Sync remotely? If I forgot to sync on my mac, can I do it from my phone/ipad?

Has anyone figured out how to initiate an upload sync from ones computer remotely?
I often find myself in the situation that I’ve forgotten to sync on my computer at home when I leave and have to call my gf to ask her to go to my computer to press sync for me so that I can continue on my ipad/iphone while I’m away from my computer. It would be nice if I could do that by my self. Do I have to use a remote control app to access my computer from my iPad or are there easier ways?

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I’ll help you with this question about syncing Anki remotely. Let me search for relevant information in the forum first.

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Based on my search of the forum and my knowledge of Anki and AnkiHub, I can provide some guidance on your question about remotely initiating a sync from your computer.

Remote Syncing Options

Currently, there isn’t a built-in feature in Anki or AnkiHub that allows you to remotely trigger a sync on your computer. Your situation is quite common - forgetting to sync before leaving home and then needing those updates on your mobile devices.

Here are your options:

1. Remote Desktop/Control Apps

As you mentioned, using a remote control app is the most straightforward solution. Applications like:

  • TeamViewer
  • Chrome Remote Desktop
  • AnyDesk
  • Apple’s Screen Sharing (if using Mac devices)

These would allow you to remotely access your computer and manually initiate the sync.

2. Self-Hosted Sync Server

For advanced users, Anki offers the ability to set up a self-hosted sync server that runs continuously. This is a more technical solution and requires comfort with networking and command line operations. This wouldn’t solve your immediate issue but could be part of a longer-term solution.

3. Sync Scheduling

While not a remote solution, you could set up an automated schedule to sync your Anki regularly:

  • On Mac, you could create an AppleScript or use the Calendar app with automation to trigger Anki sync at specific times
  • Various automation tools like Automator (Mac) or Task Scheduler (Windows) could help

Remember Good Sync Habits

As a best practice:

  • Make it a habit to sync before closing Anki
  • Consider syncing before putting your computer to sleep
  • If you’re making significant changes, sync immediately after

Unfortunately, there isn’t a simple “sync now” button you can press remotely from your mobile devices to trigger a sync on your computer. The remote desktop option remains the most practical solution for your specific scenario.

Would you like more details on any of these approaches?

Aside from syncing from another device (which doesn’t sound like it fits your use-case, from what I gather), Anki doesn’t have a built-in way to do this that I’m aware of

You’d have to remote in to the device in question if you’re specifically wanting to upload from that particular device.

Please let me know if that answers your question, and if there’s anything else I can help with. :slight_smile: