To attach a Google Drive file to an email on an iPhone 13, first install the Google Drive app and sign in. Then, in the Mail app, tap in the message body, tap the document icon above the keyboard (you may need to tap the arrow or Aa first), choose Browse, and open Google Drive under Locations. Pick the file and it’s attached. If you use the Gmail app, tap the paperclip and choose a file from Drive instead.
These steps also work on other iPhones with a recent iOS version.
Quick Answer
Mail: tap the body > document icon > Browse > Google Drive > pick the file. Gmail: paperclip > Drive.
Step 1: Add Google Drive to the Files App
- Install Google Drive from the App Store and sign in.
- Open the Files app and tap Browse.
- If Google Drive isn’t listed under Locations, tap ⋯ (top right) > Edit, turn on Drive, and tap Done.
Step 2: Attach the File in Mail
- Start a new email or reply in the Mail app.
- Tap in the body where you want the attachment.
- Above the keyboard, tap the document icon (tap the arrow or Aa first if you don’t see it). You can also touch and hold in the body and choose Insert Attachment or similar from the menu.
- Tap Browse > Google Drive, then pick the file.
Other Ways to Send a Drive File
| Method | What the recipient gets |
|---|---|
| Attach via Files (above) | A copy of the file |
| Gmail app: paperclip > Drive | A Drive link (or attachment for some file types) |
| Drive app: ⋮ > Send a copy | A copy through Mail or any app |
| Drive app: Share > Copy link | A link; set sharing permissions first |
For large files, send a link. Mail may offer Mail Drop for big attachments, and many email services limit attachment size.
If pictures are missing, see how to load images in emails.
Sharing gift ideas? See how to share an Amazon wish list.
Troubleshooting
- Drive missing from Browse: Open the Drive app once, then enable it under ⋯ > Edit in Files.
- Google Docs files attach oddly: Docs, Sheets and Slides files are online documents. Send a link, or in the Drive app use Send a copy to choose a format like PDF.
- Recipient can’t open a link: Change sharing to “Anyone with the link” or add their email address in Drive.
- Too many new-mail alerts while you work? See turning off email notifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need the Google Drive app?
Yes, for Drive to appear in the Files picker.
Can I attach several files?
Repeat the steps for each file, or share a Drive folder link.
Summary
- Install Google Drive and enable it in Files.
- In Mail, tap the document icon in the body.
- Browse > Google Drive > choose the file.
- Send a link for large files or Google Docs.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.