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Cannot Delete Google Drive Files via Finder on Mac [Fixed]

In this guide, we will show you how to fix the issue of being unable to delete the Google Drive files via Finder on your Mac. When it comes to file storage and synchronization services, there’s no denying the fact that the offering from the search engine giants is right there at the top. Up to 15 GB of free storage and its deep integration into the Google ecosystem make it the go-to choice for a plethora of users.

Likewise, its handy cross-device support allows you to easily access the file from all your linked devices (devices logged in with the same Google ID). However, this service isn’t free from its fair share of issues. And as of now, another one has made its way. A slew of complaints has lined up across the Google Support Forum where users have voiced their concern regarding the inability to delete the Drive files on their Mac using the default file manager app.

Cannot Delete Files In Google Drive Folder via Finder Mac

Whenever they are tried to do so, the Finder throws up the following error message: “The operation can’t be completed because the item (name of the file) is in use.” The issue is only with the deleting of files, you could easily open, edit and modify it without any problem as such. What is even more concerning is the issue is prevalent for the past five months.

Cannot Delete Files In Google Drive Folder via Finder Mac

But, at the time of writing, Google has yet to even acknowledge this problem, let alone rectify it. With that said, there does exist a workaround through which you could fix the issue of being unable to delete the Google Drive files via Finder on your Mac. And this guide shall make you aware of just that. So without any further ado, let’s get started.

How to Fix Cannot Delete Google Drive Files via Finder on Mac

As of now, the only way to rectify this issue is to leave your Mac and instead use a Windows PC, iPhone, or Android smartphone. What you need to do is sign in with the same Google account with which you are logged in on your Mac on any of these three secondary devices. Doing so will list up all the devices that are present in your Drive and you could easily delete them from your Windows, iOS, or Android platform.

Cannot Delete Files In Google Drive Folder via Finder Mac
Left: Windows | Right: Android

While in no way this is a perfect way to fix the issue of being unable to delete the Google Drive files via Finder on your Mac, but as of now, this is your best bet when it comes to rectifying this issue. As and when Apple or Google makes any announcement or rolls out a path rectifying this issue, we will update this post accordingly. In the meantime, if you have any queries or know of any other workaround that has managed to spell out success for you, then do let us know in the comments section.


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