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Forum Discussion

DropBilly's avatar
DropBilly
Explorer | Level 3
6 months ago

Why can't the recipients of a shared link access it from the web, but are asked to open the app?

I have a dropbox account and use it on on my iOs apps as well as app on MacBook and iMac.  

 

I want to be able to share the documents in one folder with a few people (Advance Healthcare Directive, POA, will, emergency instructions, etc.) but I don't want them to have to have the app on their iPhone or computer, but to view through browser.  

 

Previously this was possible.  Now when someone tries to open the link that I shared with them it tells them they have to download the latest app.  I chose DropBox on purpose because the app was not required.  

 

Any information or suggestions appreciated.

  • Hannah's avatar
    Hannah
    6 months ago

    Hey DropBilly, thanks for the screenshot and the additional info.

     

    If they just tap on "View folder", where does it redirect them to?

  • Nancy's avatar
    Nancy
    Icon for Dropbox Staff rankDropbox Staff

    Hey DropBilly! Thanks for your post. 

     

    When sharing a Dropbox link with other people, they don’t need a Dropbox account to access it; that’s true. 

     

    Have they forwarded you a screenshot of what they see though, when trying to open it? Feel free to post it here, so that I may have a visual (you can mask any personal info that may be showing). 

     

    Let me know when you’re ready.

    • DropBilly's avatar
      DropBilly
      Explorer | Level 3

      Thanks for your response Nancy.  Here's a screenshot when someone on their iPhone clicks on a link I sent.  As I said in my original post, previously when I sent a link to a folder on my dropBox and it was clicked on an iPhone, it would simply open the folder whether you had the app or not. Now it says "You need the new app to continue"

       

      • EspaceSud's avatar
        EspaceSud
        New member | Level 2

        The "view folder" is too small. It's not clear for most of our users.

        Bad UX so far.

  • DropBilly's avatar
    DropBilly
    Explorer | Level 3

    I wasn't able to edit my post.  Also important -- which was the case previously -- that they not need a dropbox account to view or download from the folder I've shared with them.

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