How Do I Receive Files via Bluetooth in Linux Mint?

Linux Mint, like many Linux distributions, doesn't have a built-in graphical user interface (GUI) for Bluetooth file transfer. However, you can use the command line to receive files via Bluetooth. Here's how:

1. Enable Bluetooth and Make Your Device Discoverable

Enable Bluetooth: Open the "Bluetooth" settings in your system tray or search for "Bluetooth" in your applications menu.
Make your device discoverable: Click the "Make discoverable" option in the Bluetooth settings. This will allow other devices to see your Linux Mint computer.

2. Pair Your Devices

Find the device: On your sending device (e.g., your phone), look for your Linux Mint computer in the list of available Bluetooth devices.
Pair the devices: Select your Linux Mint computer and enter the pairing code (if prompted) on both devices.

3. Transfer Files Using the Command Line

Open a terminal: Press Ctrl+Alt+T to open a terminal window.
Use bluetoothctl: This command-line tool allows you to manage Bluetooth connections. Enter the following commands:
```
  sudo bluetoothctl
```
- List paired devices:
```
paired-devices
```
  This will show a list of paired devices. Note the MAC address of the device you want to receive files from.
- Connect to the device:
```
connect <MAC address>
```
  Replace <MAC address> with the actual MAC address of your device.
- Receive files:
```
send-file <MAC address> <file path>
```
  Replace <MAC address> with the device's MAC address and <file path> with the full path to the file you want to receive.
- Exit bluetoothctl:
```
exit
```

Example

Let's say you want to receive a file named "my_document.pdf" from a phone with the MAC address 12:34:56:78:90:AB. You would use the following command:

send-file 12:34:56:78:90:AB /home/your_username/Downloads/my_document.pdf

Tips

File size: The file size you can transfer via Bluetooth depends on your devices and connection. Larger files might take longer.
Troubleshooting: If you encounter issues, try re-pairing your devices, restarting Bluetooth, or checking the file permissions.
Alternative methods: For easier file transfers, consider using tools like bluez-simple-agent or graphical Bluetooth transfer applications.

Conclusion

While Linux Mint doesn't have a built-in GUI for Bluetooth file transfers, you can use the command line to receive files via Bluetooth. By following these steps and understanding the bluetoothctl commands, you can easily transfer files between your devices.

A2oz