I often need to transfer files from my workstation PC to my phone, and vice versa. I’ve been looking for a file-sharing app with the following requirements:
- It shouldn’t have ads or spyware.
- It needs to be multi-platform so that I can use it with Windows, Linux, iOS, etc.
- It should be open source and well maintained.
Context
My primary operating system of choice is Fedora Linux, but I occasionally use Windows for video editing and gaming. I’ve been using an app called Nitroshare for quite some time now. It meets my requirements, but the problem is that it’s out-dated. The repository is not maintained enough.
The App
But, finally, the search is over. I’ve found what I’ve been looking for. It is hands-down the best file-sharing app.The app is called “Localsend” and it meets all my requirements. It doesn’t have any ads, no spyware, it’s multi-platform, and it’s well maintained!
Localsend
Localsend is a super cool cross-platform app! It makes sharing files between devices super convenient. It uses a REST API and HTTPS encryption. The best part? There is no need for an internet connection or third-party servers, making it lightning-fast and ultra-reliable for all your local file sharing needs! Since it’s open source, you can view its source code, contribute to it, or even customize it just the way you want if you have the skill set. Visit the githubrepository.
Download Localsend
The app is available on both Play Store and Apple App Store. If you want, you can also download the app from the official website www.localsend.org. The Windows, Mac and Linux client is also available on there website. Alternatively, you can visit the release page on github and download it from there.
What I Like The Most About It
Imagine a situation where you need to transfer a large file to your friend’s phone or laptop, but your friend doesn’t use LocalSend. Localsend has a featurewhere you can select files you want to transfer and generate a link plus a QR code. To get that file to your friend’s phone, all you have to do is just open the link generated by Localsend or scan the QR code.
This whole process doesn’t require an internet connection. Localsend creates a local HTTP server that serves the file you want to share. The devices need be on the same network though.
The UI is also clean and slick; it adapts with the Material You UI design. You should start using it right away! That’s all for now, peace ✌️