How to send an entire folder via WhatsApp?

How to send an entire folder via WhatsApp - briefly?

To send an entire folder via WhatsApp, you need to use the "Document" option instead of the usual "Photo/Video" or "Gallery". This allows you to select and send multiple files at once, essentially sending the whole folder in one go.

How to send an entire folder via WhatsApp - in detail?

Sending an entire folder via WhatsApp is not directly supported by the app, as it only allows sending individual files or a limited number of images at once. However, there are workarounds to accomplish this task. Here’s a detailed guide on how you can send an entire folder using WhatsApp:

Using Cloud Storage Services

  1. Create a Zip File:

    • First, compress the entire folder into a zip file. This will combine all the files into one manageable archive. You can use built-in compression tools on your operating system (Windows, macOS) or third-party applications like 7-Zip or WinRAR.

  2. Upload to Cloud Storage:

    • Upload the zip file to a cloud storage service such as Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive. These services usually provide easy upload options and can handle large files better than WhatsApp.

  3. Share the Link:

    • Once the file is uploaded, you will get a shareable link. Copy this link.

  4. Send via WhatsApp:

    • Open WhatsApp and go to the chat where you want to send the folder. Paste the shared link into the message box and send it. The recipient can then download the zip file from the cloud storage service.

Using File Transfer Apps

  1. Install a File Transfer App:

    • Download and install a file transfer app like SHAREit, Xender, or Zapya on both your device and the recipient’s device. These apps allow you to send large files directly without compressing them into a zip file.

  2. Send the Folder:

    • Open the file transfer app and select the folder you want to send. Follow the prompts to connect with the recipient’s device (usually via Wi-Fi Direct). Once connected, initiate the transfer.

  3. Receive the Folder:

    • The recipient will receive a notification to accept the incoming files. After accepting, the folder will be transferred directly to their device.

Using Email Services

  1. Compress the Folder:

    • Similar to the cloud storage method, compress the entire folder into a zip file.

  2. Send via Email:

    • Open your email client and compose a new email. Attach the zip file to the email and send it to yourself or directly to the recipient.

  3. Access on Phone:

    • Open WhatsApp Web on your computer (if available) or forward the email from your phone to the WhatsApp chat where you want to share the folder. This method is more convenient if the folder size exceeds WhatsApp’s file transfer limit.

Tips for Successful Transfer

  • Check File Size Limits: Be aware of the file size limits imposed by cloud storage services and email providers to ensure a smooth transfer.
  • Ensure Compatibility: Make sure both you and the recipient have the necessary apps or tools installed to handle zip files and cloud storage links.
  • Security Considerations: When using cloud storage, consider the sensitivity of the files being shared. Use services that offer encryption for added security.

By following these detailed steps, you can successfully send an entire folder via WhatsApp despite its limitations in directly handling large or multiple file transfers.