How to install KDE Connect on Ubuntu 20.04 LTS
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Being able to seamlessly connect your smartphone with your Linux system can significantly enhance productivity and convenience. KDE Connect is a trusted, open-source project that integrates your Android device with your Linux desktop. Whether you want to share files, mirror notifications, use your phone as a remote control, or execute custom commands remotely, KDE Connect makes it all possible. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to install KDE Connect on Ubuntu 20.04 LTS with ease and confidence.
What is KDE Connect?
KDE Connect facilitates communication between all your devices. It uses secure protocols over your local network to provide:
- Shared clipboard between desktop and phone
- Phone battery status monitoring
- Pinging and file sharing across devices
- Multimedia control from Android
- Integration with system notifications
It serves as a bridge between your Ubuntu system and your Android phone, enhancing user interaction and removing barriers between devices.
Prerequisites
Before you begin the installation process, ensure you meet the following requirements:
- An Ubuntu 20.04 LTS system
- An Android smartphone
- A shared local Wi-Fi network for both Ubuntu and your phone
Step 1: Update Your System
It’s always a good practice to start by updating your system. This ensures all dependencies are current and reduces the chances of encountering package conflicts.
sudo apt update
sudo apt upgradeStep 2: Install KDE Connect
Ubuntu repositories provide KDE Connect by default, so installation is straightforward. Run the following command in your terminal:
sudo apt install kdeconnectThis command installs both the KDE Connect core components and the necessary plugins for effective communication with your mobile device.
Step 3: Install KDE Connect App on Your Android Device
Next, head over to the Google Play Store on your smartphone and search for “KDE Connect“. You can also find it on alternative app repositories like F-Droid. Once found, install the application as you would with any other Android app.
Step 4: Connect Both Devices
After installing KDE Connect on both systems, ensure that your Ubuntu PC and Android phone are on the same Wi-Fi network. Now follow these steps:
- Launch the KDE Connect app on your Android device.
- On your Ubuntu system, open the KDE Connect interface. If you’re using GNOME or another desktop environment, install the GNOME Shell integration tool:
sudo apt install indicator-kdeconnect- Once both KDE Connect services are running, your Android device should appear in the list of devices on your Ubuntu screen.
- Select the device and click the Pair button.
- On your Android phone, accept the pairing request.
After successful pairing, you should see a list of available plugins and features. You can now enable or disable features such as remote input, SMS integration, file transfers, and notification sync.
Tips for Usage and Troubleshooting
- Firewall: Ensure no firewall is blocking the service. KDE Connect uses TCP and UDP ports between 1714 and 1764.
- Auto-start: To make KDE Connect start on login, add it to your startup applications.
- Battery saving mode: Avoid battery optimization settings for KDE Connect on your Android device. These settings can interfere with connectivity.
If the devices fail to detect each other, restart both the KDE Connect service and your Wi-Fi connection. Additionally, verifying that both devices are accessible on the same subnet is crucial.
Why Use KDE Connect?
KDE Connect is secure, actively developed, and provides open-source transparency. Unlike many third-party synchronization tools, it does not rely on cloud services, thus preserving your privacy. Users who frequently toggle between devices will find the integration it offers pivotal to their workflow.
Conclusion
Installing KDE Connect on Ubuntu 20.04 LTS is a straightforward process that opens up a variety of convenient features between your phone and your PC. From managing files with ease to controlling media playback and accessing system notifications, KDE Connect stands out as a practical and secure solution for Linux users. With a few simple steps, you can enhance your productivity and create a unified digital environment across your devices.
