How to Upload and Edit SharePoint Files on Android
Question details
Users need a way to upload and edit files in SharePoint document libraries from their Android devices.
- Product
- Microsoft SharePoint
- Device & OS
- Android
- Scenario
- Attempting to manage, upload, or edit documents stored in a SharePoint site library while working on a mobile device.
- Observed behavior
- The native SharePoint Android app does not display upload or edit commands, providing only view-only access even when the user has full control permissions.
Ensure you have the latest version of the Microsoft OneDrive app installed on your Android device and that you are signed in with your work or school account.
Use the OneDrive App to Access SharePoint Libraries
Since the SharePoint app restricts editing, using the OneDrive mobile app is the official and most practical workaround to gain full upload and edit capabilities for your SharePoint files.
Microsoft integrates SharePoint document libraries directly into the OneDrive mobile application. By navigating through OneDrive, you bypass the view-only limitations of the SharePoint app and can utilize your full control permissions.
Launch the OneDrive application on your Android device and ensure you are logged in with the account associated with your SharePoint access.
Tap on the 'Libraries' tab located in the bottom navigation menu of the OneDrive app.
Browse the list of available sites and tap on the specific SharePoint site that contains the document library you want to access.
Open the target document library. To upload a new file, tap the '+' (Plus) icon at the top or bottom of the screen and select 'Upload'. To edit an existing file, simply tap the document to open it in its respective Office mobile app.
Edit Your Cloud Documents Seamlessly with WPS Office
If you are frustrated by the limitations of mobile document management, try WPS Office. It is a lightweight, all-in-one office suite that integrates smoothly with third-party cloud storage, allowing you to view, edit, and save your documents on the go without switching between multiple apps.
- 1. Install WPS Office: Download and install WPS Office from the Google Play Store on your Android device.
- 2. Connect Cloud Storage: Open WPS Office, go to the 'Open' tab, and select 'Add Cloud Storage' to link your preferred cloud drive.
- 3. Edit and Save: Tap on any document to open it, make your edits using the comprehensive mobile toolset, and save changes directly back to the cloud.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can't I edit files directly in the SharePoint Android app?
The SharePoint mobile app is primarily designed for intranet browsing, news, and viewing content. File management tasks, such as editing and uploading to document libraries, are intentionally routed through the integrated OneDrive app by Microsoft.
Do I need separate permissions to use OneDrive for SharePoint files?
No. As long as you have the necessary edit or full control permissions assigned on the SharePoint site, those exact same permissions will apply when you access the libraries via the OneDrive app.
Does this OneDrive workaround apply to iOS devices as well?
Yes, the OneDrive mobile app for iPhone and iPad functions similarly. You can use it to access SharePoint libraries and upload or edit files when the iOS SharePoint app only provides view-only access.
