends. Even so, the general rule is that Android will only share with Android, and iOS will only share with iOS.
6. Miscellaneous Services
Sometimes, the best way to share a large media file is to simply upload it to a video service such as YouTube or Video. You can make it private and then share it only with the people you want to give access to.
7. Torrents
For files you want to share with everyone, you can set up a torrent and share with the world.
File Sharing Can be Easy
Whether you have a desktop computer, a laptop, tablet, or smartphone, sharing and transferring data is a lot easier than it used to be. You have a lot of options, including email, text messaging, and Bluetooth. If one method doesn’t work, try another.