This article describes an update available to all Dropbox users on macOS.
Dropbox on File Provider uses Apple's updated File Provider (API) to more deeply integrate with macOS and fix issues related to opening online-only files in third-party applications.
Your device must be running macOS 12.5 or later to use the latest version of Dropbox on File Provider. Using the latest version of macOS is strongly recommended.
To check your eligibility for updating to Dropbox on File Provider:
If you’re not eligible for the update, you’ll see, “You are not eligible for Dropbox on File Provider at this time.” under Dropbox folder updates in the Sync tab. If you’re already on Dropbox on File Provider, it will say so under Dropbox folder updates in the Sync tab.
Note: We’ve begun rolling out support for storing the Dropbox folder onto compatible external drives for some users. Learn more about external drive support for Dropbox on File Provider.
While we recommend opting-in to the latest version of Dropbox on File Provider, this migration isn’t required for you to continue using Dropbox. If you're not interested in receiving the latest update, you can still open online-only files directly in Finder. You’ll receive a notification from the Dropbox icon in your menu bar when an update to Dropbox leveraging the File Provider API is available.
Learn more about the expected changes with Dropbox on File Provider.
Important: If you opt out of Dropbox on File Provider after you’ve already migrated, you’ll need to re-download any offline files stored on your device.
If you’ve already updated to Dropbox on File Provider and would like to switch back to your previous experience, you can do so with the following steps:
You’ll now no longer be on File Provider. Your Dropbox folder should now be found under Favorites in Finder.
Note: Before following the steps below, ensure that the new Dropbox folder location is syncing your files and working as expected.
To delete the unlinked folder:
Learn more about Dropbox on File Provider
Expected changes with Dropbox on File Provider
External drive support for Dropbox on File Provider
My computer is not supported
How to open online-only files on macOS
Understanding the sync icons on Dropbox on File Provider
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