How to transfer files from Android to PC or Mac remotely

AirDroid is a simple and effective solution to control your Android smartphone or tablet remotely via your computer, either a PC or a Mac. The app is great because you can transfer files to your computer or vice versa, as well as screencast if you have root access. Here’s how to get started using this cool tool that is one of the prized jeweled apps of the Android OS.

We gave it a whirl on the Nexus 7, where it worked fluidly, thanks in part to a solid connection. AirDroid has 3 functions: file transfer, remote control and screencasting (screen mirroring), the latter works as long as your phone is rooted. There are also additional features with the paid version.

First you’ll want to install AirDroid, which is available for free in the Play Store.

AirDroid - Best Device ManagerINSTALL

Once installed, you can choose to create an account or continue without signing up. If you connect to AirDroid outside of the same network, you will likely be asked to create an account and login again. To connect your smartphone to your computer, it couldn’t be simpler: just open the app on your Android device and open the AirDroid URL on your PC or MAC. Here, you will find the information to login, or you can simply scan the QR code from the AirDroid app.

Setting up AirDroid is easily done, plus you don't even need to set up an account, just scan the QR code. 

If you want to use AirDroid for screen mirroring, which means that your smartphone screen will show up on your PC screen, you must have rooted your Android device beforehand. If this is the case, when launching the screen casting, you’ll get asked for permissions via SuperSU.

Once connected, you can access files that you have on your Android device, copy and transfer them back and forth your computer. The premium version allows you to transfer files larger than 100 MB, but that is about it. On the other hand though, the standard version allows you to use the camera of your Android.

You can transfer files to and from your PC from your Android, it's super useful! 

In addition, the app gives you an overview of the storage and memory status of your device, as well as shortcuts to share and transfer files between PC (or MAC) to manage things like music files, videos, missed calls etc. Another extra from the premium version is the you can make calls directly from your PC.

And, you'll see details about your internal storage and memory on your PC screen. 

In summary, AirDroid is pretty darn simple, and it has a lot of potential. The interface is intuitive, and the fact that you can make calls with the premium version is a nice addition, in addition to a few extras like some system settings, like a tethering toggle. I use AirDroid to install APKS from my computer just by scanning the QR code.

Did you give it a try? What do you think?