Sharing videos from your smartphone can sometimes be tricky due to file size limitations. This guide offers simple solutions for both iPhone and Android users to seamlessly send large video files via email, without any cost.
iPhone: Leveraging iCloud's Mail Drop Feature
For iPhone users, the key is utilizing iCloud's Mail Drop. This feature allows you to send large files by uploading the video to your iCloud account and providing the recipient with a downloadable link. The recipient doesn't need an iCloud account to access the video.
Steps to Use Mail Drop:
- Start a New Email: Open the Mail app and create a new email, adding the recipient, subject, and message.
- Attach the Video: Tap the attachment icon (usually a plus sign or paperclip) within the email body. Locate the video in your photo library (videos are typically marked with a camera icon). Select the video.
- Use Mail Drop: If the video exceeds the email size limit, you'll see a notification. Choose the "Use Mail Drop" option.
The video will be uploaded to your iCloud and available for 30 days. The recipient will receive a link to download the full-resolution video.
Instructions on how to attach a video to an email. (CyberGuy.com)
Screenshot instructions on how to select "Use Mail Drop." (CyberGuy.com)
Mail Drop Limitations:
- Maximum file size: 5 GB
- Storage limit: 1 TB per month
- File availability: 30 days
Android: Sending Large Videos with Google Drive
For Android users, Gmail combined with Google Drive offers a convenient method for sending large video files.
Steps to Send Videos via Google Drive:
- Upload to Google Drive: Open your Gallery app, select the video, and tap the share icon. Choose Google Drive to upload the video.
- Compose an Email: Open the Gmail app and create a new email.
- Attach from Drive: Tap the attachment icon (paperclip) and select "Insert from Drive." Choose the video you uploaded and tap "Select."
- Send: A prompt will appear confirming sharing permissions. Tap "Send." The recipient will receive a link to the video on Google Drive.
Screenshot instructions on how to add an attachment on an email on Android. (CyberGuy.com)
Screenshot instructions on how to select "Insert from Drive" on an Android. (CyberGuy.com)
Google Drive Limitations:
- Free storage: 15 GB (shared across Google Drive, Photos, and Gmail)
- File availability: Indefinite, until permissions are changed or the file is deleted
By following these steps, you can easily share large video files without the frustration of size restrictions, regardless of whether you use an iPhone or Android device.
