The Android file manager fulfills the basic requirements of a mobile file manager. However, this can’t hide the fact that the tool remains very sparse in terms of design and functionality when compared to many similar third-party apps. Even though the visual design of the user interface is doubtlessly a question of taste, the Google application has to be criticized on this point: Other than the thumbnails that highlight image files, the incredibly slim design with gray folder and file symbols doesn’t provide the user with any real points of orientation. The listed files and formats therefore require closer inspection, which unnecessarily complicates the use of the file manager app.
With regard to the functional simplicity, the following points in particular call for an alternative:
- No cut function: If a file is to be moved to another folder, it has to be copied with the standard app. Then there are two versions of the file (in the original and destination folders), so that you still have to go back and delete the original file.
- No renaming function for files and folders: The Android file manager always displays the complete folder and file names, but contains no option to modify them.
- No option to create new folders: If you want to organize your files in the internal file manager app, then you have to use an existing folder. New folders can’t be created with the program.
- No dual-window mode: Even if it is possible to switch back and forth between the main and subfolders using the triangle symbol, the restriction to a single window is unnecessarily complicated. That the file manager from Android doesn’t have an available dual-window mode has a particularly negative impact when it comes to transferring files.
One of the biggest disadvantages of the Android application is also the missing interface for cloud storage services. Since many third-party apps are available this way, not only files in the mobile device’s internal memory need to be managed, but also files that have been uploaded to Google Drive, Dropbox, and others.