Tag: connect

How to control your Android phone from a PC

Picking up my phone to check a notification or respond to a text annoys me since I want convenience. I always keep WhatsApp Web open in a tab because of this. Even while it meets the most of my communications requirements, it is insufficient. As a huge admirer of Apple’s iPhone Mirroring function, I have been searching for a practical method to manage my Android phone from my computer. I can do just that with these four apps.

TeamViewer QuickSupport

TeamViewer QuickSupport

Sometimes you need to remotely control your Android phone, either to access your device from a distance or to assist a buddy in troubleshooting a problem. This is made simple by TeamViewer QuickSupport, which provides complete remote control, enabling you to install apps, change settings, and browse menus from your PC.

It is easy to set up. Install the QuickSupport app on your phone, connect using the TeamViewer desktop app, and give the person helping you the unique ID. They are perfect for remote management, troubleshooting, and technical help because they can operate your device in real time when they are linked. In contrast to many alternatives, TeamViewer is compatible with web browsers, Linux, macOS, and Windows. End-to-end encryption and two-factor authentication are two of its robust security features. Additionally, it facilitates communication and file transfers, which facilitates teamwork.

There are certain drawbacks to TeamViewer. Access may be restricted by the limited free version, which may mark frequent personal use as commercial. Since network quality affects performance, lag may result from slower connections. It works well for remote control, but unlike Phone Link or Scrcpy, it is not designed for everyday phone mirroring.

TeamViewer QuickSupport is still among the best choices for safe, cross-platform remote access, particularly for IT assistance and troubleshooting.

Microsoft Phone Link

Microsoft Phone Link

Microsoft Phone Link, which is integrated into Windows 10 and 11, allows you to easily connect your Android phone to your PC. Without touching your phone, you can make calls, control notifications, send texts, and view recent photos.

The ability to replicate apps is one of its strongest features. For apps without web versions, you can use your mouse and keyboard to interact with them when you launch specific mobile apps on your PC. It is easy to set up. You can connect your Android phone to your PC via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi after installing the Link to Windows app on your phone. Everything updates automatically once it is synchronized, and the connection is secure.

Phone Link is revolutionary if you operate on a computer for extended periods of time. It ensures that you remain connected while minimizing distractions. The majority of Android phones can utilize its primary functions, albeit Samsung Galaxy devices are the greatest fit for it.

AirDroid

AirDroid

AirDroid is another excellent option if you want complete control over your Android phone from your PC. It is cross-platform, having a web interface and specific Windows and macOS programs, unlike some rivals. Once configured, you can remotely access your phone’s camera, manage SMS messages, respond to notifications, transfer files, and mirror your screen without ever touching your device.

It is easy to get started. Use the desktop software or log in via a browser after installing the AirDroid app on your Android phone and creating an account. Everything connects immediately if you are on the same Wi-Fi network. Although remote access is feasible, a paid subscription is needed for services like screen mirroring over mobile networks.

AirDroid’s versatility is what sets it apart. For presentations or to view particular apps, you can mirror your screens. You can even transfer data across devices wirelessly. Another benefit that helps you stay informed about messages and alerts while working is notification mirroring. Despite having a lot of functionality, AirDroid maintains simplicity with a clear, user-friendly interface. Premium users receive end-to-end encryption for added security if security is a top concern.

Scrcpy

Scrcpy

It can be inconvenient to constantly pick up your phone to check things, particularly if you work on a PC. By enabling you to mirror and manage your Android phone from your PC, Scrcpy solves this problem. It has no bloat and is free.

With an emphasis on low-latency, high-resolution screen mirroring without root access, Scrcpy is quick, light, and open source in contrast to many commercial programs. You have the option of using Wi-Fi or USB, depending on what is more convenient for you. It is easy to set up. After downloading the app, connect your phone to your PC and turn on USB debugging. When it is operating, you may use your keyboard and mouse to interact with your phone’s screen, which displays in real time.

Scrcpy is a comprehensive mirroring solution that supports audio forwarding in its latest versions. Wireless performance can vary, though, and some users may find the absence of integrated file sharing and multi-device functionality to be a drawback. Furthermore, even though third-party graphical interfaces are available, people who are not familiar with Scrcpy may find its command-line configuration daunting.

On the plus side, Scrcpy does not need to be installed on your phone, which lowers security concerns and conserves storage space. It improves with frequent updates because it is open source. Scrcpy is among the greatest free programs for managing your Android phone from a PC, provided you are prepared to overcome its drawbacks.

How you work will determine which tool is ideal for you.

For Windows users seeking a native, hassle-free method of syncing calls, messages, and notifications, Phone Link is my top pick. With file transfers, remote access, and notification mirroring, AirDroid goes above and beyond; however, some premium capabilities are subscription-based.

I have experimented with Scrcpy since I love open source software. Although it offers little lag and high-performance screen mirroring, I find its command-line configuration to be less than ideal. Last but not least, TeamViewer QuickSupport is an option; nevertheless, its limitations in the free edition make it most appropriate for infrequent use.

The most important factors – productivity, ease of use, or complete control – determine which tool is best. Whichever option you select, these options facilitate communication and task completion. It has never been simpler to control your Android phone from your PC. There is a solution that suits your operation, whether you require remote help, sophisticated functionality, or smooth integration.

March 15, 2025
Configure Android USB tethering on macOS
Even though Wi-Fi tethering is the most practical method for connecting an Android phone to a Mac, you may occasionally need to utilize USB instead.

However, USB tethering between Android and Windows is simple, but depending on the Android device you’re using, connecting it between Android and Mac can be more difficult. Here’s how to configure Mac OS for Android USB tethering.

Use the Built-In USB Tethering Option (if Supported)

A contemporary Android device running Android 12 or later may already have built-in support for USB tethering on macOS. To make it work, you might not need any additional strategies. For instance, on a Pixel 7 running Android 13, all you need to do is connect your phone to your computer to get started.
1. Unlock and connect your phone to your Mac via a USB cable.
2. If you’re using macOS 13, you may need to click to allow your phone to connect
3. A notification will appear on your phone labeled something like Charging this device via USB. Tap on it.
4. Under the USB Preferences screen that opens, set Use USB for to USB tethering.
Now that the issue has been resolved, you should be able to use your Mac to access the internet as usual. If you have a limited data plan and are using a 4G or 5G mobile data connection, be mindful of your usage.

If the notification doesn’t appear when you connect your phone, you can instead go to Settings > Network and Internet > Hotspot and tethering and toggle on USB tethering. This option will be grayed out if your phone isn’t connected to a computer using a USB cable, and remember that some of the menus may be slightly different depending on what phone you’re using.

To verify the connection on your Mac, go to System Settings (or System Preferences) > Network, where you’ll see your phone’s name listed with a green dot next to it.

If USB tethering on macOS isn’t supported on your phone and you can’t set up Wi-Fi tethering, you do have another option. However, this comes with a potential snag of its own.

Use the HoRNDIS Driver

The required driver is not present on older Android devices or those that lack built-in support for USB tethering on a Mac, which prevents the sharing of an internet connection. Fortunately, you can get it working by installing the third-party HoRNDIS driver. All Android devices are compatible with this driver, which is akin to the one used by Windows computers.

HoRNDIS is free and open-source and should work well in many cases. However:
- It hasn’t been updated since 2018, so may not support newer versions of macOS.
- It doesn’t work on Macs powered by Apple Silicon.
The discussions on the software’s Github page do include some workarounds to get HoRNDIS running on M1 and M2 machines. But it’s a complicated process that involves disabling your Mac’s System Integrity Protection, so is not suitable for most users.

Assuming the caveats don’t apply to you, here’s how to set up HoRNDIS on your (Intel-based) Mac.
1. Download and install the most recent version of HoRNDIS on your Mac (the PKG file).
2. It’s a good idea to reboot your Mac at this stage, although this may not be necessary depending on what version you’re using.
3. Now run through the steps we outlined above. Connect your phone via USB, tap the notification labeled Charging this device via USB, and set Use USB for to USB tethering.
You should now be able to connect to the internet. Go to System Preferences > Network, where you should see your phone listed with the green dot alongside it. This confirms that the connection is active.

To uninstall HoRNDIS, check the /System/Library/Extensions/ and /Library/Extensions/ folders and delete HoRNDIS.kext. Then reboot your Mac.

Using HoRNDIS is easy enough if your Mac is compatible. However, we’d only choose to use it if wireless tethering is not an option. You can troubleshoot your Android mobile hotspot to see if that helps.

USB Tethering on macOS Is Simple

If your Android phone doesn’t support USB tethering with a Mac natively, you’ll need to install a driver, but it’s simple to accomplish and functions as expected.

Sharing a data connection with a desktop or laptop from your phone is practical. However, you may share the connection from your Mac to other devices as well, so it doesn’t stop there.
November 19, 2022
How to connect to Google Home over Bluetooth

Back at Google I/O, Google revealed that Bluetooth pairing for Google Home was on the way, paving the way for more flexible music control. Rather than relying on Google’s built-in Chromecast support or waiting for your favorite apps to catch up, you could simply connect your phone to Home via Bluetooth and play like you would with any other Bluetooth unit. It’s a feature that should have been available from the start. Aside from that debate, Bluetooth pairing is now available on Google Home.
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We figured we’d guide you through the very boring method of setting up Bluetooth connections because it’s not the easiest thing to do right now (we can’t find a voice command to get this going). It entails using the app to locate a semi-hidden setting, pairing your Home, and connecting through your phone’s Bluetooth settings.

Instructions

1. Open the Google Home app (install it if you don’t have it).

2. Tap the Devices button in the top right corner of the app’s main screen.

3. Find the Google Home you want to pair over Bluetooth.

4. Tap its menu button and choose “Settings.”

5. Under “Device info” choose “Paired Bluetooth devices.”

6. Tap “Enable Pairing Mode” in the bottom right corner.

7. After that, you’ll go into your phone’s Bluetooth settings and look for your Google Home device. It should be there available as a Bluetooth connection option.

8. Tap on it to connect and allow whichever permissions it asks that you are comfortable with.

9. And that’s it! You are connected over Bluetooth.

10. To remove a connected device, you’ll head back into Google Home “Paired Bluetooth devices” and tap the “X” next to devices you want unpaired.

11. Going forward, as you disconnect and want to reconnect, just look for your Google Home in your Bluetooth settings. It should always be there for connection once you have previously connected.
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May 14, 2021