Android File Transfer (AFT) was once the go-to utility for macOS users looking to transfer files between their Android devices and Mac computers. Developed by Google, AFT provided a simple interface that allowed users to browse, copy, and manage content on their Android phones or tablets directly from their Mac desktops. However, as of recent updates and shifts in Android and macOS ecosystems, AFT has been officially deprecated and is no longer supported by Google.
Still, many users continue to search for legacy builds of AFT,android file transfer mac despite the risk. A common message you might see on forums or third-party download sites is:
“AFT is not supported, but if you were looking for an old build at your own risk, here it is.”
In this article, we explore the reasons behind AFT’s discontinuation, the risks involved in using outdated versions, and the best alternatives currently available.
What Was Android File Transfer?
Android File Transfer was a lightweight utility launched by Google to bridge the gap between Android devices and macOS computers. Due to a lack of native MTP (Media Transfer Protocol) support on macOS, Android devices couldn’t be accessed like USB drives on a Mac. AFT solved this by enabling MTP communication, allowing users to,
Browse and transfer files between Mac and Android (up to 4 GB)
Access internal storage and SD cards
Create and delete folders on Android devices
Manage media files like photos, videos, and documents
AFT supported macOS versions 10.7 and above, and Android devices running version 3.0 (Honeycomb) and later.
Why AFT Is No Longer Supported
There are several reasons why Android File Transfer has been abandoned:
1. Lack of Updates and Maintenance
AFT remained largely unchanged for years android file transfer mac. As macOS and Android versions evolved, AFT didn’t receive the necessary updates to stay compatible. Many users began reporting:
Crashes upon launching
Devices not being detected
Incompatibility with macOS Monterey, Ventura, and later
File transfer errors and freezing
2. Improved Alternatives
Third-party developers and phone manufacturers have introduced better, more robust solutions for file transfer. Google, shifting toward cloud-based ecosystems like Google Drive and Photos, deprioritized AFT in favor of these methods.
3. Security and Compatibility Issues
macOS has become increasingly strict with unsigned and outdated apps. AFT’s aging codebase started triggering security warnings or simply failed to run. The app does not support the latest macOS security requirements, making it a liability rather than an asset.
Using Old Builds: “At Your Own Risk”
If you’re still inclined to use Android File Transfer due to familiarity or specific use cases, you might find old versions archived on forums or third-party websites. However, these versions come with significant risks:
⚠️ Security Vulnerabilities
Outdated software, especially those not updated for years, may contain unpatched vulnerabilities. Using legacy AFT builds could expose your system to potential exploits or malware, especially if downloaded from unverified sources.
⚠️ System Instability
Legacy versions of AFT often crash or fail to run entirely on modern macOS versions (Monterey, Ventura, Sonoma). Even if they launch, users frequently report connection issues, corrupted file transfers, or unresponsive interfaces.
⚠️ No Support or Fixes
Since AFT is officially discontinued, you won’t receive any technical support or bug fixes. If something goes wronglike corrupting a phone’s file system or losing important datayou’re on your own.
⚠️ Compatibility Problems
Many newer Android phones now use protocolsandroid file transfer mac or encryption methods that older versions of AFT can’t understand, making them incompatible even when physically connected.
Alternatives to Android File Transfer
Rather than risking legacy software, there are several modern, safe, and actively supported alternatives you or your client should consider:
1. OpenMTP
Open-source and free
Actively maintained
Clean interface with dual-pane file explorer
Works with macOS Ventura and newer
Website: openmtp.ganeshrvel.com
2. HandShaker (by Smartisan)
Sleek interface designed for macOS
Drag-and-drop file transfers
Faster than AFT
May not work with all Android brands
3. MacDroid
Paid (with a free version)
Supports internal and external storage
Simple and user-friendly
Allows mounting Android as a disk on macOS
4. AirDroid / Pushbullet / KDE Connect
Wireless file transfer via Wi-Fi
Also supports notifications, clipboard sync, and screen mirroring
Great for users who prefer avoiding USB altogether
5. Cloud-Based Solutions
Google Drive / Google Photos: Seamless cross-device access
Dropbox / OneDrive: Reliable file syncing between Android and macOS
Snapdrop or ShareDrop: Quick browser-based file sharing on the same network
Best Practices if Using Legacy AFT
If you must use an old AFT version, here are precautions to take:
Download from reputable sources only (e.g., trusted GitHub archives or tech forums with community feedback).
Use a secondary machine or virtual machine to isolate potential damage.
Disable automatic macOS security updates that may break compatibility further.
Always back up your Android device before initiating large transfers.
Consider installing Android File Transfer alternatives side-by-side for fallback.
