Dropbox support for macOS on File Provider

Updated Jun 06, 2024
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This article describes an update available on all Dropbox plans. 

Dropbox is continuing to expand the rollout of full support for macOS 12.5 and later. Dropbox for macOS on File Provider is our latest update that utilizes Apple’s updated File Provider API and fixes issues related to opening online-only files in third-party applications. This updated experience is more deeply integrated with macOS and comes with some changes required by the API. 
 

Dropbox is actively working to preserve the reliability and quality of our sync experience along with these changes. Most customers are now eligible for Dropbox for macOS on File Provider.
 

To check your eligibility for updating to Dropbox for macOS on File Provider:

  1. Click the Dropbox icon in your menu bar in the top right corner of your screen.
  2. Click your initials in the upper right.
  3. Click Preferences.
  4. Click the Sync tab.
  5. Click Get started.

If you’re not eligible for the update, you’ll see, “You are not eligible for the new Dropbox for macOS on File Provider at this time.” under Dropbox folder updates in the Sync tab.


If you’re already on Dropbox for macOS on File Provider, it will say so under Dropbox folder updates in the Sync tab.

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Notes:

  • We’re working directly with a small subset of macOS users with complex configurations to ensure their migration is as seamless as possible. 
  • Some macOS users with complex configurations won’t be migrated at this time. These users will continue on their existing Dropbox experience.
  • 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 for macOS on File Provider.

While we recommend opting-in to the latest version of Dropbox for macOS on File Provider, this migration isn’t required for you to continue using Dropbox. If you are 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 for macOS leveraging the File Provider API is available.

Learn more about the expected changes with Dropbox for macOS on File Provider.
 

Want to get support and share your feedback on using Dropbox for macOS on File Provider? Join the conversation in our community forum.

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