Sharing Files Over Wi-Fi Between iPhone and Samsung: Step-by-Step

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If you’ve ever tried to share files between an iPhone and a Samsung phone, you probably noticed it’s not as seamless as sharing between two iPhones (AirDrop) or two Samsungs (Quick Share). The two ecosystems—iOS and Android—are different, but the good news is that you can still share files wirelessly over Wi-Fi without losing quality.

This guide walks you through the step-by-step methods to transfer files between iPhone and Samsung using Wi-Fi-based solutions.

Why Use Wi-Fi for File Sharing?

  • Speed: Faster than Bluetooth, especially for large files like videos.
  • No cables: Wireless transfers eliminate the need for USB connections.
  • Quality: Unlike MMS or compressed messengers, Wi-Fi transfers keep the original file size and resolution intact.

Method 1: Using Google Drive (Cloud + Wi-Fi)

Google Drive is one of the easiest cross-platform options for sharing files over Wi-Fi.

Steps (iPhone to Samsung)

  1. On your iPhone, install and open the Google Drive app.
  2. Tap the “+” icon → Upload → Select your files (photos, videos, documents).
  3. Once uploaded, tap the file → Share → Copy the link.
  4. On your Samsung device, open the link in Google Drive or a browser.
  5. Download the file.

✅ Best for: Large files, multiple files, cross-device compatibility.
❌ Downside: Requires internet connection and uses your cloud storage quota.

Method 2: Send Anywhere (Direct Wi-Fi Transfer)

Send Anywhere is a third-party app that uses Wi-Fi Direct to transfer files between iPhone and Samsung without the internet.

Steps

  1. Install Send Anywhere on both iPhone and Samsung.
  2. On the iPhone, open the app → select files → tap Send.
  3. A 6-digit key or QR code will appear.
  4. On the Samsung, open the app → tap Receive → enter the code or scan the QR.
  5. Files transfer directly over Wi-Fi.

✅ Best for: High-speed, local transfers without mobile data.
❌ Downside: Both devices must have the app installed.

Method 3: SHAREit (Wi-Fi Direct + Hotspot)

SHAREit is another popular option that creates a direct Wi-Fi hotspot between devices.

Steps

  1. Install SHAREit on both devices.
  2. On the iPhone, open the app → choose files → tap Send.
  3. The Samsung device should open SHAREit → tap Receive.
  4. The app will connect via Wi-Fi Direct, and the transfer begins.

✅ Best for: Large files and cross-platform transfers.
❌ Downside: Ads and extra features can make the app cluttered.

Method 4: Email or Messaging Apps Over Wi-Fi

If your files are small, you can use email or messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, or Signal. These apps rely on Wi-Fi (or mobile data) for transfers.

Steps

  1. Attach the file in an email or chat.
  2. Send it to your own email or the recipient’s app.
  3. Download on the other device.

✅ Best for: Small, quick files.
❌ Downside: File size limits (WhatsApp = 100MB for documents, Gmail = 25MB).

Method 5: Local Network File Sharing (Advanced Users)

If both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network, you can use file-sharing apps like FE File Explorer or Documents by Readdle to set up a local file server.

Steps

  1. Install FE File Explorer on both devices.
  2. Connect both to the same Wi-Fi network.
  3. Set one device as a temporary file server.
  4. Use the other device to access and download files.

✅ Best for: Tech-savvy users who want direct LAN sharing.
❌ Downside: Setup can be complicated for beginners.

Tips for Secure Wi-Fi File Sharing

  • Use a strong Wi-Fi network password to avoid unauthorized access.
  • Prefer apps with encryption (like Signal or ProtonDrive for sensitive data).
  • Delete temporary uploads (from Google Drive or email) after download.
  • Double-check recipients before confirming a transfer.

Final Thoughts

Even though iPhone and Samsung don’t have a universal built-in transfer tool, Wi-Fi file sharing is still simple and fast with the right apps:

  • Use Google Drive for large files and easy access.
  • Use Send Anywhere or SHAREit for direct, offline Wi-Fi transfers.
  • Use messaging apps for small, quick files.

By following these step-by-step methods, you can transfer files seamlessly between iPhone and Samsung without compromising speed or quality.

Also Read : 

  1. Encrypted File Transfer Options for iPhone and Samsung Users
  2. Is Data Sharing Between iPhone and Samsung Safe?
  3. Can iPhone and Samsung Users Share Files Instantly? Let’s Find Out

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