Browse file system of Raspberry Pi from android via bluetooth

Introduction

This article guides you on accessing and browsing the file system of your Raspberry Pi from your Android device using Bluetooth. We will explore the necessary software and tools, setting up the connection, and the limitations involved.

Prerequisites

• Raspberry Pi with Raspbian or other suitable Linux distribution installed.
• Android device with Bluetooth capability.
• A Bluetooth dongle connected to the Raspberry Pi (if not built-in).

Software and Tools

On Raspberry Pi

• Bluetooth tools: The default Raspbian installation comes with Bluetooth support. Ensure it is enabled by running: sudo apt update && sudo apt install bluetooth bluez
• File transfer application: Use a file server application like:
  • Samba: Provides a SMB/CIFS server for Windows-like file sharing. sudo apt install samba
  • SSH Server: Enables secure shell access. sudo apt install openssh-server

On Android

• Bluetooth File Transfer App: Download an app like:
  • File Manager (ES File Explorer): Offers Bluetooth file transfer capabilities.
  • Solid Explorer: Another file manager with Bluetooth file transfer.

Setting Up Bluetooth Connection

Pairing

1. On the Raspberry Pi, ensure Bluetooth is enabled using the command: sudo systemctl enable bluetooth && sudo systemctl start bluetooth
2. Make the Raspberry Pi discoverable: sudo hciconfig hci0 piscan
3. On your Android device, search for available Bluetooth devices and pair with the Raspberry Pi.

File Sharing

1. Samba:
   • Configure the Samba server using the smb.conf file. Add a section like this:

           [SharedFolder]
           path = /path/to/your/shared/folder
           valid users = @users
           read only = no
           

   • Restart the Samba service: sudo systemctl restart smbd
2. SSH Server:
   • Enable the SSH service on the Raspberry Pi: sudo systemctl enable ssh && sudo systemctl start ssh

Accessing Files

Using File Transfer App

• Open your Bluetooth file transfer app on your Android device.
• Select the Raspberry Pi from the list of paired devices.
• Browse the file system of the Raspberry Pi and navigate to the shared folder or files.
• Transfer files between your Android and Raspberry Pi as needed.

Limitations

• Speed: Bluetooth transfer speeds are generally slower compared to other methods like Wi-Fi.
• Range: Bluetooth has a shorter operating range than Wi-Fi.
• File Size: Transferring large files might take longer and could be unreliable.

Comparison

Conclusion

By following the steps outlined above, you can successfully access and manage the file system of your Raspberry Pi from your Android device via Bluetooth. The chosen method, either Samba or SSH, depends on your specific needs and desired level of security. Remember to consider the limitations of Bluetooth file transfer, especially for large files.