How to use Google Docs offline — edit files on PC, iOS and Android without a connection

Google Docs
(Image credit: Adobe Stock)

Google Docs is a widely used online word processor that's completely free to use, making it incredibly popular to read, write and edit documents online. But what if your Wi-Fi connection drops while working on important documents that urgently need to be sent off? Well, you're in luck.

The good news is you can access Google Docs offline, which lets you continue working on documents without having a connection to the internet. It's an incredibly handy function to switch on, especially when you find yourself in a bind. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to set up Google Docs' Offline mode. 

How to use Google Docs offline 

While you are able to view and edit files without a Wi-Fi connection, you'll still need to be online before turning on offline mode on Google Docs. Before switching on offline access, be sure to use a Chrome browser, install the Google Docs Offline Chrome extension, and not use Incognito mode. 

(Image credit: Future)

1. Open Google Docs on Chrome and click on the Menu icon. Make sure you're signed in.

(Image credit: Future)

2. Select Settings.

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3. Click the switch next to "Offline" to turn on the offline settings. If you didn't previously install the Google Docs Offline Chrome extension, you may be asked to "Add extension" as below. 

(Image credit: Future)

4. Navigate to Google Docs or to Google Drive and find the files you want to view and edit offline. 

(Image credit: Future)

5. Right-click the file or click on the three dots icon to bring up a menu, the switch on "Available offline"

You will now be able to use Google Docs offline. 

Use Google Docs offline on iOS and Android 

You can also view and edit files offline or without a mobile network connection on iOS devices such as an iPhone or iPad, along with Android devices. You will need to turn on the offline feature on each file. 

Google Docs Offline

(Image credit: Future)

1. Open Google Drive.

(Image credit: Future)

2. Tap on the three dots icon next to your chosen file, in either the document view or list view.

(Image credit: Future)

3. Tap on "Make available offline."

You will now be able to use a Google Doc offline in iOS or Android. Make sure you have enough storage or space on your device in order to save your files. 

Darragh Murphy
Editor

Darragh Murphy is fascinated by all things bizarre, which usually leads to assorted coverage varying from washing machines designed for AirPods to the mischievous world of cyberattacks. Whether it's connecting Scar from The Lion King to two-factor authentication or turning his love for gadgets into a fabricated rap battle from 8 Mile, he believes there’s always a quirky spin to be made. With a Master’s degree in Magazine Journalism from The University of Sheffield, along with short stints at Kerrang! and Exposed Magazine, Darragh started his career writing about the tech industry at Time Out Dubai and ShortList Dubai, covering everything from the latest iPhone models and Huawei laptops to massive Esports events in the Middle East. Now, he can be found proudly diving into gaming, gadgets, and letting readers know the joys of docking stations for Laptop Mag.