Ultimate AirDroid Tutorial: Connect, Transfer, Control, and Mirror Screen

Last update: 10/09/2025
Author Isaac
  • Connect Android and PC via local or remote Wi‑Fi and manage key permissions.
  • Transfer files both ways, whether you're nearby or even without internet.
  • Activate remote control, camera, notifications, calls and AirIME keyboard.
  • Mirror screens with AirDroid Cast: Android/iOS to PC, browser and TV.

airdroid

If you are looking for a convenient way to connect your Android to your computer wirelessly, AirDroid is one of the most powerful solutions to transfer files, manage content, remotely control your phone, and even mirror your screen. In addition to its desktop app, it also has a web version and a dedicated casting module. AirDroid Cast, which expands the range to iOS, Windows and televisions.

In the following lines you will find a complete and updated guide that includes everything you need: Local and remote connection modes, two-way file transfer, backup, remote control (including camera and AirIME keyboard), notifications, dial-up calling, and AirDroid Cast mirroring optionsIt's written with a practical approach and clear steps to get you up and running in minutes.

What is AirDroid and what can you do with it?

AirDroid is an application designed to act as a bridge between your computer (Windows or Mac) and your Android device, with which you can access mobile content, move files, receive notifications, and operate remotely as if you had the phone in your hand. It works via Wi-Fi on the same network for free, and with premium options, allows remote connections when you don't share the same network. If you are interested in controlling it from the PC, there are also guides on control Android mobile from PC that complement these options.

Its interface is similar to a desktop with icons and menus, which makes it very intuitive. You can use AirDroid from the desktop app or from the browser with AirDroid Web, by logging into the same account on both devices. In parallel, AirDroid Cast focuses on Mirror and control screens (Android, iOS, Windows and Mac) and cast to TV, expanding the possibilities for presentation, training, support, and entertainment. Plus, if you need to control presentations or other apps at a distance, there are solutions for Use your phone as a remote control for PowerPoint which may be complementary.

Among the features most valued by users are: Wireless file transfer, remote control of your phone, receiving notifications on your PC, answering messages, managing calls, installing APKs, backing up your phone, and finding your phone.All this without neglecting the screen mirroring and recording options.

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Installation and first steps

First of all, you need the app on the devices you're going to connect. Install AirDroid on Android from the Play StoreDownload the desktop client for Windows or Mac, or access the web version in your browser. If you're using AirDroid Cast, also install the app on the transmitter and receiver when necessary.

Sign in with your account (this can be your email or a social media account). It is essential to log in with the same account on both the mobile and the PC. so that they recognize each other and synchronize. During the first Boot, grants the requested permissions so that the system can access files, notifications and other functions.

Once the app is installed on both sides, You will see the device listed in the Devices section of the desktop clientFrom there, you can transfer files, manage folders, activate remote control, or enable screen mirroring, depending on your needs.

Connect your mobile to your computer: local and remote

AirDroid offers two ways to establish a connection between your phone and your PC: Local mode (same Wi‑Fi) and remote mode (different network)A local connection typically provides faster transfer speeds and lower screen latency.

Local connection mode

Connect your mobile and computer to the same Wi‑Fi network. Open AirDroid on both, log in with the same account, and on your PC, go to the Devices section. Pairing is done almost instantly and you can start using all the functions wirelessly.

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Remote connection mode

If your mobile and PC do not share a network, enable remote functions first: on your phone, go to the section Me > Security and Remote Features, activate the modules you intend to use (mirroring, camera, notifications, etc.) and follow the on-screen instructions. This will allow you to have key features operational outside of Wi-Fi., ideal when you are away from home or the office.

Two-way file transfer

One of the biggest advantages of AirDroid is how easy it is Move documents, photos, videos, and other formats between your phone and computer, wireless, and with very clear interfaces. It also includes near and far options, and even offline methods.

Send files from your PC to your mobile

Open the desktop app and, in the side panel, click your device under Devices. Drag and drop files directly into the window (or use the upload buttons) to copy them to the storage from the phone. They'll be available on Android in just a few seconds.

Send files from your mobile to your PC

On your phone, go to the Transfer tab and choose your computer from the list. Tap the attach icon to select files or choose the images icon for photos.. Check the items you want and tap Send—the content will be sent to your desktop immediately.

Share by proximity (nearby devices)

The proximity search function allows you to Discover other nearby devices and share files quickly, just like using cross-AirDropOn mobile, open the Nearby tab and tap the search button. Available devices will appear within seconds, and you can start a transfer chat.

From the desktop, go to the Nearby tab and tap Search to locate nearby terminals. Select the device and share files with a couple of clicks, without complex configurations. It's ideal for quick exchanges with colleagues or friends.

Shipping without Internet or Bluetooth

In addition to connecting via Wi-Fi or remotely, AirDroid has incorporated a method to Send files between mobile phones without using the Internet or BluetoothBoth devices must have the app installed. One initiates the local connection, and the other joins; The app creates a small temporary server on your phone for the second to download the file. A chat window opens for unlimited sharing.

Manage and backup files

AirDroid doesn't just transfer: it also manage mobile storage from your computer, making it easy to upload, download, rename, delete, search, and review transfer progress without touching your device.

File Explorer from the PC

In the desktop client, open the File section. The Android folder structure will be displayed for you to navigate and apply actions with the right button. (upload, download, rename, or delete). It's a quick way to organize your phone from the big screen.

Backups on Android and PC

To do backup From your mobile, go to Tools and tap Backup. Choose the destination PC (same network) and confirm to start the backup of photos, videos, and other files. The process is performed securely on your local network.

You can also start the backup from the desktop, by going to the Backup tab and following the wizard to set up automatic phone backup. When you're finished, the Open Folder button lets you check the saved contents. Remember: Both computers must be on the same network for local copies.

Remote control: AirIME display, camera and keyboard

Once the remote functions are activated, you can Take control of your Android from your PC and manage apps with mouse and keyboard, without the need for rootIt's very useful for support, demos, or productivity.

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Activate the remote control

On your phone, go to Security & Remote Features and enable Remote Control. You will be prompted to install the AirDroid Control Plugin from Google Play and grant accessibility permissions. This provides smooth and safe control. without requiring root access.

From the desktop, tap the Remote Control icon (telescope) in the side panel, choose your device, and confirm. You will see the phone screen on the PC and you can operate with mouse and keyboard as if you had your cell phone in front of you.

Remote camera with one-way audio

The remote camera allows you to access the phone's camera and listen to the surroundings via one-way audio. On your phone, enable the Camera feature under Security & Remote Features and grant permissions. Then, on your PC, open Remote Camera under Remote Control to view in real time.

Remote Keyboard (AirIME)

AirIME enables typing from your computer keyboard directly on your Android. Open Remote Control on your PC and click AirIME. When you connect, you will see the prompt AirDroid Keyboard Ready and you'll be able to type in mobile text fields more comfortably. Keep in mind that Some apps do not show the input in real time until the text is sent.

Notifications, SMS and calls from your computer

To not miss anything when your phone is not at hand, you can Sync desktop notifications, interact with messages, and manage calls with the appropriate permission options.

Desktop Notifications

On mobile, go to Me > Security & remote features > Desktop notifications and tap Grant permissions. Enable notification access for AirDroid when prompted. and confirm. From that moment on, you'll see the alerts on your PC and, if you're using the native app, You will be able to interact with them depending on the app of origin.

Dialing and numeric keypad

AirDroid's numeric keypad allows you to dial numbers and manage calls from your computer. Grant Contacts and Call History permissions from your phone under Security & Remote Features > Contacts. On your desktop, go to Transfer, select your device, and open Dialpad. Enter the number and press Make call to start communication.

Queue dialing (premium users)

The queue dialing feature allows import dozens of numbers for the system to dial in sequence. It's ideal for campaigns or repetitive tasks. Open Queue Dialing, follow the wizard's instructions, confirm with OK, and You will see the list of numbers to the right of the keyboard. Note: Requires a premium plan.

Screen mirroring with AirDroid (mirroring on PC)

If what you want is view your mobile screen in large format and without complicationsYou can mirror it from the Remote Control module on your desktop. Grant permissions on your phone (Security and Remote Features), and on your PC, tap Screen Mirroring to establish the connection. The mirror works even without full control, useful if you only need to display content.

AirDroid Cast: Android and iOS to PC, computers to each other, and browser casting

AirDroid Cast extends functionality beyond Android. With it you can Cast your Android or iOS screen to a PC, mirror one computer to another (Windows/Mac), cast from your browser and also stream to compatible TVs. It even supports solutions that allow remote control for old televisions in environments without Smart TV native.

AirDroid Cast screen mirroring

Mirror Android to PC (wireless or via USB)

Install AirDroid Cast on your phone and computer. From Android, start casting and Choose whether to connect via Wi-Fi (same or different network with premium plan) or via cable USB. The cable connection offers better stability and lower latency, ideal for interactive demonstrations or games.

Mirror iPhone/iPad to PC

With AirDroid Cast you can mirror your iOS screen to Windows or Mac either wirelessly or via USB. Launch AirDroid Cast on both and follow the wizard.If the network is shared, Wi-Fi transmission is very fast; via cable you will get the lowest possible latency for demanding presentations.

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Mirror your screen from one computer to another (Windows/Mac)

AirDroid Cast also allows display the screen of a PC on another PC, even remotelyThis is useful for remote training, technical support, or presentations when you're not physically in the same location. Select the target computer and share the window, a tab, or the entire screen. as you need.

Cast to and from the browser (Web Cast)

With AirDroid Cast Web (webcast.airdroid.com) you can Receive broadcasts directly in your browser without installing software. Works with Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge on Windows, Mac and Linux, and allows you to send the screen to other compatible devices (Android, iOS, Win, Mac, Linux and TV). From the menu on the right you can reopen the Choose what to share panel. to adjust what you broadcast.

Stream to TV and mirror between mobiles

AirDroid Cast TV makes it possible Mirror your phone or computer to an Android smart TV (Android 5.0 or higher). The connection can be wireless using a QR code or streaming code, or via AirPlay from Apple devices on the same network.

Wireless Mirroring on Android TV

Install AirDroid Cast TV on your TV from the app store. On the home screen, you'll see a QR code or a streaming code to linkOn your sending device (Android, iOS, Windows, or Mac), open AirDroid Cast, scan the QR code or enter the code, and tap Start Streaming. In a few seconds you will have the screen on the TV, with the option of rotation using the remote control.

AirPlay to Android TV

If you use iPhone, iPad or Mac, you can AirPlay to your Android TV with AirDroid Cast TV. Open AirDroid Cast TV on your TV, make sure you are on the same network, and from your Apple device, open Screen Mirroring and select your TV from the listYou'll soon see your screen mirrored on your TV.

Advanced control with AirDroid Cast: Android and iOS

As an extra, AirDroid Cast adds exclusive control features. On Android, you can control the device from the PC after enabling the corresponding permissions. On iOS, the control requires Bluetooth (BLE) connection and that the system meets certain minimum requirements.

Requirements to control iOS from your PC

On macOS, make sure you are using a version recent and error-free Bluetooth. On Windows, you need Windows 10 1803 or higher with Bluetooth Low Energy and version 5.0 (If your computer doesn't support it, consider a BLE 5.0 USB adapter.) Turn on Bluetooth on your computer and iOS device, pair them by following the wizard and begins to control.

Screen recording

AirDroid allows you to record your Android screen both from your phone and while you're in a remote session from your PC. It's perfect for tutorials, training, or storing evidence.

Record from your mobile

On your phone, open Tools and tap Record screen. A small floating panel with the camera icon will be displayed; press it to start or stop recording whenever you want. Videos are saved to your gallery.

Record from PC during remote control

If you are already controlling or mirroring the device, click the camera icon in the mirror window to start recording from your computer. Press it again to stop. So you don't depend on controls on your mobile during a demo or class.

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