As we accumulate more and more mobile devices such as smart phones, laptops, tablets, and so on, we need a way to keep our data synchronized between all devices.
Types of Data to Synchronize
There are multiple different types of data that need to be synchronized such as:
- Contacts
- Applications
- Pictures
- Music
- Videos
- Calendars
- Bookmarks
- Documents
- Location data
- Social media data
- e-Books
- Passwords
Synchronize to the Cloud
Synchronization to the cloud offers the most hands off approach to keeping data in sync with multiple devices. This approach doesn’t require any cables or local files. Cloud synchronization may already be integrated in your apps, such as Gmail.
If you’re using an Apple iOS device, you can create an Apple ID and sync all your data to iCloud. It also provides for backups. In case you lose your current device or purchase a new device, you can restore from one of the backups that have been synced in iCloud.
For Android device, cloud synchronization can be done through your Google account.
Synchronize to the Desktop
If you prefer not to keep your data in the cloud, you can also perform a sync manually to your desktop.
Software Requirements to Install Mobile Device Synchronization Application on the PC
For this process you need to make sure you have the correct desktop application to perform the data sync. For example, iOS devices would need Apple iTunes software loaded onto the desktop. You also need to make sure you have enough space on your desktop to accommodate your data sync.
For Android, by default everything is stored in the cloud with your Google account. However, there are some third party apps like doubleTwist that can be used to transfer your movies and music from your Android device to your desktop PC.
Synchronize to the automobile
With modern cars, you may be able to sync your mobile device to your automobile via Bluetooth or a wired connection. This allows you to play music from your mobile device via your car speakers. Additionally you can make or receive calls through your automobile. Other synchronization features include displaying maps and text messages on the display of your car.
For iOS devices, automobile synchronization can be done through CarPlay. Android devices could use Android Auto. These services synchronize the contact information, music, and other details from our mobile devices.
Note that these features could be potential security issues if you sync your information to a rental car or shared automobile.
Connection Types to Enable Mobile Synchronization
iOS synchronization can be done via the below connections:
- Apple USB Proprietary 30 pin connector
- Apple USB Proprietary 8 pin lightning connector
- USB-C
- 802.11 Wireless
- Mobile network
Android synchronization can utilize the below connections:
- USB Micro-B
- USB-C
- 802.11 Wireless
- Mobile network
