Did you know that you can easily open and extract ZIP files on your Android device for free using the built-in Files by Google app? If you haven’t already downloaded it, you can install Files by Google for free from the Google Play Store. This guide teaches you how to unzip any ZIP file on your Android using this simple, no-cost method.
How to unzip ZIP files on Android using Files by Google
Follow these straightforward steps to extract your ZIP files quickly and easily on your Android device.
- Open the Files by Google app. It looks like a blue rectangle with colorful corners in red, yellow, and green. If it’s your first time, tap Allow to grant permissions, then go to your device’s Settings and toggle on Allow access to all files. Tap the back arrow to return to the app. Note: On Samsung Galaxy devices, you can alternatively use the built-in My Files app for similar functionality.
- Tap Browse at the bottom of the screen. This is the tab with the magnifying glass icon over a folder.
- Navigate to your desired .zip file and tap it. For quick searching, tap the magnifying glass and type “.zip”. Selecting the file will show a preview of its contents in a pop-up window.
- Tap Extract to start the process. You’ll see a preview of the files that will be extracted.
- Tap Done once extraction finishes. The extracted files are now ready to open in their appropriate apps, like Photos for images or Google Docs for text files. Optionally, check the Delete ZIP file box to remove the original ZIP after extraction. Warning: Deleting the ZIP is permanent, so ensure you’ve backed up anything important if needed.
Why this matters
Learning to unzip files on Android saves you time and storage space by compressing and extracting archives without needing a computer. This method using Files by Google is especially useful for downloading and managing files from emails, websites, or cloud storage directly on your phone. It keeps your device organized and ensures you can access important documents, photos, or apps on the go.
Beyond convenience, free tools like this promote digital independence, reducing reliance on paid software or external devices. Whether you’re a student handling assignments or a professional sharing reports, mastering ZIP extraction enhances your mobile productivity. Plus, it helps avoid common pitfalls like corrupted files from improper handling, keeping your data secure and intact.
