How to use the command 'kdeconnect-cli' (with examples)

How to use the command 'kdeconnect-cli' (with examples)

KDE Connect is a versatile tool designed to bridge the gap between your desktop environment and your mobile device. Using the kdeconnect-cli command line interface, you can perform a wide array of tasks such as sharing files or text, ringing your device, unlocking it, and simulating key presses. This article provides detailed examples of various use cases of kdeconnect-cli.

Use case 1: List all devices

Code:

kdeconnect-cli --list-devices

Motivation:

Listing all devices connected to KDE Connect is the first step to managing device interactions. This command is useful to identify all the devices that are set up and can potentially be paired or are already paired with your system. It provides a quick overview of your device network at any given time.

Explanation:

  • --list-devices: This option is used to display all devices configured in KDE Connect. It will show both paired and unpaired devices along with their IDs, which are essential for further operations such as pairing or sending files.

Example Output:

- Device 1: myPhone
  id: 16b9e28f5d6ba2bd

- Device 2: Laptop 
  id: e317957ab45d1a47

Use case 2: List available (paired and reachable) devices

Code:

kdeconnect-cli --list-available

Motivation:

Sometimes you only want to interact with devices that are currently within reach and paired with your system, and this command helps identify just those. It’s particularly useful in environments with many devices to easily select the ones you can connect to immediately.

Explanation:

  • --list-available: This argument filters the listed devices to only show those that are both paired and currently reachable. This state implies an already established trust relationship with your PC.

Example Output:

- Device 1: myPhone (reachable)
  id: 16b9e28f5d6ba2bd

Use case 3: Request pairing with a specific device

Code:

kdeconnect-cli --pair --device device_id

Motivation:

Pairing is the process of establishing a trusted connection between your devices. This use case is fundamental for enabling any subsequent actions such as file transfer, device control, or notifications. It ensures that both ends of the connection can securely interact with each other.

Explanation:

  • --pair: Initiates a pairing request with a specified device.
  • --device device_id: Specifies the unique ID of the device you want to pair with. The device ID can be found using the --list-devices command.

Example Output:

Pairing request sent to device 16b9e28f5d6ba2bd

Use case 4: Ring a device, specifying its name

Code:

kdeconnect-cli --ring --name "device_name"

Motivation:

This use case is particularly practical when you’ve misplaced your phone within a close vicinity. By making your phone ring through the command line, you can locate it without needing any other visual or tactile cues.

Explanation:

  • --ring: Triggers the ring function on the selected device to emit a sound.
  • --name "device_name": Specifies the name of the device you want to ring. The device name can be found using the --list-devices command.

Example Output:

Ringing device: myPhone

Use case 5: Share an URL or file with a paired device

Code:

kdeconnect-cli --share url|path/to/file --device device_id

Motivation:

Sharing files or URLs seamlessly between your computer and mobile device enhances productivity and convenience. This command allows you to transfer essential information quickly without the need for emails or third-party storage services.

Explanation:

  • --share url|path/to/file: Begins the process of sharing either a URL or a file from your PC.
  • --device device_id: Identifies the specific paired device that will receive the file or URL.

Example Output:

Shared file /path/to/file with device 16b9e28f5d6ba2bd

Use case 6: Send an SMS with an optional attachment to a specific number

Code:

kdeconnect-cli --name "device_name" --send-sms "message" --destination phone_number --attachment path/to/file

Motivation:

Sending SMS messages directly from your computer is a handy feature for those who work extensively on their computers. By using this command, you can push textual communication seamlessly, potentially with attachments, without reaching for your phone.

Explanation:

  • --name "device_name": Indicates the device through which the SMS will be sent.
  • --send-sms "message": Contains the actual SMS message to be sent.
  • --destination phone_number: Specifies the recipient’s phone number.
  • --attachment path/to/file: An optional parameter allowing you to attach a file along with the SMS.

Example Output:

SMS sent to 1234567890: "Hello there!"

Use case 7: Unlock a specific device

Code:

kdeconnect-cli --name "device_name" --unlock

Motivation:

Unlocking a device remotely is useful for those who want to access their device quickly or who frequently leave their devices locked by default for security purposes. This command enhances efficiency by skipping manually entering a passcode.

Explanation:

  • --name "device_name": Identifies which paired device you wish to unlock.

Example Output:

Device myPhone unlocked successfully.

Use case 8: Simulate a key press on a specific device

Code:

kdeconnect-cli --name "device_name" --send-keys key

Motivation:

Simulating key presses on a device can serve various functions. Perhaps you’re testing key bindings on your computer, or you need to control the other device for input without being physically present. This command offers a flexible approach to remote controlling aspects of your paired device.

Explanation:

  • --name "device_name": Specifies the device on which to simulate the key press.
  • --send-keys key: Executes the simulation of pressing a defined key on the paired device.

Example Output:

Key 'play-pause' sent to myPhone

Conclusion:

Through kdeconnect-cli, a multitude of interactions between your computer and mobile device are available at your fingertips. From pairing devices to unlocking them and sending or receiving communications, KDE Connect enhances device synergy with simple and efficient command line operations.

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