Unlike iPhone or Blackberry devices which have iTunes and Desktop Manager respectively to sync files between their devices and computers, Android device is without dedicated application to serve that purpose from Google or the phone manufacturer. To some, this is quite a let down because they can’t part away with their favourite musics or pictures of their loved ones for instance.
Worry no more, as these applications can fill up that task nicely. What’s better, some of these applications are compatible with multiple devices and cross-platform, so you can have your devices synced to PC/Mac/Linux using only that particular application. Nice huh?
So here you go..
1. Itunes Agent (Windows only)
Itunes agent is an application that allows non-iphone/ipod devices to be managed via Playlist in iTunes. You need to have iTunes (of course) and .Net Framework 2.0 or later installed for it to work.
In order for iTunes to recognize the device, please make sure you follow the steps to add new device (d0ne only once). Upon connected, you should see your new device under ‘My Device’ and you’re ready to sync your music. [download]
2. DoubleTwist (Windows & Mac)
DoubleTwist is powerful cross platform media management application that support multiple mass storage devices from iPhone, Blackberry, Android, PSP, Digital Camera, Pre and etc. It’s main function is to connect and synchronize musics, videos and pictures between portable devices and computers. Besides that, other main functions include browsing and purchasing Amazon music as well as converting videos to the format that is supported by the device.
DoubleTwist is able to gather music including playlists, videos and pictures stored in your computer and keep the records in so-called library for later use.
If you use Windows, DoubleTwist automatically detects your device (you need to enable mass storage device mode) and shows it under ‘Devices’ section. Only 1 device is recognized at one time. You can start the synchornization right away upon connected or choose what type of media you want to sync.
3. Songbird (Windows, Linux, Mac)
If you’re looking for music/video player that supports almost all platforms, try Songbird. This application is available for Windows, Mac and multiple distribution of Linux.
By default, Songbird won’t be able to detect your device, let alone synchronize the music between the device or computer. But before that, Songbird, being open source application has many add-ons (just like Firefox) that makes this application appealing and interesting to use.
So synchronize is made possible by add-ons called FolderSync. If you already install Songbird, go grab this FolderSync from add-ons section, and once you add it (require Songbird restart), taadaa, your device is there , ready to sync. If you feel lost, read this instruction.
4. Banshee (Linux & Mac)
Exclusive for Mac and Linux users, you have other applications that are able to synchronize the files in your Android and computer in Banshee. Forgive me, but I don’t have any Linux machine to try this out.
5. HTC Sync (Windows)
HTC Sync is a default sync application that comes with the device (you can download it as well). The function is limited, where it can only sync the contact in your smartphone with Outlook or Outlook Express in your computer. With Android, this is pretty much lame, as by default, you can sync the contact and calendar in the device with your Google account on the go.
In case you would like to know more, read this HTC Wiki page.
6. DroidItunes (Windows , Mac)
DroidItunes is actually a DoubleTwist as well, which now supports Droid smart phone. It’s only that it has dedicated domain on it’s own.
