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.
Some of the changes you can expect to see are as follows:
- Sync Icons: Now managed by macOS, these match the updated system appearance.
- Sync Performance: Dynamically adjusted by macOS—may slow down to conserve battery or when your Mac runs hot.
- Dropbox Folder Location: Moves to ~/Library/CloudStorage; appears under Locations instead of Favorites in Finder.
- Third-Party Link Breaks: Files linked in third-party apps may need re-linking due to the new location.
- Favorites Access: You can drag individual folders from Locations to Favorites for quick access.
- Finder Toolbar Icon: Dropbox can no longer be added to the Finder toolbar—this is a restriction imposed by Apple.
- Unsupported File Types: Certain file types—like Photos Library, Final Cut Pro libraries, and Adobe InDesign Lock files (.idlk)—can’t sync via File Provider.
- Online-Only Storage Behavior: If your hard drive is low on space, files that aren’t marked “Available Offline” may become online-only automatically—so mark key files to keep them local.
- Disk Space Reporting: Only files marked "Available Offline" count toward local disk usage; online-only files won’t show—even if downloaded.
You can find more detailed information on the changes to File Provider by visiting this Help Center article. Or if you’d like to see if you’re eligible for this update, you can find instructions on how to do so here.
This thread is specifically to answer any questions you might have about File Provider on Dropbox and collecting your feedback. Our Community Moderators are available to assist with any issues, and the File Provider team will be monitoring this thread closely for your feedback.
