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OneDrive File Issues

How to Fix OneDrive Folder Structure Not Showing on Android App

Maira MehtabMaira Mehtab Sep 20, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user organized thousands of photos into specific folders on Windows 10, but these folders do not appear in the OneDrive Android app, which instead displays all photos in chronological order.

Product
Microsoft OneDrive
Device & OS
Android, Windows 10
Scenario
Accessing organized photo folders via the OneDrive mobile app on an Android device.
Observed behavior
The folder structure is not maintained on the Android app; folders are invisible, and photos are displayed purely by chronological order.
Before you start

Before troubleshooting, ensure that your Android device has an active internet connection and that your OneDrive app is updated to the latest version from the Google Play Store.

Solution 1Recommended

Switch to the Files Tab in the OneDrive App

The OneDrive app often defaults to the 'Photos' tab, which aggregates all images chronologically regardless of their folder location. You must switch to the 'Files' tab to see your actual folder structure.

By design, the Photos view in OneDrive scans your entire account for images and displays them in a timeline format. This does not mean your folders are deleted or un-synced; they are just not visible in this specific view.

1
Open the OneDrive Android App

Launch the Microsoft OneDrive app on your Android smartphone or tablet.

2
Tap on the Files Tab

Look at the bottom navigation bar and tap the 'Files' icon instead of the 'Photos' icon.

3
Locate Your Folders

Browse through your synced directories in the 'Files' view to find your organized photo folders exactly as they appear on your Windows 10 computer.

Folder Structure Restored: Viewing your account via the Files tab ensures all custom directories created on Windows 10 are visible and accessible.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does OneDrive show my photos by date instead of folders on Android?

By default, the 'Photos' tab in the OneDrive app gathers all image files from your account and sorts them chronologically to create a timeline gallery. To see your custom folders, you must navigate to the 'Files' tab at the bottom of the screen.

How do I force OneDrive to sync my folders from Windows 10 to Android?

First, ensure the OneDrive client on your Windows 10 PC is running and displays 'Up to date' in the system tray. Then, open the OneDrive app on your Android device, go to the 'Files' tab, and swipe down on the screen to refresh and force the app to sync the latest folder structure.

Can I view my OneDrive folders using WPS Office for Android?

Yes, WPS Office for Android allows you to link your OneDrive account directly within the app. Once connected via the 'Cloud' or 'Open' menu, you can browse, open, and edit your documents while retaining your exact original folder structure.