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Getting started with FOLD

Install the Windows host and a matching Android client from an official FOLD distribution channel.

Before you start

  • Windows 11 x64 PC for official support. Windows 10 22H2 x64 can try the same build as experimental/best-effort only.
  • Android tablet running Android 8.0 or newer.
  • A data-capable USB cable, or a trusted private local Wi-Fi network.
  • Administrator approval when the installer configures the Virtual Display Driver and input helper.

FOLD creates an extended virtual monitor. It is not a screen mirror. Move an app window onto that monitor to show it on the tablet.

1. Install the Windows host

  1. Download FOLD_setup.exe from the official release page.
  2. Verify its published SHA-256 value before running it. See Verifying downloads.
  3. Run the installer and approve the administrator prompt.
  4. Start FOLD from the Start menu or desktop shortcut.

Windows should expose an additional display under Settings > System > Display. Choose Extend these displays if Windows did not do so automatically.

2. Install the Android client

  1. Install the matching Android app from the official Google Play listing when available, or download FOLD.apk from the same repository release.
  2. For a direct APK, verify its SHA-256 value and signing fingerprint as described in Verifying downloads, then allow installation from that source when Android asks.
  3. Open FOLD on the tablet.

3. Connect over USB (recommended)

  1. Enable Android Developer options and USB debugging.
  2. Connect the tablet with a data-capable USB cable.
  3. Accept the PC fingerprint on Android after verifying it.
  4. In Windows FOLD, select USB (ADB).
  5. If multiple ADB devices are present, choose the intended device from the dropdown. Opening the dropdown refreshes the device list.
  6. Press START on Windows.
  7. Select USB in Android FOLD and tap CONNECT.

The Windows host creates ADB port forwarding only for the selected device. Leave the cable connected during the session.

4. Connect over Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is convenient but does not add FOLD-level encryption or authentication. Use only a private network you control.

  1. Put both devices on the same trusted local network.
  2. Select Wi-Fi in Windows FOLD and copy Your PC IP.
  3. Press START on Windows.
  4. Select Wi-Fi on Android, enter the exact PC IP, and tap CONNECT.
  5. If Windows Firewall asks, allow access on Private networks only.

Never enter a public internet address or port-forward FOLD ports.

Windows controls

Control Effect
START / STOP Starts or ends the host session. Start the host before Android connects.
Limit stream to 30 FPS Lowers frame rate to reduce GPU/power use.
Touch Screen Injection Allows Android touch to control the virtual monitor.
Debug Mode Shows diagnostics; leave off for normal use.
USB device dropdown Selects the exact ADB device used for forwarding and app launch.

Minimizing hides FOLD in the tray. Use the tray menu to show FOLD, disconnect an active session, or exit.

For problems, see Troubleshooting. For network risk, see Security.