I can't find a file I downloaded
The download seemed to finish, but the file is not where you expected it. On Android, downloads can sit in the Files app's Downloads folder, in the browser's own download list, or inside the app that downloaded them.
Does this sound familiar?
- I downloaded a file but it is not in my gallery
- The download finished and now I don't know where the file went
- I tapped the download notification and can't find the file again
- A file I got through Chrome or a messaging app seems to have disappeared
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Method for this problem
Find a downloaded file on an Android phone
Most downloads land in the Downloads folder of the Files app, but browsers keep their own download list and many apps keep their downloads inside themselves. This method checks each likely place in order.
Source: Official documentationTesting: Not team-testedReports: none reviewed yet
Reviewed 9 Nov 2026
Applies to: Android phones (Android 11 and later) with the Files app or Files by Google and Chrome