Syncthing-Fork for Android serves as a user-friendly interface for the Syncthing synchronization tool, designed to replace traditional cloud services with a decentralized and open-source solution. This application emphasizes user control over personal data, offering a robust alternative to reliance on proprietary systems. With this fork, your data is stored solely on your devices, with full authority granted to the user on how it is shared and transmitted.
The application features a clear and accessible user interface that allows users to monitor the progress of folder and device synchronization at a glance. A notable tool within the app is the "Syncthing Camera," which is currently in beta. This optional feature allows users to take photos with someone else, and have those pictures stored in a shared Syncthing folder on both phones, all without the involvement of cloud services. The camera functionality requires additional permissions, emphasizing user choice and privacy.
In an effort to optimize battery performance, the app offers a “Sync every hour” option. This setting can help conserve battery life by reducing the frequency of synchronization activities. Furthermore, users can customize sync conditions on a per-device and per-folder basis, tailoring the sync experience according to their specific needs. Additionally, the interface incorporates an intuitive recent changes section, where users can click to access modified files directly.
Users can manage folder and device configurations even when Syncthing is not actively running, providing greater flexibility and convenience. The user interface also informs individuals about the operational status of the application, clarifying reasons why Syncthing might not be functioning at a given time. Moreover, this update resolves prior issues related to battery consumption, ensuring smoother performance and efficiency.
The ability to discover other Syncthing devices on the same network and easily add them enhances the application's usability. With support for two-way synchronization on external SD cards since Android 11, the Syncthing-Fork expands its functionality further. The overarching goal of this fork is to create a collaborative environment for community-driven enhancements, addressing bugs rapidly, and allowing users the flexibility to enable or disable new features accessible via the UI. This ongoing development underscores the commitment to an improved user experience with every release.