AirDrop is the gold standard for sharing files or media between your own devices or Apple users on your local network, Snapdrop filled the void between Apple and Windows / Android devices but its become a little flakey recently which lead me to use Pairdrop.

Pairdrop between non apple to apple of devices it does a lot of stuff right but just like Snapdrop its relying on the browser to do the heavy lifting. But then there is LocalSend.

On a quest to bring my now Ubuntu powered MacBook Pro, back in to the ecosystem somewhat I discovered LocalSend its an opensource (which you know I love) application that does the same job as AirDrop on an Apple device.

Its available on

• MacOS

• Windows

• Linux

• iOS

• Android

I can be installed via Homebrew, local DMG binaries or via the App Store on Mac. Every base is covered for you.. Linux you have the same choice of binaries options, a snap installer or via FlatHub. The user interface is simple clean and consistent across operating systems, allowing you to support new users and adopters of this program.

Items you want to send are loaded in to App, and when the nearby device comes available you select it and it sends. I find the text function great for sending code or links between devices on different operating systems. The transfers are snappy due to the nature of app to app communication with both acting like server to send and receive, staying away from the bottleneck of modern browsers.

You can build a list of favourites, and give them a more recognisable name for easy identification. There’s also numerous ways of sending the either single send, multiple recipients or via link.

If you like to tweak settings, the settings window has you covered - allowing you to choose a theme, changing the default device name, display language, saving actions on received files, its pretty much covers all you need.

Great app, in constant use at home and work.

Five years ago, The Apple Geek was born out of a simple idea: to share the knowledge I’d acquired over 20+ years of using Apple products. At that time, I was tinkering with old Macs, exploring Linux alternatives, and discovering ways to extend the life of hardware that most people would have discarded.

The first posts were raw, hands-on tutorials sometimes a little rough around the edges but they reflected a genuine love for technology. Early readers were few, but passionate. The joy of seeing someone successfully breathe new life into their old Mac or fix a stubborn software issue made every late-night post worth it.

Over time, The Apple Geek grew from these humble beginnings. We started to explore deeper topics: macOS tweaks, Linux installations, open-source software, and practical guides for tech enthusiasts of all levels. Thank you for being part of a journey that started with a single idea: “Somewhere to document everything I’ve learnt or hacked about with to make work.”

In the past five years, it’s not all been about jotting down what I’ve remembered I’ve ventured down some deep rabbit holes, fully learning more about aspects of the Apple ecosystem I’d previously only scratched the surface of. Each experiment, fix, and project has been a step forward in understanding how Apple technology, Linux, and open-source tools can coexist and complement one another.

Here’s to the next five years of repairs, hacks, open-source discoveries, and geeky adventures. Together, we’ll keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible one Mac, one Linux install, and one repair guide at a time

Mactracker: The Ultimate Apple Product Database

Apple products have a rich history of innovation, and for enthusiasts, collectors, and IT professionals, keeping track of all the models, specifications, and changes can be overwhelming. Fortunately, Mactracker provides a comprehensive solution. Available for macOS and iOS, Mactracker is a free application that serves as an extensive database of every Apple product ever released. Whether you’re looking for details on the latest MacBook or a vintage Macintosh from the 1980s, Mactracker has you covered.

What is Mactracker?

Mactracker is an application developed by Ian Page that provides an in-depth look at Apple’s entire product history. It includes specifications, release dates, operating system support, benchmark data, and even original pricing. It covers everything from Macs, iPhones, iPads, and Apple Watches to peripherals like keyboards, mice, and software.

For Apple enthusiasts, Mactracker is an essential resource to track the evolution of Apple’s technology. For IT professionals, it’s a valuable tool for managing hardware lifecycles, understanding compatibility, and determining repair eligibility.

Features of Mactracker

Extensive Database

Mactracker includes detailed technical specifications for every Apple product. This includes processor types, RAM, storage, display specifications, and much more. Each product listing also includes a history of operating system support, showing which macOS or iOS versions the device originally shipped with and which updates it can support.

Mac Benchmarks

One of the standout features is the inclusion of benchmark data for Mac computers. This allows users to compare the performance of different models over the years, which is particularly useful when deciding whether to upgrade.

Lifespan & Support Information

Mactracker provides key information on Apple’s support status for devices. It indicates whether a product is still receiving software updates, classified as vintage (no longer sold but still supported), or obsolete (no longer receiving hardware or software support). This is particularly helpful for IT departments managing older Apple hardware.

Software Information

Not only does Mactracker cover hardware, but it also includes details on Apple software releases, including macOS, iOS, and classic Mac OS versions. It provides insights into each operating system’s features, release dates, and compatibility.

Notifications & Tracking

Users can create custom lists of Apple products they own and receive notifications about software updates, warranty coverage, and support changes. This feature is beneficial for Apple users who want to stay informed about their devices.

Why Use Mactracker?

Mactracker is an invaluable tool for anyone with an interest in Apple’s products. Whether you’re an Apple collector researching historical models, a tech enthusiast comparing specs, or an IT professional managing Apple devices, Mactracker simplifies access to detailed product information.

The best part? It’s free and regularly updated to include Apple’s latest releases. With its wealth of information and user-friendly interface, Mactracker remains the ultimate Apple product reference guide.

For more information, visit Mactracker’s official website and download the app for your macOS or iOS device today!