8 powerful apps for seamless connection between Android and Mac

You need an iPhone to use Apple's Continuity feature on a Mac.But if you're an Android user with a Mac, you still have several third-party apps that can provide seamless continuity between your devices.Let’s take a look at them below.

1.Android File Transfer

Let's start with Android File Transfer!This is a seamless file management application provided by Google for Mac users with Android devices.It allows you to browse your phone's storage while plugging it into your computer and easily share files between the two devices.When your Android phone is connected to your Mac, you can use drag-and-drop to transfer files between the two.

All you need to do is install the Android file transfer client on your Mac, connect your phone to your computer using a USB cable, and enable USB debugging on Android.

Of course, there are other options for transferring files between Android and macOS, but we chose Android File Transfer because it's an official app from Google.

Download: Android File Transfer (free)

2. AirDroid

AirDroid is a full-featured companion application that mirrors phone notifications (including app notifications, incoming calls, and messages) to your Mac.The app also supports screen mirroring, remote control, sending and replying to messages, managing contacts, and wireless file transfer.

The best feature of AirDroid is that once you install the software on your device, Android notifications will immediately appear in the upper right corner of your Mac, just like native notifications.You can even make calls directly from the desktop app, although you must use your phone to communicate.

If you choose a premium subscription, you can also unlock additional features like turning off and muting connection reminders.Overall, AirDroid is a very handy utility, especially if you are a Mac user and use an Android phone.

Download: AirDroid for Mac | Android (Free, subscription available)

3. Clipto

If you don’t want to spend the money on an iPhone to use Apple’s Universal Clipboard feature, then give this a try Clipto.As the name suggests, this app brings a universal clipboard to Android users using Mac.

How it works is simple: copy the text on either device, add it to the app, and it's immediately available on both devices.Since Clipto uses cloud sync, you need to create an account and log in with the same account on both devices.If you don't want to download an app, you can also use it through your favorite browser.

Clipto stores your clipboard history so you can revisit any copied text if you need to later.If you want to use the auto-sync feature, keep in mind that the free version is limited.

Download: Clip for Mac | Android (Free, in-app purchases available)

4. Vysor

In all these applications,Vysor Probably the app you end up using the most.This app turns your connected Android phone into a real-time interactive simulator, letting you control your phone with your mouse and keyboard on your Mac.You can reply to text messages, test projects if you're a developer, and even navigate using the arrow keys.

Latency is surprisingly low and you can play some casual games.While you can control your Android device and take screenshots for free, you'll need a Vysor Pro subscription to get drag-and-drop, high-quality mirroring, full-screen mode, wireless connectivity, and more.

Download: Vysor for Mac | Android (Free, subscription available)

5. VLC Mobile Remote

The popular video player VLC has a handy unofficial Android app that lets you control its playback remotely.As part of the setup process, you'll need to download a companion app called VMR Connect and install it on your Mac.Once set up, you'll have access to all options on your phone, including time range, subtitles, play/pause, volume, and more.

The app even lets you play any file directly from your Mac's storage, which is useful when binge-watching TV shows.To play audio or video, first add it to the playlist tag.Keep in mind that most features are behind a paywall, so you have to purchase the app to unlock all of its features.

Download: VLC Mobile Remote (Free, in-app purchases available)

Download: VMR Connect (free)

6Unified Remote

Unified Remote lets you control your Mac with your Android phone.This app allows you to browse and manage your Mac from your phone.You can move the cursor, access music controls, type using the virtual keyboard on your phone, and even browse computer files.

For a few bucks more, you even get voice commands, a floating remote, and a few other features.

Download: Unified Remote for Mac | Android (free)

Download: Unified Remote Full for Android (US$4.99)

7. Google Messages

Messages by Google is the company's primary messaging app on Android.Unlike other Android text messaging apps, you can also access Google Messages over the web.This means you can use Messages on other platforms besides Android.

The web version is the same as Android and allows you to send and receive messages.So when you get a message at work, you don't have to use your Android phone to view and reply; you can do it directly on your Mac.

To use Google Messages for the web, visit the website link below and scan the QR code provided using the device pairing feature in the Android app.

Download: Messages by Google for Android | Web (free)

8. Google Chrome

Since Safari is exclusive to Apple devices, bookmarks, browsing history, reading lists, etc. cannot be synchronized on non-Apple devices.However, Chrome supports Android, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Windows, so switching to it will ensure continuity between Macs and Android phones.

The key to accessing your browsing data on Android, macOS, and other platforms is to log into Chrome using the same email.With Chrome's sync feature, you can instantly pick up where you left off on your Mac when you need more screen real estate.You can also use Chrome as a password manager to keep your passwords close at hand, even on your Mac.

Download: Google for Android | Mac (free)

Let your Mac work with your Android phone

Apple struggles to provide a seamless experience when using Macs and Android phones.But that doesn't mean you have to buy an iPhone.You can use your Android phone with your Mac and still maintain continuity.Depending on the functionality you want to access between your Android device and Mac, you can use one or more of the above apps to suit your needs.