When you download a transfer containing multiple files, WeTransfer packages them into a single zip file. Here's why we do it and how to open them on every platform.
Why WeTransfer uses zip files
When a transfer contains more than one file, WeTransfer automatically packages them into a zip file. This gives senders the fastest possible upload and recipients a single, easy-to-download file.
- We use lossless compression, which means your files are not altered in any way. The quality of your original files is fully preserved.
- You can zip your files before uploading if you prefer — for example, to preserve a specific folder structure. The download experience for recipients will be the same.
- Note: if you upload a pre-made zip file, WeTransfer won't be able to generate previews for the files inside it.
Unzipping on Mac and Windows
Most transfers can be unzipped by double-clicking the file in your Downloads folder. However, transfers larger than 4 GB can be difficult for built-in tools on Windows and Mac, as they need to support the Zip64 archive format — and not all apps do.
We recommend these free tools for large or stubborn zip files:
- Windows: 7-Zip (version 20.00 or newer).
- Mac: The Unarchiver (latest version).
Once installed, make sure you open the zip file with the new app rather than your device's default tool.
Unzipping on iOS
If your transfer contains a single zip file, iOS will automatically unzip it for you. For transfers containing multiple files where some are zips, your device will leave the zip files as they are — they will not be automatically unzipped.
To manually unzip, navigate to the location of the zip file on your device and tap it. iOS will unpack the files in the same location. For challenging zip files, download WinZip for iOS from the App Store.
Unzipping on Android
- Navigate to the location where the zip file is saved on your device using a file manager like Files (by Google), or a third-party file manager from the Google Play Store.
- Tap on the zip file. If your device has a built-in tool to handle zip files, it will prompt you to extract.
- If prompted, select a destination folder for the extracted files, then tap Extract or OK.
- If your device can't handle zip files natively, install WinZip or RAR from the Google Play Store.
Playback issues after unzipping
Zipping a file will not change the original file. Some original media files have compatibility issues with certain media players. VLC Media Player (available for Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android) handles the widest range of formats and resolves most playback issues.
Always download apps from trusted sources like the official app stores.