Sharing files between devices can often be a hassle, especially when crossing platforms. Microsoft Edge's Drop feature simplifies this by allowing seamless file transfers across PCs, iPads, iPhones, Android devices, and more, directly through the browser.

Enable the Edge Sidebar

To access the Drop feature, you'll need to enable the Edge sidebar where it's located.

Step 1: Open Microsoft Edge and click on the three horizontal dots (ellipsis) in the top-right corner to open the main menu.

Step 2: From the drop-down menu, select Settings to open the settings page.

Step 3: In the left-hand menu, click on Sidebar to access sidebar settings.

Step 4: Toggle on the Always show sidebar option if it's not already enabled.

Step 5: With the sidebar now visible, locate the Drop icon, which looks like a paper plane, among the sidebar features.

Sign in to Your Microsoft Account

You'll need to be signed in to your Microsoft account to use the Drop feature for file transfers.

Step 1: Click on the Drop icon in the sidebar to initiate the sign-in process.

Step 2: A welcome message will appear with a Sign in button. Click it to proceed.

Step 3: Choose to sign in with an existing Microsoft account or add a new one in the pop-up window.

Step 4: After signing in, Edge will sync your data and display a Start button, indicating you're ready to begin transferring files.

Transfer Files Using Microsoft Edge Drop

Now that you're signed in, you can start transferring files using the Drop feature. Any files you send will be accessible on your other devices through Edge.

Note: Files transferred via Drop are uploaded to OneDrive and will count toward your OneDrive storage limit. Ensure you have enough available space to complete the transfer.

Sending Files to Your Other Device

Step 1: In the Drop pane, click on the Start button to begin sharing files.

Step 2: Click on the + icon at the bottom of the Drop pane to attach files.

Step 3: Navigate to the files you want to send in the file explorer window, select them, and click Open.

Step 4: The files will begin uploading to OneDrive. You can also add a message or share links by typing in the text box at the bottom.

Step 5: Click the arrow button next to the message box to send the files and any accompanying message.

Accessing Your Files on Your Other Device

To retrieve the files on another device, sign in to the same Microsoft account in Edge on that device.

Step 1: Open Edge on your secondary device (e.g., an Android phone) and tap the hamburger menu icon (three horizontal lines) at the bottom.

Step 2: Tap the Settings gear icon to access account settings.

Step 3: If you're not signed in, log in using the same Microsoft account you used on your primary device.

Step 4: Once signed in, return to the main screen by tapping the back arrow at the top.

Step 5: Open the hamburger menu again and tap the Drop icon to access your shared files.

Step 6: You'll see the files and messages you've sent. Tap on the files to download them to this device.

By following these steps, you can easily transfer files from one device to another using Edge's Drop feature.

Microsoft Edge's Drop feature streamlines cross-platform file sharing by integrating directly with your browser and OneDrive. Whether you're transferring documents, images, or media files, Drop provides a convenient and efficient method without the need for third-party apps. Just remember to monitor your OneDrive storage space to ensure uninterrupted file transfers.