Linux users can now enjoy seamless wireless file transfers from Android devices using Google’s Quick Share, thanks to a brand-new open-source app called Packets. Built with Rust and GTK4, Packets is a game-changing file transfer utility that eliminates the pain of clunky workarounds previously required for Android-Linux interoperability.
What Are Packets for Linux?
Packets is a partial implementation of Google’s Quick Share protocol, allowing Linux desktops to send and receive files natively from Android devices. Unlike older solutions, Packets doesn’t require an app on your Android device; it integrates directly with Android’s built-in Quick Share system.
Why Packets Is a Game Changer for Linux Users
- Native Android Quick Share Support
No third-party apps needed on Android. Just use your device’s native share menu. - Wireless File Transfers via Bluetooth + Wi-Fi
Utilises Bluetooth and mDNS (Multicast DNS) over Wi-Fi for fast, direct sharing—no cables or internet required. - User-Friendly Linux Interface
Drag and drop files or use a file picker. Your Android device receives them just like on Windows or macOS.
How to Use Packets
Prerequisites:
- Both devices must have Bluetooth enabled
- Both must be on the same Wi-Fi network that supports mDNS
From Linux:
- Open the Packets app
- Drag and drop your file or select it using the file picker
- Choose your Android device from the list
From Android:
- Tap the Share icon on any file
- Choose Quick Share
- Select your Linux device
Where to Download Packets
- 🔗 Flatpak Available on Flathub
Install Packets from Flathub—compatible with all major Linux distributions. - Nightly Builds for Developers and Early Testers
Try the latest features and improvements ahead of stable releases. - Open Source on GitHub
Packets is fully open-source. Developers and contributors are welcome to collaborate and improve the app.
Visit Packets on GitHub
Why This Matters for the Linux Ecosystem
Packets remove a major friction point for Linux desktop users. By offering native Android interoperability, it puts Linux on more equal footing with Windows and macOS in terms of everyday usability.
This kind of seamless file sharing is not just about convenience; it’s about desktop legitimacy. With tools like Packets, switching to Linux becomes a more viable option for Android users tired of clunky workarounds and limited compatibility.
The Bottom Line
Packets for Linux fills a long-standing gap in the Linux ecosystem. It delivers fast, native Android file sharing without hacks, cables, or third-party apps.
If you’re a Linux user with an Android phone, this app is a must-have utility that brings much-needed convenience and functionality to your daily workflow.
