Send files from Android to a computer
You can send photos, documents and other selected files from an Android phone to a computer using Handspan in the browser. The browser workflow does not require installing an app or signing in.
Receive on your computer
- On the computer, open Receive files on this service in a current browser.
- Select Show receiving code. A QR code and a manual pairing code appear.
- On your Android phone, scan that QR code with the camera. Open the Handspan link. Alternatively, open Send files on this service and enter the manual code.
- Select the files you want to send and send the file request.
- On the computer, review and accept the request. Choose a save location if offered, or save the verified download when it is ready.
If you already have the Handspan Android app
You can select files inside the app or choose Share → Handspan from another Android app. Verified Handspan QR links can open the installed app. If no app handles the link, the browser is the fallback. Both devices must use the same service and compatible versions to use its configured fallback. A Handspan Test app connects to its separate test service.
Sending from the computer to Android
Reverse the roles: show the receiving code on Android, then choose Send files on the computer and enter the code. The receiving phone must approve the request. The native Android app saves received files to Downloads / Handspan; browser downloads follow the browser's own save behavior.
Windows, macOS and Linux browsers
The web workflow is designed around browser capabilities rather than a desktop operating system. Use a current browser with JavaScript, WebRTC and Web Crypto enabled over HTTPS. File pickers, camera scanning and download options differ between browsers. If camera scanning is unavailable, the manual code provides the same pairing workflow.
A browser or network restriction can still prevent a connection. Do not disable your browser's security protections to complete a transfer. Update the browser and retry a small file first; on a managed device, ask your administrator about network restrictions.
Keep both devices available
Leave the receiving page open and keep the phone available until both sides show completion. Direct transfers stay between the devices. When a direct route is unavailable, encrypted objects can be stored in Cloudflare R2 until delivery confirmation, cancellation or expiry requests cleanup; deletion retries may take longer. This fallback does not provide a permanent inbox for an offline recipient.
For multiple files, the website may offer a ZIP download. Large transfers depend on available local storage and browser support; some browser paths are limited to 64 MiB. See the sharing guide for save and retry details.