Send URLs Between Mac & iOS Devices - Problem Solved
Streamlining URL Sharing Between Apple Devices
An article detailing five beneficial Safari extensions was recently published. Following this, a particularly useful extension was discovered, addressing a common need experienced since the adoption of both the iPhone and iPad.
Frequently, webpages are downloaded on an iPad with the intention of viewing them on a Mac computer, and the reverse scenario is equally common. Previously, transferring a URL from an iOS device necessitated either emailing it to oneself or saving it to a service like Instapaper for later access.
Introducing SendTab: A Simplified Solution
The SendTab extension provides a straightforward solution to this issue. It facilitates the transmission of a selected webpage to one or more computers connected to the same network.
Upon arrival at the destination computer, the webpage automatically opens within the networked browser, completing the transfer in a matter of seconds.
Compatibility and Limitations
Currently, SendTab’s functionality is somewhat limited in its directionality. While URLs can be sent from iOS devices, sending to them is not supported.
The extension exhibits full two-way functionality when used with Chrome. However, a peculiar restriction exists when utilizing Firefox; URLs can only be sent to Safari, not from it.
Therefore, optimal performance is achieved when the user primarily employs either Safari or Chrome as their web browser.
SendTab Configuration
Initial setup of the SendTab network presented some challenges for me, and I observed similar difficulties reported by other users. The key to resolving these issues lies in understanding the post-installation process. Following the download and installation of the SendTab extension, a Network account must be created.
The registration form requests a "Network Name," which can be misleading. This does not refer to a name existing on your system; rather, it functions as a login identifier. You are free to choose any name you prefer, provided it is memorable, and then establish a secure password.
Account Linking and Device Recognition
Once logged into your newly created account, repeat the login process on any additional computers and/or iOS devices you intend to use with the network.
Upon linking to your network account, your computers—though not your iOS devices—should appear in the recognized device list. Without this recognition, the URLs sent through SendTab will not be successfully delivered.
Essentially, URLs are initially transmitted to your account and subsequently forwarded to the computers registered on your network.
- Important Note: iOS devices function differently in this process.
This ensures that only designated devices receive the shared URLs, maintaining network security and control.
Utilizing iOS Bookmarklets
To facilitate the transfer of URLs from your iPhone or iPad, a bookmarklet must be added to the Safari browser on your iOS device. While guidance for setting up this bookmarklet is available, the process can sometimes present challenges. The following steps detail the installation procedure for your iOS device:
- Begin by navigating to the SendTab page within Safari on your iOS device. Then, select the SendTab link located on the left-hand side, positioned just above the provided instructions.
- The SendTab bookmark should be saved within your Bookmarks.
- Access the Bookmarks page and tap the Edit option. Subsequently, tap the SendTab bookmark itself to modify its current URL.
- The entire existing SendTab URL should be selected and replaced with the appropriate bookmarklet and javascript code.
- Confirm your changes by clicking the Done button and exiting the Bookmarks view.
- Retrieve the javascript code from step 2 of the instructions on the SendTab website.
- On your iOS device, tap the Export button and choose the "Add Bookmark" option. (Note: the website instructions may refer to a "+" button, which is applicable to older iOS versions.)
With the bookmarklet installed, you are now able to transmit URLs from your iOS device to your specified computer(s) on your network. A SendTab window will appear once the bookmarklet is activated on your device. You might need to scroll to the top of the webpage to locate and tap the SendTab window.
SendTab effectively performs its intended function, although the addition of further features would be beneficial. Webpages sent via SendTab will automatically open on the receiving computer. If the remote computer is in sleep mode, a slight delay may occur before the webpage loads upon waking the device. A Growl notification to indicate successful URL transmission and receipt would be a valuable enhancement.
These are relatively minor considerations regarding SendTab, a utility that ideally should be integrated directly into Safari, particularly given the common practice of Mac users working across multiple computers.
Image credit: Shutterstock.com
