joshtrichards
commented
1 month ago Many apps' file pickers do not display Nextcloud as a storage option. Some apps only show internal storage, while others include cloud services like Google Drive and OneDrive, but Nextcloud often doesn't appear.
Can you provide some specific examples?
We do things the standard Android way in regards to SAF / DocumentsProvider.
I would like the Nextcloud Android app to enhance its integration with Android's Storage Access Framework (SAF) by fully implementing the DocumentProvider API. This would register Nextcloud as a storage provider with the system, making it appear as an option in the standard Android file picker used by many apps.
This is what we already do today.
Sometimes third-party apps implement their own UIs (file pickers), which means they are free to do what they want. Sometimes that means we're still there, but hidden away somewhere.There's not much we can do about that unfortunately.
E.g. See #12076
Is your feature request related to a problem? Please describe.
I'm experiencing inconsistency when trying to access my Nextcloud files through various Android apps. Many apps' file pickers do not display Nextcloud as a storage option. Some apps only show internal storage, while others include cloud services like Google Drive and OneDrive, but Nextcloud often doesn't appear. This limitation makes it difficult to access and manage my Nextcloud files directly from these apps, leading to a less seamless user experience.
Describe the solution you'd like
I would like the Nextcloud Android app to enhance its integration with Android's Storage Access Framework (SAF) by fully implementing the
DocumentProviderAPI. This would register Nextcloud as a storage provider with the system, making it appear as an option in the standard Android file picker used by many apps. As a result, Nextcloud would be available alongside other cloud storage providers like Google Drive and OneDrive, allowing users to access their Nextcloud files directly from a wider range of applications without needing workarounds.Describe alternatives you've considered
Using Third-Party File Managers: I've tried accessing Nextcloud files through third-party file manager apps that support Nextcloud, but this isn't always convenient and doesn't integrate well with all applications.
Manual File Transfer: Downloading files from Nextcloud to local storage before accessing them in other apps, but this is time-consuming and requires extra storage space.
Requesting Individual App Support: Contacting developers of specific apps to add direct Nextcloud support, but this is impractical for widespread adoption and relies on external development efforts.
Additional context
Enhancing the Nextcloud Android app's integration with the Android SAF would not only improve user experience but also align with Android's recommended practices. By fully implementing the
DocumentProviderAPI and optimizing SAF integration, Nextcloud can provide a more seamless and consistent experience for users needing to access their files from various applications. This improvement could also increase Nextcloud's adoption as a preferred cloud storage option on Android devices.Benefits of this enhancement include:
Improved Accessibility: Users can access and manage their Nextcloud files directly from more apps without unnecessary steps.
Increased Adoption: Better integration may encourage users to choose Nextcloud over other cloud storage options due to its ease of use.
Future Compatibility: Adhering to Android's standards ensures compatibility with current and future Android versions, reducing potential issues with app updates.
Thank you for considering this feature request. I believe implementing these changes will greatly benefit the Nextcloud user community on Android devices.