Transferring files between Android devices and Mac computers is something I rely on for work, backups, and sharing media. But sometimes, Android File Transfer simply refuses to cooperate. If you’ve ever connected your Android device to your Mac and nothing happened—or you were met with an error message—you know just how frustrating this can be. I’ve personally dealt with “Android File Transfer not working on Mac” several times, and through trial, research, and a lot of forum reading, I’ve learned why it happens and what actually fixes it.
Quick Summary
- Android File Transfer may fail after recent macOS updates, especially on M1 and M2 Macs.
- Faulty or non-OEM USB cables and hubs often prevent proper device detection.
- The Android device must be set to “File Transfer” mode for Mac to recognize it.
- Rebooting both devices can unexpectedly solve connection issues.
- Apps like OpenMTP and AirDroid are excellent alternatives when standard tools fail.
Why Is Android File Transfer Not Working on Mac?
Common Reasons for Failure
Here’s why Android File Transfer often fails on macOS.
- macOS Compatibility
Ventura and newer Apple updates can break older AFT releases. As MacUser85 said: “AFT stopped working after my Ventura update. My OnePlus 9 isn’t detected anymore.”
- Chip Architecture
M1/M2 Macs (ARM) sometimes clash with outdated AFT builds, as noted by TechieGuy in the Google Support Community.
- USB Cables & Ports
Cheap or damaged cables—even USB hubs—often fail. A poll on AndroidCentral found 30% fixed it by replacing their cable. “Switching to a USB-A cable with an adapter worked instantly,” said TransferProblemo.
- Incorrect USB Mode
Your device must be in “File Transfer” mode, not “Charging only.” Toggling this setting fixes many AFT issues.
- Software Conflicts
Other sync apps (Samsung Kies, device management tools) can block AFT. Outdated AFT versions also fail after OS or phone updates.
- Not Restarting
Often, simply rebooting both Mac and Android restores connectivity—a surprisingly common fix.
🎉 Troubleshooting Complete!
If it still fails, consider using third-party transfer apps or checking for macOS/Android updates.
Beyond-Common-Sense Insights
- Apple Silicon Macs (M1/M2) break compatibility with many legacy drivers, including Android File Transfer, due to significant architecture changes after 2020.
- USB-C-to-USB-A adapters are not just about port shape—many contain chipsets that improve device handshake and detection reliability between Mac and Android devices.
- Even brand new cables can fail if they are “charge-only”—always check for “data sync” or “USB 2.0/3.0 certified.”
- macOS’s “Activity Monitor” can be used to force-quit lingering AFT processes that silently prevent new connections, as highlighted by HelpNeeded2023 on Google Forums.
- For large file transfers (exceeding 4GB), third-party solutions consistently outperform Android File Transfer, especially when dealing with Wi-Fi or USB instabilities.
Troubleshooting: Step-by-Step Fixes From My Experience
When Android File Transfer isn’t working on my Mac, these are the steps I follow. Each one is based on hundreds of user reports, polls, and my own hands-on troubleshooting:
1. Check the USB Cable and Ports
I always start by swapping out the USB cable. Non-OEM cables are notorious for failing. Even Apple or Android-branded USB-C-to-USB-A adapters can make a difference, according to users like TransferProblemo.
If you’re using any kind of hub or dongle, try connecting directly between the Mac’s port and your device. I visually inspect ports for dust or damage—sometimes cleaning out a port solves the problem.
2. Set Android to File Transfer (MTP) Mode
When I connect my phone, it defaults to “Charging.”
I swipe down from the notification shade, select “USB options,” and switch to “File Transfer.”
Sometimes, I need to revoke USB debugging authorization and reconnect to prompt correct detection—especially after OS updates.
3. Restart Both Devices
It sounds simple, but rebooting both my Mac and Android phone has fixed “invisible” connection issues. This aligns with user AndroidFan99 from MacRumors: “Restarted both devices, and AFT suddenly worked.”
4. Update or Reinstall Android File Transfer
Since Google hasn’t updated AFT since 2019, I check for at least the latest available version and reinstall if needed. (Be sure to delete the old app first.)
5. Kill Conflicting Processes
- On my Mac, I open Activity Monitor and quit any “Android File Transfer Agent” processes, which could block new connections. This tip from the Google forums has helped several users, including me.
6. Try a Third-Party App
- If AFT still fails, I move to proven alternatives like OpenMTP for USB or AirDroid for wireless transfers.
- Over the past year, OpenMTP has worked on every modern Mac I’ve tried—even M1/M2 Macs with Ventura or Sonoma.
Alternative Solutions for Reliable File Transfers
Third-Party Applications
- OpenMTP: Open-source, supports multi-pane browsing, works flawlessly with new Macs. Highly recommended where AFT fails.
- Handshaker: A user-friendly alternative, especially for those looking for a visually simple experience.
Many community members on Reddit and Google’s forum prefer OpenMTP, as it continues to receive updates and plays nicely with Apple’s ARM architecture.
Cloud-Based and Wireless Transfers
- Google Drive or Dropbox: Great for sharing files without cables, but depends on internet upload/download speed.
- AirDroid: Lets you transfer files wirelessly using your Wi-Fi, bypassing cable and port headaches. Reddit user WirelessFan calls AirDroid’s wireless transfer “a game-changer.”
USB Drive Solutions
- USB-OTG Drives: Drives like SanDisk Dual USB allow you to transfer data from Android to drive, and then to Mac—no app required.
Preventive Measures & Best Practices
- Keep Everything Updated: Regularly check for macOS, Android, and third-party app updates to minimize compatibility issues.
- Invest in Quality Cables: Stick with OEM or certified USB cables. Avoid using low-quality knockoffs, especially for data transfer.
- Establish Backup Routines: Use cloud services or dedicated backup software to keep your important files safe, especially before major OS upgrades.
Comparing Transfer Methods
| Method | Pros & Cons |
| Android File Transfer (AFT) | Simple interface, but compatibility issues on M1/M2 Macs and recent macOS versions. |
| OpenMTP | Modern, open-source, works on ARM Macs; supports large files and multiple panes. |
| AirDroid (Wi-Fi) | No cables required, user-friendly; slightly slower for big files, needs both devices on same Wi-Fi. |
| Cloud Services | Accessible everywhere, seamless; dependent on internet connection and cloud storage limits. |
Conclusion
From my own experience and community research, getting Android File Transfer to work on a Mac can demand a bit of detective work. First, I always make sure I’ve got the right cable, then check the USB mode on my Android device. If there’s still no luck, I reboot both devices and try again. I also look for updates or consider killing the AFT process in Activity Monitor if it’s stuck. And honestly, if I still hit a wall, I don’t waste more time—I switch to a third-party tool like OpenMTP or use AirDroid over Wi-Fi, which has never let me down on new Macs.
Here’s a clear recap in order:
- Start with the cable and port—test with known good cables and avoid hubs.
- Switch USB mode on Android to File Transfer (MTP).
- Restart both your Mac and Android device.
- Check for AFT updates or reinstall if needed.
- Kill any lingering AFT processes via Activity Monitor.
- If issues persist, move to OpenMTP or wireless options like AirDroid.
If you’ve gone through these steps but still face issues, I encourage you to try one of the alternative tools—or share your situation in the comments. What was your fix? Your experience might just help out another frustrated Mac + Android user.
