KDE Connect
Version: 21.04 Web: https:// kdeconnect.kde.org
For a long time we were looking for an outstanding application that would have strong ties with the KDE Plasma desktop. Not just using the same UI toolkit or respecting KDE-specific environment variables, but something truly special. We’ve seen dozens of high-quality and promising applications using the Qt5 toolkit or even sporting a premier integration with KDE Plasma, but none was as grand as KDE Connect (see LXF222). Yes, we also have GSConnect (see LXF268) for Gnome, but the original software was created and tailored specifically for the KDE desktop.
KDE Connect is an undisputed winner this time because it adds a killer feature that wasn’t available before. In particular, it links your Android phone with your Linux computer and enables sharing and remote control. Basically, it’s how Apple had once integrated iPhone with its desktop OS.
There are so many things KDE Connect can do beyond simple notifications sharing that it’ll take your breath away! Use your handheld screen for remote mouse control, access the phone’s file system from Linux, control your desktop media player from the phone, read and write SMS, explore your address book, find your lost phone… the list goes on!
Install the KDE Connect application on your phone from the Play Market, connect both the phone and the Linux system to the same network, and finally make sure no firewall is blocking the connection. No extra steps are required on the KDE side since KDE Connect is normally bundled with it and available right out of the box (if not, check the package manager).
KDE Connect has always been the best in its class, and at some point it became cross-platform too. Users of macOS and Windows can enjoy the official KDE Connect versions – share the FOSS love!