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Getting Started

Follow these steps to mirror your Android device for the first time.

Step 1 — Enable USB Debugging​

USB Debugging must be turned on before NearMirror can connect to your device. The steps to enable it vary by manufacturer.

See the full guide: Enabling Developer Options & USB Debugging

In short:

  1. Go to Settings → About phone
  2. Tap Build number seven times to unlock Developer Options
  3. Go to Settings → Developer options (or System → Developer options)
  4. Enable USB Debugging

Step 2 — Connect your device​

Plug your Android device into your computer using a USB data cable.

caution

Many USB cables are charge-only and will not work. If your device doesn't appear in NearMirror, try a different cable — ideally the one that came in the box with your device.

When prompted on your device screen, tap Allow to authorise the USB debugging connection. Check Always allow from this computer to avoid being asked again.

Step 3 — Launch NearMirror​

Open the NearMirror app on your computer. Your device should appear automatically in the Devices panel.

Device appearing in NearMirror

If your device does not appear, click the Refresh button (refresh) next to the device count. If it still doesn't appear, see Troubleshooting below.

Step 4 — Start mirroring​

Click the Launch button on your device's card. A mirror window opens showing your device screen, and the NearMirror app minimises automatically so the mirror is front and centre.

In the mirror window you can:

  • Click to tap on the device
  • Scroll to scroll
  • Type on your keyboard to type on the device
  • Use keyboard shortcuts for quick actions like HOME, BACK, and fullscreen

To stop mirroring, close the mirror window or click Stop in the NearMirror app. The NearMirror window will reappear automatically once the session ends.

Troubleshooting​

Device does not appear in the Devices panel​

  1. Check that USB Debugging is enabled — go to Developer options on the device and verify the toggle is on
  2. Unlock your device screen and look for an Allow USB debugging? prompt — tap Allow
  3. Try a different USB cable (data-capable, not charge-only)
  4. Try a different USB port on your computer
  5. Click Refresh (refresh) in NearMirror
  6. On Windows: install the USB driver for your device model from the manufacturer's website

Device shows as "unauthorized"​

On the device, go to Settings → Developer options → Revoke USB debugging authorizations, then unplug, reconnect, and tap Allow on the new prompt.

Mirror window opens but the screen is black​

Your device may have a security policy preventing screen capture. Try disabling any screen lock or switching from a work profile to a personal profile.

Mirror is very laggy or choppy​

  • Try reducing Max Resolution and Max FPS in the Video settings
  • Switch from Wi-Fi to a USB cable for a faster, more stable connection
  • Close other apps on both your computer and your device

Next steps​