I started developing Android Apps in my freetime. I have a desktop computer at home, which is my main development machine. I also have a laptop with the whole SDK and IDE set up. So far I just always zipped my project folder and put it on dropbox when I switched computers.
I guess there are easier ways how to do this (SVN, git etc.).
So what are you guys using to sync your code between different computers?
PS: I am the only person working on these project, so I'm not searching something to share the code with other people.
I personally use git since it's great for versioning and pretty fast.
However, in your case it might be ideal to simply set up a network drive which you can access with both computers. This way you'll have a single working directory accessible from anywhere.
(Since you're already using Dropbox, put the workspace into a Dropbox directory. This way, any changes made to the code will automatically sync up).
Number22 said:
(Since you're already using Dropbox, put the workspace into a Dropbox directory. This way, any changes made to the code will automatically sync up).
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Click to collapse
Yeah, I already thought of that but this may cause problems. I already have a lot of school documents (Word, Excel etc.) in my dropbox and I sometimes get errors when trying to save those documents directly into Dropbox. But I will try this and maybe it works ok. Otherwise I'll look into git, that sounds great.
Related
Well, I'm a typical WinMo guy. So please, excuse me if this is foolish. But, according to the research I've done, I think this topic has not been touched.
Many a times, we work on desktop PC. We have some of our files which we would DEFINITELY want on our Android. And we don't always have our device tethered to the desktop computer! Its also tiresome to manually copy files to the device!
Is there any service which allows us to sync our PC as well as Android with cloud? I wish, I can just put files on a folder on PC and they will be available on my device. Yeah! I know you would shout 'Dropbox'! Actually, in Dropbox, we have to manually download the files which we want. I want the automatic sync of a folder (chosen by me) to my device, so that it syncs in background and I have my files available on the go.
Thanks in advance.
Dropbox automatically syncs the dropbox folder... why dont you just use that as your chosen folder? Im not sure but i believe you can also choose whichever folder you want to use as you dropbox folder.
Sorry if this doesnt help
Actually dropbox does _not_ sync to Android devices. Their Android client does download on demand only, which really sucks, and I complain about it a lot.
Given that their iPhone client _can_ sync selected files it's just pure lazyness on their part.
But, this thread wasn't meant for DropBox discussion. Is there anything which solves the problem! C'mon Dropbox team, you need not to worry about our storage space! Get us app like iPhone!
Okay guys, I tried to come up with an idea for Android and I finally came up with one and I'd like to ask what you think of it before I publish to the public. So, I've had a lot of files on my computer in a folder called "Copy later" and I haven't had the time to sit down, connect my phone, and wait for it to sync all the files. I also am aware of many different apps which sync through WiFi but if I travel to places, I don't have the time to wait for it to copy. So, I decided to come up with a solution...Basically, you would turn on your computer, run this super lightweight app which takes your files in a specific folder (or a system folder like "My Documents of My Music") and send it to a remote server. Now, the remote server would wait for your phone to be available (like connected to the internet and to the server) and it will negotiate a connection with it. Once the connection has been built, the remote server will start transferring the files to the phone. When the files have been processed to the phone, the server will delete its "Temp container" and will wait for the computer to tell it to copy more files.
Now, people will also want to backup the contents of their phone and sync up their files. The same process also applies for the phone's data but slightly more efficient. Essentially, you can setup (optionally) some "zones" at which you can sync the corresponding data. For example, when you are at work, you can sync up your contacts and your "Work" folder. When you're at home, it can sync up your music files and maybe your Facebook updates. This is great because it takes in your GPS location and you can set a radius so that if you are within that radius, you can be syncing up some specific folder(s) with your computer. Also, in the event you lose your phone, you would still have the last synced files. This makes your syncing much more efficient.
If you like this idea, I have already started working on it so please tell me if you want to be a beta for it. Right now, it's invite only so post in this thread if you want me to send you a link. I personally think it is useful for me because switching from school to home, to friends' house, it is handy to sync only the stuff I change. Also, Im looking for a name for this app (still haven't thought of one). A good name will get a prize....
UPDATES
-Removed the middle server - Direct pc to android connection
-Encrypted transfers
-Connects through port 4000 so if you have port forwarding done for this, you can connect from anywhere in the world!
-Sends the data encrypted now
Alpha Program 1:
-This simply transfers data from pc to android and establishes a secure connection.
Alpha program 2:
-After long hours of work, I finally got it to transfer the data safely through the web.
-It doesn't send ANY data without encypting it first and this took a while to make but it finally does conversion without much lag.
-Basically, you choose an mp3 from your computer and send it over. Once it completes, it will play on device. Check out the quality...its equal to that on the computer...
Sign me up for the beta.
I don't quite understand.
What files would you be syncing?
How is this different than using DropBox, where I already have 2GB of space?
Who controls this 'remote server'?
dropbox is different because the files "stay" in the server, but in this the server is only a middle means for data transport. The files are deleted from server once the sync is performed. You can sync whatever you want, like music/videos/data/whatever other folder you choose.
Also, dropbox is basically a "file storage"/backup solution. This just transfers the files from desktop to device and back.
Alright. I have begun work on this project. Firstly, I have now eliminated the idea of needing a 3rd party remote server. Now, it will connect directly to the phone using wifi networks and direct tcp/ip protocol. However, the difference is that data will be transfered in ssl. This way, it will be very secure.
rkrishnan2012 said:
... I have now eliminated the idea of needing a 3rd party remote server. Now, it will connect directly to the phone using wifi networks and direct tcp/ip protocol. However, the difference is that data will be transfered in ssl. This way, it will be very secure.
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Click to collapse
My interest is piqued now I'm liking this alot! Would come in very handy.
im down for this!
Okay. Firstly, I would like to get a beta out today. This beta will simply send a file to and from your device and tell you if it was successful. There is a windows app and an android app which runs on your phone. Both are light but the point is to encrypt/decrypt the data sent.
I Like The Idea.... Also, If Your Open To Suggestions, I Think A Few Useful Features Would Be:
If You Had A Optional Folder On Both Your Sdcard, And Also Your Desktop, That Can Be Set To AutoMatically Send From Either End (Sdcard Or Desktop) Or Even Send To Email, Or Wherever Else When Files Are Dropped Into Either Optional Folder!!
Sent from my HERO200 using XDA App
Ok so you're saying it should automatically sync whenever things have been updated right? I think that would be easy enough. Problem now is that the computer has to stay on when you want to sync. Is that okay?
rkrishnan2012 said:
Ok so you're saying it should automatically sync whenever things have been updated right? I think that would be easy enough. Problem now is that the computer has to stay on when you want to sync. Is that okay?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes That Would Be Ok, But....
What Do You Think Of A Feature (If Possible?) That Can Detect If Its First Destination (Computer) Is Off, & If So More Or Less Have A Secondary Destination, (Email) Maybe?
Sent from my HERO200 using XDA App
Thats great. When it does a handshake, if it fails, it can resort to a secondary target....email? Isn't that too small of a space to store large files?
rkrishnan2012 said:
dropbox is different because the files "stay" in the server, but in this the server is only a middle means for data transport. The files are deleted from server once the sync is performed. You can sync whatever you want, like music/videos/data/whatever other folder you choose.
Also, dropbox is basically a "file storage"/backup solution. This just transfers the files from desktop to device and back.
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Click to collapse
I think you're trying to compete with dropbox by offering a service that doesn't require users to trust dropbox's security. I've looked at what they say about security here:
dropbox.com/help/27 (sorry, forum doesn't let me post actual links)
Reading that makes me feel safe about storing my files there. Then again, if I had data that would put millions of dollars or lives in risk if it got in the wrong hands, I'd want more security.
If you want a successful product, I think you should target it to this latter crowd -- users who take the security of their data very seriously.
right. Which is why i decided to eliminate the idea of needing a middle server.
Great idea. I was ( just like many others) have been looking for way to sync files over the net with no server in between.
It would be even better if the app in the Phone would auto detect any file chnage and sync with the computer.
Gud luk and let me know u need another tester.
Sent from my Dell Streak using XDA App
ok. an aplha has been posted and this is merely a test to see if my method of transfer works. Please try it and reply here if it works properly. It seriously takes only 60 seconds to test it out.
This app looks great! If you need some servers for temp. file storage hit me up via PM.
Keep up the great work
Thanks, but I think I am going to not do the temp file storage thing, as some people are concerned with the security of it. Anyway, I may however make a web based login thing where you can access the files in the computer remotely. This web client will act as if it were mimicking a device. Also, how did the app go? Did the transfer work?
Wow...this actually works...
vision
Great then. I will now make one which transfers a sound file (mp3 of your choice), transfers it, then plays it on the phone.
-Another alpha may come out tomorrow or tonight....
Hello,
Dropbox and other synchronisation services are actually not running in background and don't think folders. You have to manually download/upload files. Anybody knows application which will automatically synchronise local Android folder with cloud?
artisticcheese said:
Hello,
Dropbox and other synchronisation services are actually not running in background and don't think folders. You have to manually download/upload files. Anybody knows application which will automatically synchronise local Android folder with cloud?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=886445
Smestorage is another app.
However none works perfect yet...
But i am sure one day
I wouldn't mind writing such a beast, however I see one problem that users could complain about.
I have a hosted site with probably enough data storage (or I can add more). Thing is, I HAVE TO create the database and the tables within it. That means I have Admin authority which means I can see everything.
Now, I am not the person that would do such a thing and would even sign some type of non-disclosure document. But, are people going to upload their pictures, files, documents etc. knowing that I have access?
Rootstonian said:
I wouldn't mind writing such a beast, however I see one problem that users could complain about.
I have a hosted site with probably enough data storage (or I can add more). Thing is, I HAVE TO create the database and the tables within it. That means I have Admin authority which means I can see everything.
Now, I am not the person that would do such a thing and would even sign some type of non-disclosure document. But, are people going to upload their pictures, files, documents etc. knowing that I have access?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think people would prefer an interface to existing clouds rather than to have you host your own.
Yeah, agreed. However, any site of this type you go to, SOMEONE has access to your data...that's just the nature of the beast. And a reason I don't use ANY online service of that type.
Hell, Dropbox could be run by one person for all I know.
I have lately been playing around with my SGS2, trying to setup a nice sync between my Home PC, Laptop & Phone with the use of some battery-hogging sync apps. I said f* it to trying to keep my battery going for as long as possible - this phone is a smart-phone and I sure am going to use it as such. With the programs (+ normal daily usage) I will list below my SGS2 will easily run for 24+ hours without a charge and that's all you really need, charging it every night is not that much of a hassle.
Here are some of the programs I have used to get the job done. If you know any better solutions or other programs you use, please do share!
Firefox Sync (built-in to the browser)
For keeping all my bookmarks, sessions & browser history stored online for easy access. Everything is still synced locally so no need to worry in case you can not connect to the Mozilla servers. And I must say I like having the browser history with me on the SGS2 it saves tons of time when visiting certain familiar sites that you don’t have bookmarked! Firefox Beta on the SGS2 works well enough with the exception of no flash support.
Alternatives: Xmarks & Opera has a similar solution as “Firefox Sync”
Lastpass (Browser extension)
For keeping all your passwords saved online “securly” and then automatically logging you into your favorite sites. It can also save user registration info to make it easier/faster to register on new sites. If you are using Firefox own built in way of doing this - then stop it right now! The way Firefox does this is not secure enough and can quite easily be cracked with some basic knowledge. Lastpass is a lot more secure in the way it stores your passwords.
Read It Later (Browser extension & App on android)
A way to keep “temporary” bookmarks synced. Easily put it’s a secondary place to keep bookmarks that can easily be added and just as easily be removed (1click). Perfect for saving a bookmark in a long forum thread or other small items that you want to read later and remove after that.
Evernote
A way to keep all your notes synced & organized. There is many other ways to do this but Evernote does a good job. I personally use it to up-keep a ToDo List, save important notes & having a own sections for Android, PC, Work, School, Shopping etc. The interface makes it better then having a .txt in Dropbox and the program really starts to shine when you have it with you on multiply devices and always have access to all your notes quickly and easily
Dropbox / SugarSync
For saving files online and getting them synced locally on all your PCs. A good way for backing up your files as well! These programs should be familiar to most people by now. I personally use Dropbox it seems a bit more stable and the download speeds are faster. But SugarSync gives more free space (5GB) and the android app has more functions. I would like to use SugarSync but I have read about people having so much problem with it so I have stuck with the Basic & Stable Dropbox. These services are the easiest way to move files between your Computer and Android - perfect for getting your photos moved from the phone to the PC! I also recommend putting some portable apps in the Dropbox folder, quite handy to have. Check portableapps.com/apps for some free software that have been made portable.
Also take a look at “15 Hacks Every Dropbox User Should Know” maximumpc.com/article/features/15_things_you_have_know_about_dropbox?page=0,0
Thunderbird & Google Calender
How To: Integrate Google Calendar Into Thunderbird
makeuseof.com/tag/how-to-integrate-google-calendar-into-thunderbird/
Thunderbird for keeping all my e-mail accounts in one place + Google Calendar setup into it. If you add something to the calender on the phone it gets updated in Thunderbird and vice versa. It feels more natural to use the calender in Thunderbird then doing it from the Google Calender homepage. And I really enjoy reading all my e-mails in one place!
Google Reader
Keep your RSS feeds in one place and “synced”. A really awesome way of making sure you don't have to read new items multiple times. I have really been enjoying the time saved after taking this in use. Going from Home PC-to-Latop-to-Phone and always being able to check if there is any new news-items is really handy and time saving. The android app is also quite clean and a simple icon on your homescreen keeps you up-to-date on new items.
Alternatives: NewsRob
Google Docs
An easy way to be able to work with documents from anywhere. Also nice not worrying about having Office installed everywhere. The collaboration and share functions are also good features.
Alternatives: Portable Open Office & documents in Dropbox
Spotify
Music, music, music. This will cost you some money but in my opinion this is money well spent. For 9,99€ per month you get access to all the music you need on all your devices and you can even save them locally with the payed subscription. After I started using spotify ~2years ago I have not looked back and I have added almost 2000 tracks to my playlist soon. To be able to have that library with me on the phone is priceless. The tracks that can not be found on spotify can be added manually and then synced over WI-FI to the phone easily + you are able to have offline music saved on the phone so you dont have to worry if you are in a place with bad 3G/4G coverage!
uTorrent 3.0 & uTorrent Remote
Not a sync app really, but a way to keep track of your torrents remotely. You can also add torrents to your homepc remotely, so when you get home everything is there ready and waiting for you. And with the android app you can download stuff to the phone from the uTorrent at home!
TeamViewer
Free commercial remote-desktop. Very light, very easy to setup and very easy to use. And the android app works really well, so you got access to your computers from everywhere. In my case this is a last way out, if I need to drop something into Dropbox or do something on my computers it’s nice to have this setup and ready to use. Just in case something pops up!
________
Thats about it. I also use a sBNC to stay connected to IRC from multiple device at the same time, but that does not really belong in this thread. I hope you found something useful & if you got any better alternatives or other programs that you use - then please do share!
Excellent post! bound to help new and old users alike, well done!
Cheers
Missing Google Music Beta.
Admitted it is a invite only beta atm but for people seeking just music syncing it works perfectly.
Music Beta sure looks nice, looking forward to try it. Too bad invites is currently only available in the United States. Although Spotify is also able to sync your Music locally for offline play on the phone (but it's not free)
Thank you for this good summary of useful apps.
I personally only use Dropbox and Google docs.
Gdocs is able to store all kind of file, I use it to share .zip, .tgz or any other souce files (i find it easier to share files than dropbox).
Useful list, thanks!
thanks for the list
If you use Dropbox then you'd like Dropsync. It's more like the real desktop sync. I don't know why Dropbox doesn't make their Android software work like Dropsync.
Thanks for Dropsync, will definitely check it out! Can also name DropSnap an App that automatically uploads pictures to Dropbox after they are taken. In the SugarSync andoird app both these features are present. I just don't feel comfortable using SugarSync. The latest version of my school/work file is more important any day of the week!
Midair said:
Music Beta sure looks nice, looking forward to try it. Too bad invites is currently only available in the United States. Although Spotify is also able to sync your Music locally for offline play on the phone (but it's not free)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have an account and I don't live in the Us. The magic weird is proxy. For me it's just the ability to have an online backup of my music library. It's free and it works, that's what does it for me.
For people looking for automatic picture uploading, the google+ app is able to automatically upload your pics to picasa.
Sent from my GT-I9100 using XDA Premium App
One thing is for sure, all the services that google provides are incredible. Just google alone will make your phone a sync-fest! Google Docs, Reader, Contacts, Gmail & Calendar you can get most your stuff done with these apps.
So, this might seem like a very noobish qustion, but it's actually something that's been playing on my mind for a while... Like, since 2010...
I've been using what many of you will probably consider a stone-age way of managing my contacts ever since I got my fist android device, the mighty BLADE!!!
I'm not a fan of "helper apps", like Kies, or iTunes - Nor do I like being tied to a particular piece of software, that might not be present on a public computer if I need to access one in an emergency, or someone else's machine if I'm not at home, etc..
(Hell, I don't even like playlists; All my thousand plus MP3s are kept in a single folder, organised by artist & title in the filename itself, so that any media player I use always organises them properly, without having to maintain separate playlist files....)
So anyway, all this time, my way of maintaining my contacts has been to keep a copy of my contacts list in .CSV format on my SD Card.
When I add a new contact, I simply add a new line to the .CSV, enter the details between the correct commas, upload it to my gmail account & update my contacts there. Finally, I sync my phone's contacts to google to get the new contact on my phone.
This lets me edit my contacts in Notepad (no helper app, it's basically a text file just with a .CSV extension), and gives me a cloud-based backup in case of phone loss...
However, the act of updating the .CSV, upping it to google, and then syncing is quite cumbersome...
So I figured I'd ask if I'm the only one quite so OCD about how they manage their contacts off the device itself, and if so, if there's a more elegant way to do it, while keeping the need of 3rd party software to a minimum?
Something akin to a small standalone contacts manager for windows, that lets me edit my contacts on my PC, save them as a file that can be edited without any special software, and then push them to my device?
(but one that's not bloated and doesn't have a bunch of unnecessary "features", like file/media transfer, music player, etc...)
Hell, typing this out loud, I'm tempted to dust off my old copy of VB 6 & write a single-form, non-install windows program to simplify editing a .CSV file, to break it down into the fields and output to .CSV... The part where it bypasses uploading to google & pushes right to my phone would probably stump me though...
Or maybe there's a better method I've not thought of yet?
Anyway, sorry for the long-ish post! Thanks
I just use the contacts app's import/export feature.
But I don't think windows can open the file without a third-party program.