Cloud and connected computers
Use the same Zinley account on your phone and computers. Cloud work can continue independently; a local task needs the particular computer, app, file, and permissions it uses.
Choose where the work belongs
| Place | Useful for | What you need |
|---|---|---|
| Cloud | Connected services, email, scheduled work, and other supported online tasks | An account and the relevant connection or plan capability. |
| Your computer | Local files, installed apps, signed-in browsers, and terminal work | The desktop app running on that computer, network access, and the required permissions. |
| Your phone | Chat, live voice, photos, documents, and supported phone tools | The mobile app, network access, and permission for the requested phone feature. |
| Zinley Computer | Work in a separate cloud computer | Availability and access shown in your account; provide any files it needs. |
A cloud computer does not automatically contain your computer's files. Signing in on mobile does not grant access to another computer.
Open the computer list
- Open Settings in the desktop or mobile app.
- Choose Devices under Connections.
- Look under Computers for your registered machines. A Zinley Computer section may also be shown.
- Check the computer's name, access switch, and last-seen or Online status.
The current list intentionally shows computers. Phones, tablets, and browser sessions can be registered to your account without appearing as computer rows. A missing phone here does not mean mobile sign-in failed.
Understand the access switch
The switch on each computer row controls whether work started elsewhere may use that computer. Its accessible label is Allow access to [computer name]. Turning it off shows Access off. A remote request cannot grant itself access or approve an operating-system permission.
You can still use the desktop app locally with remote access off. To accept work from elsewhere again, turn access on yourself in Settings → Devices. If a secure-disconnect message remains, follow Retry until the app confirms that an active screen or control session has ended.
Manage a computer
| Action | Desktop | Mobile | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Work here | Open the row's three-dot menu | Tap the computer row | Selects this computer for work in Chat. |
| View screen | Open the row's three-dot menu | Tap the computer row | Opens the supported screen-viewing flow; availability and permissions still apply. |
| Rename | Choose Rename in the row menu | Tap the row, then Rename | Gives the computer a name you can use in requests. |
| Remove | Choose Remove, then confirm | Tap the row, then Remove, then confirm | Removes that registration. A signed-in installation may register again. |
Use distinct names such as Work MacBook and Studio PC. The current desktop computer cannot be removed from its own list. Sign out on a computer you no longer own; deleting its row is not the same as signing it out.
Know what follows your account
Conversations and supported saved account settings belong to the signed-in account. Your selected account model is managed in Settings → Model. Notifications can go to several configured destinations.
Operating-system permissions, microphone and camera access, notification permission on each phone, and hardware shortcuts remain device-specific. Change them on the device that will perform the task. Read Mobile settings and permissions for the phone controls.
Verify work, not just presence
Online and last-seen information show availability signals. They do not prove a task ran. Read the reply or receipt and inspect the returned file, screenshot, command output, or other evidence.
Continue with Connect a computer or phone, Work across devices, or Zinley's Computer.