I used to be a huge Apple fanboy. The only issue I had with Apple devices was that they do not play nice with other devices.
That makes sharing files difficult.
So I had to use Dropbox or SD cards to transfer files.
It was annoying and quite frankly, a waste of time. On top of that, I had to be online to use Dropbox.
Now, I get why companies don't make this easier. They want to keep people in their ecosystem and buy only their devices.
But in this day and age, that's just silly.
If you're having the same problem, then this is the best solution that I've found. I have been using it for several months and it works flawlessly.
The Cross Platform File Sharing Solution
The app called LocalSend.
It's a totally free, cross platform and open source software that works on all major operating systems like:
- Windows
- macOS
- Linux
- iOS
- Android
File transfers have been super fast via LocalSend and the interface is intuitive and easy to use. In fact, it's been the fastest file transfer method I've used, including AirDrop, and I don't have to be on the internet.
I've used it to transfer files between all of the operating systems above, except for Windows. I'm sure it works great on Windows too, but who uses that anymore?!
If LocalSend appeals to you, then here's how to get started.
How to Setup and Use LocalSend
First, install the app on all of your devices.
The app will assign a random name to each device.
On a side note, the app chooses very positive names, which is fantastic. Other apps I've used come up with some pretty dark stuff. You can change the name of your device in the settings, of course.
When the app starts up, it defaults to Receive mode.
When you want to send a file, click on the Send button on the left side.
Then under Selection, choose they type of file you want to send.
Select your files from the pop-up window and click Open.
Finally, click on the name of the device you want to send the file(s) to.
The recipient will be asked to verify the receive. Once they do that, the files will transfer to them.
Again, since you're doing this over WiFi, the transfers are very fast.
The Only Downside
There is only one caveat with using this software.
You can only transfer files between devices if they are on the same WiFi network.
This is the only way to get around restrictions imposed by the various app stores and device manufacturers.
Not a problem if you're at home.
But what if you're on the road?
Luckily there's a simple solution for that too.
Create a Local Network Anywhere
You can get a portable router to create a WiFi network anywhere you go. It's also known as a pocket router or hotspot.
The beauty of this is that it has a battery and it's very small. So it's easy to take with you and use it without a plug.
Just turn it on, connect all of your devices to the WiFi network, and share your files!
On top of that, if you buy a router that has as SIM card slot, you can use it as a mobile hotspot for all of your devices. This is perfect for international travel because you can buy one SIM card and plan for the country you're in and use it for multiple devices.
Check eBay first because you can find some great deals.
You don't have to get an expensive one if you just want to use the WiFi feature. A really cheap one will do. They are currently available for less than $20.
But if you want a hotspot with a SIM card slot, be sure to do your research.
Here are things to ask when shopping for a mobile hotspot:
- Can it be used without a battery by plugging it into the wall? This is good if the battery dies.
- What are the maximum upload and download speeds? Most people won't need something super fast, but you don't want something ancient either.
- How long does the battery last?
- Can you add an external antenna for added range?
- For international travel, will the hotspot work in the country you're going to?
- Which networks does it work on? Some cheaper hotspots will only work on one network, like T-Mobile for example, even if unlocked.
- Is it firmware locked to one carrier, or is it unlocked and can be used on any carrier?
- Can the battery be replaced? Useful if the battery dies or starts to swell.
- Are there features like storage sharing via USB, or an Ethernet port? Ethernet ports are useful in hotels that have spotty WiFi.
This one from Netgear is a good one to check out and it isn't that expensive.
There are many similar devices out there and they are getting better all the time.
So look around and find something that works for your needs and budget.
Final Thoughts
Sharing files between different platforms used to be a hassle, but with LocalSend, now it's super easy.
As it should be.
The only limitation is that you have to be on the same network, but pocket routers or mobile hotspots make it easy and they are very affordable.
Now go share some files.
