How to build file sharing in Bubble

The simplest way to build file‑sharing in Bubble is to create a File data type, store uploads using Bubble’s built‑in file uploader, and control access with Privacy Rules so only authorized users can view or download the file’s URL. Bubble hosts the uploaded file automatically; your job is to create workflows for uploading, generating a share link, and showing the file only to the right users.

Core Structure

You create a data type (for example, Shared File) with fields like File (file), Owner (User), and Allowed Users (list of Users). A user uploads a file with a File Uploader element, a workflow creates a Shared File record, and you display those files in a repeating group filtered by privacy rules.

• File field stores the actual file URL Bubble gives you after upload.
• Allowed Users lets you add specific people who can open or download the file.
• Privacy Rules hide the file URL from anyone who shouldn’t see it.

Setting Proper Privacy Rules

In the Data tab → Privacy → Shared File, create a rule so the file is visible only if This Shared File's Owner is Current User or Current User is in This Shared File's Allowed Users. This prevents URL leaks.

• Turning on Allow access to file URLs only for authorized users keeps files private.

Uploading & Sharing Workflow

When the user clicks Upload, run a workflow that creates the Shared File entry and stores the uploader’s value:

// "Create a new Shared File" action
File = FileUploader's value
Owner = Current User
Allowed Users = empty list // add later if sharing

To share with someone, add an action that modifies the Shared File:

// "Make changes to a thing" action
Allowed Users add Input User

Displaying & Downloading Files

Use a Repeating Group with type Shared File and source “Do a Search for Shared Files”. Privacy rules ensure each user only sees items they’re allowed to.

• Insert a link element with “Shared File’s File” to let users download.
• You can also add buttons like “Copy share link” which just copies the File’s URL.