Transferring files between a Pop!_OS Linux desktop and an Android device can often be a cumbersome task, but the introduction of a new tool named Packet has streamlined this process significantly. This innovative application leverages Quick Share, allowing users to effortlessly send files as long as both devices are connected to the same wireless network.
Installing Packet
What you’ll need: To get started with Packet, ensure that your Linux distribution supports Flatpak applications, as this is how Packet is distributed. Additionally, Bluetooth must be enabled on your device to facilitate device discovery. For the Android side, any phone or tablet running a version of Android that includes Nearby Share—typically from Marshmallow onward—will suffice. Lastly, having user privileges with sudo access is essential for installation.
Begin by launching your default terminal on your Linux machine. The installation process is straightforward: simply execute the installation command for Packet and wait for it to complete. Once installed, you can either log out and back in to access Packet from your desktop menu or run it directly from the terminal using the appropriate command.
Within the Preferences window of Packet, locate the option for Static Network Port and toggle it to the ‘On’ position. Following this, it’s crucial to open port 9300 on your firewall to ensure seamless file transfers. If you are using a Ubuntu-based distribution, this can be accomplished with the command:
sudo ufw allow 9300
After these steps, you will be able to send files from your Android device to your Linux desktop using the Quick Share feature. The files received will be stored in your ~/Downloads folder, although this location can be customized within the Preferences settings.
With Packet, the once tedious task of transferring files between Linux and Android is now a smooth and efficient experience, showcasing the potential of modern cross-platform solutions.
