Cross-device
This guide walks you through completing your first cross-device clipboard loop: copy a test string on device A -> see it arrive in clipboard history on device B -> paste it on device B exactly.
Before starting this test, make sure both devices have successfully completed Installation and Copy & Paste local verifications.
Before You Start
- Octoclip is installed on both devices, and each can load its local clipboard history.
- You have decided to use Nearby Sync or Cloud Sync. If you are not sure, refer to the comparison table below:
| Network Environment | Recommended Sync Method | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Both devices are on the same local network (e.g., home or office Wi-Fi) | Nearby Sync | Enter "Nearby Devices" on both sides and pair them |
| Devices are on different networks (e.g., cellular data or separate locations) | Cloud Sync | Configure the same WebDAV or S3 service on both sides |
| Unsure of your network conditions | Read Sync Overview first | - |
Both devices must be configured to use the same sync method. If one device is configured for Nearby Sync and the other is configured for Cloud Sync, clipboard sync will not work.
Steps
Confirm that sync switches are enabled on both devices and they are configured to use the same method (paired or connected to the same WebDAV/S3 bucket).
Copy the unique test string in the block below:
octoclip-first-cross-device-001Success sign: Wait a few seconds, then open the clipboard history on device B (pull down to refresh on iOS). Verify that the test string octoclip-first-cross-device-001 is recorded as the top clip card.
Paste the clip into any input field (like a text editor or chat window) on device B, and confirm that the pasted string matches device A exactly.
Once successful, you can continue exploring Recording Expectations or enable Clipboard Background Monitoring.
If the Test Fails, Check
Specific Troubleshooting Pages
If your sync issue persists, click one of the cards below for targeted debugging:
Follow this guide if devices cannot see each other on the local network.
Debug WebDAV/S3 configuration credentials, network blocks, or clock skew.
Still Not Solved
If you still cannot get clipboard sync working, please provide the following details when asking for help in the community:
- OS & Versions: (e.g., Device A: macOS 14.1, Device B: Android 13)
- Sync Method: (Nearby Sync / Cloud Sync)
- Network Setup: (e.g., same home Wi-Fi / corporate network / VPN enabled / mobile hotspot)
- Failed Direction: (A to B fails / B to A fails / both directions fail)