How to Understand OneDrive Mobile App Icons and Symbols on Android
Question details
The user needs help identifying and understanding the meaning of various icons and symbols used in the OneDrive mobile app.

- Product
- Microsoft OneDrive
- Device & OS
- Android
- Scenario
- Navigating and managing files in the OneDrive mobile app for the first time.
- Observed behavior
- The user sees symbols instead of text labels and wants to know what each status or action icon represents.
Ensure your OneDrive mobile app is updated to the latest version, as icon designs and status indicators may change in newer updates.
Consult Official Microsoft OneDrive Mobile Guides
Use Microsoft's built-in guides and official tutorials to learn the basic layout and icon meanings on Android.
Microsoft provides comprehensive documentation within the app and on its support website explaining every status icon, such as syncing, downloaded, or online-only files.
Open the OneDrive app on your Android device. Tap on your profile picture or the 'Me' icon at the bottom right corner, then select 'Help and feedback'.
In the search bar of the help section, type 'What do the OneDrive icons mean' to access the official Microsoft guide detailing sync statuses, cloud icons, and file markers.
Familiarize yourself with common symbols: a cloud icon means the file is online-only, a green checkmark means it is downloaded to your device, and a sync wheel indicates it is currently uploading or downloading.

Identify Specific Unknown Icons via Support
If you encounter an undocumented symbol, capture it and seek help from support forums.
Edit Your Cloud Files Effortlessly with WPS Office
While navigating OneDrive's mobile app, you may need a reliable mobile office suite to open, edit, and save your documents. WPS Office is a free, lightweight alternative that fully supports Microsoft Office formats and integrates seamlessly with cloud drives like OneDrive.
- 1. Install WPS Office: Download and install WPS Office from the Google Play Store on your Android device.
- 2. Connect Your Cloud: Open WPS Office, tap on the 'Open' tab, and select 'Add Cloud Storage'.
- 3. Log in to OneDrive: Select OneDrive from the list and log in with your Microsoft credentials to securely access and edit your files directly within WPS Office.

Frequently Asked Questions
What does the cloud icon next to my OneDrive file mean?
A cloud icon indicates that the file is available online only and is not taking up storage space on your device. You need an active internet connection to open it.
Why is there a green checkmark on my Android OneDrive app?
A solid green circle with a white checkmark means the file is downloaded to your device and is available for offline viewing or editing.
How do I refresh or sync files if the sync icon is stuck?
You can pull down on the screen in the OneDrive app to force a manual refresh. If it remains stuck, try clearing the app cache in your Android settings or signing out and back in.
Does WPS Office support opening files directly from the OneDrive app?
Yes, you can tap a document in the OneDrive app and choose WPS Office from the 'Open with' menu to edit it. Changes will automatically sync back to your OneDrive cloud storage.




