AirDroid

If you want to transfer files between your smartphone and computer, you usually have to connect your mobile device to the desktop via USB. But, wouldn't it be nice if you could do this wirelessly, without using any cables? If the answer is yes, AirDroid is the tool you need. The app allows you not only to wirelessly transfer files, but also to manage your Android device from a web dashboard.

Looks like your desktop

If your smartphone and computer are connected to the same WiFi network, starting to use AirDroid is as simple as opening a webpage in your desktop browser and then scanning the embedded QR code with your phone's camera. Alternatively, with an AirDroid account, you can manage your mobile device from anywhere, as long as it connected to the internet.

The web dashboard is where all the interesting stuff happens. The interface is similar to the one of a desktop operating system and included icons, resizable windows and widgets. No matter what desktop OS featuring a GUI you use, the learning curve is minimal. Also worth mentioning is that web interface supports multiple desktops, allowing you to freely move windows between the desktops in order to prevent clutter.

Comprehensive file manager

AirDroid is a fully featured Android manager and puts all the functionality you need at your fingertips. From the web dashboard you can view your SMS and call logs, conveniently compose messages using your computer's keyboard, manage your contacts, view all your media files, change ringtones, shoot photos using your smartphone's camera, push URLs to your mobile device, share clipboard contents, change themes, etc. You can also reply to WhatsApp and Messenger texts directly from within the app.

On rooted devices, you can also view your phone's screen in real-time and take screenshots, though in my case it didn't work. With an AirDroid account, you can even locate your mobile device on a map and remotely wipe all sensitive data in case it was lost or stolen.

File browser, APK installer

AirDroid comes with a file browser that makes it easy to manage files on your smartphone and transfer files between your Android device and computer. Furthermore, the software can install apps from .apk files, uninstall existing apps, as well as export installed apps as .apk for backup purposes.

The web dashboard also provides useful information about your smartphone, including battery level, signal strength and free storage space. In addition, AirDroid can mirror the notifications of your Android device on your computer's screen to make sure you don't miss anything.

Built-in system utility

Even though the web dashboard is the core of AirDroid, the mobile app also packs some powerful features, including app, file and task managers; as well as a tool that displays information about your device, including available storage space, CPU usage, free RAM and battery level, voltage and temperature.

The Android app can even turn your smartphone into a WiFi hotspot that allows other devices to connect to the internet. In case you don't have WiFi, AirDroid supports tethering, so you can share your internet connection with your computer via USB.

Add to watchlist:

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