FX File Explorer

FX File Explorer is a file management application available for the Android platform that simplifies the process of organizing and accessing files on mobile devices. This application, created by NextApp, Inc., offers a variety of features designed to enhance productivity and streamline file management tasks.

The app's home screen is productivity-oriented, allowing users to quickly access essential folders, media, and cloud storage services. This interface is designed to facilitate efficient navigation, ensuring that important files are readily available. Multiple window support is another significant aspect, with dual-view mode enabling users to view and manage two windows simultaneously. This feature is particularly useful for tasks that require comparison or transfer of files between different locations.

As users browse their files, FX File Explorer provides a "Usage View" mode. This feature displays the total size and content makeup of each folder, allowing for better organization and management of space on the device. Additionally, the app supports most file archive formats, making it versatile for various file types.

Privacy is a core principle of FX File Explorer. The application contains no advertisements and does not track user activity, ensuring that personal information remains secure. FX File Explorer does not engage in any data collection processes, as it does not "phone home." Built by a US-based corporation founded in 2002, the proprietary code is developed entirely in-house, further emphasizing the commitment to user privacy.

For those seeking additional functionality, the optional FX+ Add-On module enhances the app's capabilities. One notable feature of FX+ is the support for SMBv2, which allows for seamless file sharing over a network. FX Connect is another innovative feature that enables file transfers between devices using Wi-Fi Direct. This function supports NFC, allowing users to connect two phones by simply touching their backs together, provided that FX+ is installed.

Web Access is an additional aspect of the FX+ Add-On, offering users the ability to manage and transfer files through a computer's web browser. This feature allows for drag-and-drop functionality, enabling users to move entire folders from their computer to their phone easily. Streaming music playlists from a phone to a computer over Wi-Fi is also possible, enhancing the app's utility in media management.

FX File Explorer enables access to various networked computers using protocols such as FTP, SSH FTP, WebDAV, and Windows Networking (SMB1 and SMB2). This makes it suitable for users who need to manage files across different devices and networks efficiently. The app also connects to popular cloud storage services, including Google Drive, Dropbox, SugarSync, Box, SkyDrive, and OwnCloud, offering flexibility in file management.

Users can manage installed applications within FX File Explorer, with support for browsing applications based on their required permissions. This feature allows users to review and control app access to sensitive data, enhancing security and privacy.

The app includes built-in editing and viewing applets that cater to various file types. A text editor is available for document editing, equipped with undo/redo history, cut/paste functions, and search capabilities. The binary (hex) viewer allows for inspection of file contents at a low level, while an image viewer provides a straightforward way to browse photos. Additionally, a media player and pop-up audio player support playback of audio files.

FX File Explorer also offers a range of archive management tools. Users can create and extract various types of compressed files, including zip, tar, gzip, bzip2, and 7zip, as well as extract RAR files. This functionality is essential for users who frequently work with compressed file formats.

The app also features a shell script executor, allowing users to run scripts directly from the file explorer. This feature is particularly beneficial for advanced users who want to automate tasks or perform complex file manipulations.

As of Android 8.0 and later, FX File Explorer requires "approximate location" permission to support Wi-Fi Direct functionality. It is important to note that while this permission is requested, the app does not query or utilize the user's location in any way. This requirement aims to maintain compliance with Android's updated security policies.

With its array of features, FX File Explorer serves as a comprehensive tool for file management on Android devices, enabling users to effectively organize, access, and transfer their files while prioritizing privacy and security. The combination of a user-friendly interface and advanced functionalities makes it a valuable addition to any Android device.