How to Unzip Files On Android in 2 Easy Steps

Picture this: you’re on the go, trying to access an important file on your Android device. But then you realize it’s in a compressed ZIP file, and you can’t figure out how to open it. Some of us have been there and the frustration of being unable to access zipped files on our phones may feel all too familiar. 

After all, we’re so used to effortlessly opening archive files on our computers through the likes of WinRAR, but doing so on Android tends to feel like a different ball game altogether.

Fortunately, in just a few easy steps, you can unzip files on your Android and access all the important data you need. We’ll explore various methods and apps that can help you extract the contents of compressed files with ease in this article. Without further ado, let’s get down to it.

Step 1: Locate the Archive File(s) You Want to Unzip

Many Android phones come with a built-in file manager or explorer that allows you to easily navigate your phone’s folders and files. Simply open the app and browse the location where the compressed file is saved. From there, you’re ready to begin the decompression process!

If you’re using a Samsung Galaxy phone, you can also use the My Files app to navigate to your files. This app comes pre-installed on Samsung devices and allows you to easily search for and locate the archive file you want to decompress.

Simply tap on the Browse tab, and use the search function to find your file, or click on the “Compressed” category once you’ve opened My Files.

Step 2: Extract Files 

Archive files come in different formats such as RAR, ZIP, and 7zip, and each of these formats requires a specific decompressing app to open it. The process of content extraction varies depending on the app or software you are using, but it is typically straightforward and user-friendly.

Nowadays, most File Managers/Explorers can handle most of these formats. For instance, Samsung’s My Files can extract archive files with just a few clicks. 

The quickest and easiest way would be using the long press feature on most phones. It’s a quick and easy way to unzip files on any Android device. Simply tap and hold the folder that you want to extract until a pop-up menu appears. 

Tap Unzip/Extract, and select a place to extract the folder. Then select either internal or SD storage and choose a specific folder on your Android device. You could also rename the extracted file(s) to something of your choosing. You may also be prompted to rename files or folders if they already exist in the destination location.

This process may take some time, especially if the archive is large. Once the content has been extracted, you will be able to access it in a new folder or location, depending on the app or software.

It is worth noting that some archive files may contain multiple folders and files within them. In this case, you can extract them all at once or select individual folders or files to extract.

Tip: By default, the archive files remain in your Android phone after extracting the content. You can delete them to save space on your device to keep your phone running smoothly.

Using Third-Party Apps to Unzip Files On Android

But what if you need to extract a file from a format that your phone’s file manager can’t handle? That’s where third-party apps come in. There are several apps in the Google Play Store that can extract various archive formats, such as ZArchiver, which is one of the most popular ones.

These apps are usually easy to use and come with additional features such as encryption, password protection, and multi-part archiving.

Check out the video below which runs you through the process of extracting a zip file using a third-party app.

Using Online File Extraction Services

If your phone’s file manager lacks built-in file extraction and you don’t wish to download a third-party app, you can always use an online file extraction service such as Extract.me or Unzip-Online.com. This is a great option if you simply don’t want to clutter up your device with unnecessary apps. 

These services support a range of file formats, including ZIP, RAR, 7Z, and TAR. Using these services is easy — simply upload your file to the website, and the service will extract the contents for you. Once the extraction is complete, you can download the extracted files to your device.

Something important to note is that online file extraction services can pose a potential security risk, so it’s important to exercise caution when uploading sensitive or confidential files.

Final Thoughts

Unzipping files on Android can be a simple process with the right tools and knowledge. Whether you’re using your phone’s built-in file manager or a third-party app, the steps are straightforward and easy to follow.

Just locate the archive file you want to decompress, open it using the appropriate app or file manager, and extract the content to your desired location. Remember to always be cautious when downloading and opening files, and make sure to use reputable sources.