Complete guide to installing and using ADB on Mac with Homebrew and getting the most out of your Android

Using Android development tools from a Mac has never been easier. More and more users are looking for ways to install Android apps via ADB using Homebrew, given the advantages of doing so quickly and without complications. The appeal of this method lies in its compatibility, ease of updating and the reduction of driver problems compared to other methods. OS, especially when compared to Windows, where the process is usually more laborious.

Although there are several guides and articles on the Internet, many are short on details or somewhat outdated. Here you'll find a complete, step-by-step, and up-to-date explanation so you can not only install ADB and Fastboot on your Mac with Homebrew, but also take full advantage of all its capabilities, from managing APK applications to connecting and advanced manipulation of your Android device. Additionally, tips for avoiding common errors, security recommendations, and an overview of the best compatible additional tools, such as scrcpy or TWRP, are included to transform your Android experience on Mac..

What is ADB and why is it so useful on a Mac?

ADB (Android Debug Bridge) is an essential tool for any user who wants to get the most out of their Android device from their computer.. Allows you to run commands console to install applications, make backups, transfer files, debug applications and manipulate the mobile operating system. ADB's utility ranges from basic actions like installing an APK, to advanced processes like installing new ROMs, unlocking bootloaders or flashing complete systems..

In a Mac environment, Using ADB is especially advantageous Because macOS does not usually require the installation of specific drivers, unlike Windows, which reduces connection and device recognition problems. Integration with Homebrew, the most popular package manager on the Mac, makes it easy to install and maintain these tools..

Why is Homebrew the best option for installing ADB on Mac?

Homebrew is the preferred way for both advanced and beginner users to install software on macOS.Why? Because it avoids the need to manually download gigantic packages like the full Android SDK and allows you to install only what you need (android-platform-tools) with a single command. Homebrew resolves dependencies, keeps applications up to date, and installs them cleanly on the system, reducing the risk of incompatibilities..

This is especially relevant in the case of ADB and Fastboot, as many older websites recommend downloading SDK packages that take up hundreds of megabytes when only a few utilities are needed. With Homebrew, you'll have the latest version ready to use in a matter of minutes, plus the ability to install extra tools like scrcpy for screen mirroring or TWRP for advanced administration..

Preparations before installing ADB: Enabling options on Android and requirements on Mac

Before you jump into installing ADB on your Mac, Make sure you have your Android device properly prepared and that your team meets the requirements:

• Activate developer options on Android: Go to Settings > About phone and tap 'Build number' repeatedly until you see the message that developer options are enabled.
• Enable USB debugging: Within the developer options, enable 'USB Debugging'. This will allow the terminal from your Mac to communicate with the Android device using ADB.
• OEM unlockIf you plan to make advanced changes like flashing a ROM or recovery, also enable the 'OEM Unlock' option in the developer options.
• Connect your Android to your Mac using a USB cable: Use an original or quality cable, and be sure to accept the trust message that appears on your device when you connect it for the first time.
• Update macOS and install Xcode Command Line Tools: Although it is not mandatory, keeping your system and Xcode command line tools up to date will prevent errors with Homebrew.

How to install Homebrew on macOS (if you don't have it yet)

Homebrew does not come pre-installed on macOS, but installing it is as simple as running a command in Terminal. Just open Terminal and copy the following:

/bin/bash -c "$(curl -fsSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Homebrew/install/HEAD/install.sh)"

This command will download and run the script Homebrew Installation Officer. Follow the on-screen instructions. If prompted to install the Xcode command-line tools, accept and let it finish downloading and setting up.

Install ADB and Fastboot on Mac using Homebrew

With Homebrew installed, Adding ADB and Fastboot is a matter of seconds. Run the following command in Terminal:

brew install android-platform-tools

This command will install ADB and Fastboot utilities, which will be available in the system to run from any directory in the terminal.

In some old guides you can find the use of brew cask install, But currently Homebrew has already integrated 'casks', so the above command is enough.

Check: Is ADB installed correctly?

To confirm that ADB has been installed correctly, you can run:

adb version

You should see the installed version of ADB and FastbootIf you receive an error or the command is not found, check that Homebrew is installed correctly and that android-platform-tools is listed among its packages.

First uses of ADB from Mac

With everything ready, You can now start using ADB to control your Android device.Some of the most common operations are:

• Check connected devices:

  adb devices

  If your Android is listed, everything is working correctly.

• Install applications (.apk files):

  adb install ruta/del/archivo.apk

  Replaces path/of/the/file.apk the exact path of the APK you want to install.

• Transfer files between Mac and Android using:

  adb push archivo /sdcard/carpeta

  or to receive files:

  adb pull /sdcard/archivo ruta_en_mac

• Back up applications and data with:

  adb backup -f FullBackup.ab -apk -all

• Reboot the device, enter recovery, bootloader, etc.:

  adb reboot

  adb reboot-recovery

  adb reboot-bootloader

• Update the system with an official ZIP file:

  adb sideload nombre_del_paquete.zip

Remember that some advanced actions may require special permissions on the phone or having unlocked the bootloader.. Also, always use correct file paths and be aware of the differences between the directory slashes on macOS (/) and Windows (\).

The role of Fastboot and other recommended tools

Fastboot is a companion utility that allows you to modify system partitions, flash custom recoveries, and unlock the bootloader. BootAlthough its use is usually reserved for more advanced tasks (such as rooting phones, flashing TWRP, or changing the ROM), it is advisable to know the basic commands:

• fastboot devices – Lists connected devices in bootloader mode.
• fastboot oem unlock – Start unlocking the bootloader (may require a manufacturer code).
• fastboot flash recovery twrp.img – Install a custom recovery like TWRP.
• fastboot reboot – Reboot the device from Fastboot.

Among the recommended tools to complement your experience are:

• scrcpy: Allows you to view and control your Android screen from your Mac with a simple connection. It also installs with Homebrew:

  brew install scrcpy

  Once USB debugging is enabled and running scrcpy In the terminal, a window will appear that replicates the screen and sound of the Android device, ideal for tutorials or meetings.

• TWRP: Essential custom recovery for making full backups, installing ROMs, and managing partitions.
• Magisk: Advanced solution for rooting devices and managing root permissions securely.

Security and backup recommendations

Before performing any advanced operations (root, ROM change, recovery flashing), always make a full backup of your data.You can save the backup to the cloud, a microSD card, or directly to your Mac. Using TWRP makes it easy to create full nandroid backups of your system.

You should be aware that rooting and modifying the system may void your warranty and carry risks.If the process is interrupted or performed incorrectly, your device could be rendered unusable. Check your model's compatibility with the tools before beginning, and consider seeking expert help if you have any questions.

Advantages of using Mac over Windows for ADB and Fastboot

One of the great advantages of using macOS is that it usually does not require the installation of drivers. for the system to recognize your Android device, while on Windows this can be a common barrier. Additionally, Package management through Homebrew makes both installing and updating tools much faster, easier, and safer..

Another advantage is that You don't need to install huge SDK packages or deal with confusing paths; you can run ADB or Fastboot directly from any directory in the Terminal.

Common mistakes when installing and using ADB on Mac (and how to avoid them)

• Do not accept USB debugging on your mobile: Make sure to grant permissions when connecting the device.
• Outdated Homebrew: Execute brew update before if you have installation problems.
• Xcode Command Line Tools installation failed: If the system prompts you and it does not install automatically, you can force the installation with xcode-select --install.
• Poor quality USB cables: If the device is not detected correctly, try another original cable.

How to uninstall ADB and Fastboot if you no longer need them?

Removing android-platform-tools is as simple as uninstalling them from Homebrew. Simply run:

brew uninstall android-platform-tools

This will clean all files and return your system to its original state before installation. If you want to completely remove Homebrew, you can follow the official uninstall process on the Homebrew website.

When to use alternative methods to Homebrew

In very specific cases (for example, if you need a specific version of ADB or your device has compatibility issues), you can always download the tools directly from the official Android Developers website. However, The recommended route for most current users is still Homebrew due to its simplicity and speed..

Using ADB and Fastboot on your Mac opens up a wide range of possibilities for managing, customizing, and getting the most out of your Android device.. Thanks to Homebrew, installation is simple and accessible even for startersIf you also combine other utilities like scrcpy or TWRP, you'll have an advanced control and development environment on your computer, without the headaches typical of other systems. Make backups, stay informed, and enjoy the full power of Android... directly from your Mac.