SyncKage – Secure Real-Time Google Drive Sync Android App

Google Drive for Desktop enables seamless folder synchronization, but its Android counterpart lacks automatic sync.
SyncKage bridges this gap by enabling real-time, two-way synchronization between local storage and Google Drive, just like Google Drive for Desktop.

Features

• Real-Time File Monitoring – Instantly detects changes using FileObserver
• Multi-Folder Sync Support – Synchronizes multiple folders seamlessly
• Two Sync Modes: Hidden (ADB-controlled) & UI Mode
• Optimized Uploads & Downloads – Prevents redundant transfers
• Stealth Mode – No UI, No App Icon, Runs in Background
• Auto-Start on Boot – Ensures continuous operation
• Secure Authentication – Uses Google Drive API with a service account
• Parallel Processing – Uses Coroutines for faster synchronization

Tech Stack

• Kotlin – Core language
• Android Foreground Service – Background execution
• FileObserver API – Monitors file changes
• Google Drive API – Cloud synchronization
• Coroutines – Handles parallel tasks

Setup & Usage

Note: SyncKage requires a Google Drive service account for authentication.
Due to security reasons, the service account JSON key is not included in this repository.

Usage Modes

1. Hidden Mode (Stealth) – Runs as a background service, controllable via ADB.
2. UI Mode – Provides Start/Stop buttons and real-time logs.

Screenshots – UI Mode

   

Limitations

• Service Account Requirement – SyncKage relies on a Google Drive service account for authentication. Users must manually create and configure their own service account, which involves setting up a Google Cloud project and generating credentials.
• Requires ADB for Hidden Mode – The Stealth Mode runs without a UI and requires Android Debug Bridge (ADB) to start, stop, or configure the service, making it suitable only for advanced users.
• Background Execution Constraints – Some Android devices may restrict background services due to battery optimization policies, which might delay synchronization unless the app is granted proper permissions.

Future Scope

• Custom Sync Intervals for Power Efficiency – Instead of constant real-time monitoring, users could set sync intervals (e.g., every 5, 10, or 30 minutes) to optimize battery usage.
• Encryption Before Upload for Enhanced Security – Implementing AES-256 encryption for files before upload to protect sensitive data.
• Selective Sync Options – Allow users to choose specific folders or file types to sync, reducing unnecessary data transfers.
• Sync Logs and Error Reporting – A basic log system to track sync status and errors for easier debugging.