Downloading multiple media files from Google Drive isn’t tricky anymore. With a recent update, you can select and save multiple photos and videos from Google Drive to your iPhone’s Photos app natively. There is also a workaround if that doesn’t work.
Method 1: Download Media From Google Drive Directly
Previously, the Drive app on iPhone didn’t let you download multiple files at once. However, a recent update has changed that.
Here’s how to do it: Open the Google Drive app and head to the folder containing your photos and videos. Tap and hold to select multiple files you want to save, tap the three dots, and choose Download.
Your selected files will download and appear in your iPhone’s Photos app.
Method 2: Save Drive Photos and Videos Using Files app
When downloading hundreds of photos and videos in one go, the Drive app may pause due to iOS limitations and you may have to keep the screen on the whole time for download to finish. For a smoother experience, try saving them directly to your iPhone’s Files app. No need to keep the screen on.
1. Open the Files app on your iPhone. Tap Browse at the bottom right, then tap Browse again. Tap on Drive and toggle it on if not already. Finally, navigate to the folder where your photos and videos are stored.
2. Tap three dots > Select and choose all the photos and videos you want to save.
3. Tap the Share icon on the bottom left and choose Save Images or Save Videos.
Within some time, the photos and videos from Drive will download and reflect in the Photos app on your iPhone.
- If you can’t find Google Drive in Files app: Tap the three dots on the top right, select Edit, and enable the toggle next to Drive.
- If the Save Photo option doesn’t appear: Try force-closing the Files app and reopening it, or restart your iPhone. Sometimes, opening the photo or video directly can also make the option appear.
- If nothing happens after tapping Save: Check your internet connection. Connect to Wi-Fi if possible.
Pro Tip: Google Photos is a great way to store photos in the cloud instead of the Drive app. It automatically removes duplicates and offers features like advanced search, collages, and more.
If Nothing Works
If you face any trouble downloading from the Google Drive or Files app, you can also bulk download media files from the Google Drive website. However, they won’t appear in the Photos app by default – you’ll have to save them manually.
Either way, now you know two ways to save multiple photos from Google Drive to your iPhone. Before you go, know how to free up space on Google Drive.
