Material Files Overview
Material Files, also known as Zhanghai’s Material File Manager, is a free and open-source file manager designed for Android. Built with Google’s Material Design guidelines, the app offers a clean, intuitive interface combined with advanced functionality. Whether you need to browse storage, transfer files, or handle root access, Material Files provides a smooth and clutter-free experience.
Material Files Features
- Browse and organize files with copy, move, rename, delete, and compress/decompress operations.
- Dual-pane view support for faster multitasking.
- Integrated support for root access, allowing full control of protected directories.
- Built-in archive handling: ZIP, TAR, and other common formats.
- Quick access bookmarks and storage shortcuts.
- Integration with external apps for opening or editing files.
- Dark mode and theme customization following Material You guidelines.
- Support for SAF (Storage Access Framework) to manage external SD cards and USB storage.
Material Files Highlights
The app distinguishes itself with its simple UI, ad-free nature, and transparency as an open-source project. It avoids unnecessary permissions, respecting user privacy. Recent updates have improved storage management, refined the visual design, and optimized performance for large directories.
Why Choose Material Files
If you’re frustrated with bloated or ad-ridden file managers, Material Files is a refreshing option. Its lightweight design, open-source license, and strong community support make it reliable for daily use. Power users benefit from root support, while casual users appreciate its straightforward navigation and stability.
Material Files User Reviews
“Finally, a file manager that doesn’t nag me with ads or permissions I don’t need. The dual-pane view is a life-saver.”
“Material Files has replaced my OEM file manager completely. The design is beautiful and lightweight.”
“Great open-source alternative. Root access works as expected, though occasionally navigating large folders can lag a bit.”
“As a long-time FX user, I switched to Material Files because of its simplicity and GPL license. Very happy so far.”
Material Files Supported Platforms
Material Files runs on Android smartphones and tablets. It is available via Google Play, F-Droid, Uptodown, APKMirror, and other trusted app stores.
Material Files Supported Languages
The app supports English and many community-contributed translations including German, French, Spanish, Russian, Chinese, and more. Translations are regularly updated through the GitHub community.
Material Files License
Material Files is licensed under the GNU General Public License v3. It is free to use, modify, and redistribute under open-source terms.
Is Material Files Open Source?
Yes. Material Files is fully open-source, with source code hosted on GitHub. Contributions from developers worldwide ensure transparency, frequent updates, and fast bug fixes.
Material Files Minimum Requirements
- Android 5.0 (Lollipop) or later
- 2 GB RAM recommended for smooth multitasking
- Storage space: ~10 MB for installation
- Optional: Root access for advanced features
Material Files Usage Tips
- Use the dual-pane view for quick drag-and-drop operations.
- Customize themes to match your device’s style or enable dark mode to save battery.
- Bookmark frequently used directories for instant access.
- Pair Material Files with third-party editors to open uncommon file types.
- For rooted devices, grant superuser permissions carefully to avoid accidental system modifications.
Material Files FAQ
Q: Does Material Files contain ads?
A: No, the app is entirely ad-free.
Q: Can it handle cloud storage?
A: Direct cloud integration is not built-in, but you can use Android’s SAF framework or third-party apps to connect to cloud accounts.
Q: Is root mandatory?
A: No. Root is optional and only required for advanced system-level tasks.
Q: Does it support external storage?
A: Yes, SD cards and USB OTG drives are supported through Android’s SAF.
Q: How often is it updated?
A: The GitHub repo shows frequent commits, bug fixes, and translation updates contributed by the community.
Material Files Conclusion
Material Files is a powerful yet simple open-source file manager for Android. With its clean Material Design, ad-free operation, and root capabilities, it is a top choice for users seeking both privacy and functionality. Whether you’re a casual user organizing photos or a developer managing system directories, Material Files delivers a reliable and modern solution.