We decided to use Linux on a stable basis on our PC, given its lightness and its great customization capabilities, without forgetting the greater security than any other closed operating system. Unfortunately on other systems we could quickly connect the smartphone without even using the cable, taking advantage of the wireless connection and some specific programs or integrated tools. If we want to achieve the same result also on our favorite GNU / Linux distribution, we are in the right guide: here we will show you how to connect the smartphone to the phone without cable and how to transfer files wirelessly between smartphone and a Linux computer . We will show you several methods to obtain this functionality, both in case you use an Android smartphone in case you use an iPhone.
How to transfer files wirelessly between smartphones and Linux
In order to quickly transfer a file from your smartphone to your PC with Linux (and vice versa), we recommend using one of the methods listed below. We have selected only the simplest and most immediate methods, so that even novice users with Linux can perform file transfers without too many problems.Telegram (Android and iOS)
Currently we consider it the simplest and most immediate method to be able to transfer one or more files from the smartphone to the PC with Linux and vice versa. To take advantage of this method, simply download the Telegram app on our Android smartphone or iPhone, then download the official Telegram program for Linux (compatible with any distribution, including Ubuntu).
First we open the app on our smartphone and log in, entering our mobile phone number and waiting for the arrival of the SMS with the confirmation code. After logging in we can move to our computer with Linux: we open the Telegram app, we enter the same phone number used on the phone then we enter the access code provided directly by the app on the smartphone (a notification should arrive with the code to insert). After entering the code, the two Telegram apps will be synchronized and we can use it to quickly transfer files between smartphone and PC.
In this regard, we open the chat Messages saved on one of the two devices, select the paperclip icon and select, if necessary, the File button. The file manager integrated in Telegram (on mobile) or the file explorer (on PC) will open, with which it will be possible to choose the file or files to save on this personal (and private: nobody can see what we save on it) . Once the file has finished uploading, all we have to do is open the chat Messages saved on the other device, so we can quickly download the file or files we wanted to transfer.
AirDroid (Android and iOS)
One of the best services to be able to transfer files wirelessly between smartphones and Linux is AirDroid, available for Android and iOS (to use this app let's make sure that the devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network).
Once the app is installed on our smartphone, let's go to the PC with Linux, open any web browser and go to the AirDroid Web page. A QR code is available here, which we will have to scan with our mobile app in order to quickly establish the connection (just use the built-in camera). Once connected, we will have access to all the folders of the mobile device, so that we can quickly transfer any file from one device to another without using any cables.
Sweech (Android)
If we use an Android smartphone, we can use the Sweech app, one of the best of its kind.
By connecting the smartphone and PC with Linux to the same Wi-Fi network, we will have the possibility to manage all the space on the phone, so that we can quickly transfer photos, videos, images, music and documents without using the cable.
Connecting the smartphone and the PC is really very simple: we open the app on our phone and start the service, so as to obtain a Web address (to copy or mark); now let's go to the computer with Linux, open any web browser and type the address provided by the app. A smartphone management interface will open, with which we will be able to access all the folders present in the internal memory (and in the possible microSD present), so as to be able to move any type of file at a much higher speed than Bluetooth.
KDE Connect (Android)
Also for Android devices we can also use the KDE Connect app to establish the connection between smartphone and PC with Linux (connected to the same Wi-Fi network).
After installing the app on the phone, let's go to the computer with Linux (possibly Ubuntu) and install the following browser extensions: Integration with GNOME Shell (Chrome) and Integration with GNOME Shell (Firefox). After the addition we do install extension for the operating system called GSConnect (it works only with the GNOME Shell environment); from the Web page we click Add and activate the button that will appear by setting it to ON .
Let's check the menu at the top right of the operating system: a new item will appear, namely Mobile devices .
By clicking on it we will see our smartphone appear, ready to be paired (obviously we will have to leave the KDE Connect app open). Now let's go to the smartphone, click on the computer name, then on Request connection . A notification will appear on the PC with the fingerprint of the device it intends to pair with: just click Accept to establish the connection.
To transfer files from your smartphone to your PC with Linux, simply open the KDE Connect app and select the Send file item, so you can browse the folders of the device and choose which or which files to send to the computer.
Conclusions
If we have switched to Linux and do not intend to return to Windows, we can make life more "comfortable" by using one of the methods described above to connect the smartphone and the computer to transfer files without the need to use a cable or a management program owner. Telegram remains without a shadow of a doubt the most effective and fastest method, given that it is bi-directional and works even without the two devices being connected to the same Wi-Fi network (although it is preferable to obtain maximum speed).If we are also looking for the same features on Windows, we invite you to read our Guide to Programs to manage Android from PC and transfer data (via wifi or USB) . If instead you want to share the smartphone screen on the PC, we can read our article on How to see the Android screen on the PC and use it (without root) .
