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Transfer files from Android to Mac wirelessly

Updated October 24, 2026

Android 11 and later can connect to a computer over Wi-Fi with a feature called wireless debugging. PhoneFerry uses it to browse and copy your phone's files with no cable. You pair once; after that the phone connects over your own network.

What you need

  • An Android phone with Android 11 or later.
  • The phone and the Mac on the same Wi-Fi network.
  • Developer options turned on (one-time step below).

Set it up once

  1. On the phone open Settings › About phone and tap “Build number” seven times. Developer options are now on.
  2. Open Settings › System › Developer options (the place can differ by brand) and turn on Wireless debugging.
  3. In PhoneFerry choose Wireless Connection. It shows a QR code.
  4. On the phone tap “Pair device with QR code” under Wireless debugging and scan the code.

If it does not connect

  • Check both devices are on the same network. Guest, office and hotel Wi-Fi often isolate devices from each other.
  • Turn Wireless debugging off and on again; the phone gets new ports each time.
  • Use the manual option in PhoneFerry with the IP address and pairing code shown on the phone.
  • A USB cable always works as a fallback.

Frequently asked questions

Is wireless debugging safe?

It lets paired computers access the phone, so pair only your own Mac and turn it off on networks you do not trust.

Is Wi-Fi as fast as a cable?

Usually slower, especially for very large videos. It is ideal for everyday photos.

Does it work with Quick Share?

Quick Share is a different feature. PhoneFerry uses Android's wireless debugging to browse the whole phone.

Sources

More Android and Mac guides