Question 1

How do I migrate from FilePicker plugin to Xamarin.Essentials?

Accepted Answer

Replace CrossFilePicker.Current.PickFile() with FilePicker.PickAsync(), adapt allowed types using PickOptions with platform-specific dictionaries, and always use OpenStreamAsync() for data access, as detailed in the migration guide.

Question 2

Which is better: FilePicker plugin or Xamarin.Essentials?

Accepted Answer

Xamarin.Essentials is preferable for new projects due to official support and integration, while this plugin suits legacy apps not yet migrated. However, Essentials offers similar functionality with fewer maintenance concerns.

Question 3

How to handle file type filtering on Android vs iOS with this plugin?

Accepted Answer

On Android, pass MIME types like 'image/*'; on iOS, use UTType constants like 'public.image'. The plugin's PickFile method accepts an array of strings, but you must manage platform detection manually.

Question 4

Why does my Android app sometimes return null when picking files?

Accepted Answer

This can occur if PickFile() is called twice in succession, as noted in the README. Ensure you catch exceptions and avoid overlapping calls, or consider migrating to Xamarin.Essentials for more stable behavior.

Question 5

Can I use this plugin with .NET MAUI?

Accepted Answer

No, it's designed specifically for Xamarin.Forms. For .NET MAUI, use the built-in FilePicker API or community alternatives, as this plugin isn't compatible with MAUI's updated framework.

Question 6

How to save a file after picking it with this plugin?

Accepted Answer

Access the stream via GetStream(), then copy it to your app's local storage. On Android, you'll need to manually add WRITE_EXTERNAL_STORAGE permission, as it's not auto-included like READ_EXTERNAL_STORAGE.

FilePicker-Plugin-for-Xamarin

What is FilePicker-Plugin-for-Xamarin?

Overview

Use Cases

Best For

Related Projects

Found a gem we're missing?

Not Ideal For

Pros & Cons

Pros

Cons

Frequently Asked Questions