I'm curious if it's possible to make calls and receive SMS using my SIM card on a Linux PC, specifically with Waydroid. I currently use Fedora Kinoite. I've seen devices that let you use a SIM card for internet access, like those small USB flash drive-like devices, but I haven't come across anything that allows for calling or texting. If such a device exists, could it be connected to Waydroid to enable SMS and calling features? My current phone is nearly unusable, and I'm looking for alternatives.
3 Answers
It really depends on how well your phone is functioning. You can use software like KDE Connect to control your phone remotely, but it still relies on your phone being usable. There’s call software out there, but keep in mind that it might give you a different phone number. Typically, most PCs lack the hardware to connect directly to a SIM for calling. You could look for a specific device, but weigh that against the cost of just getting a new phone.
In theory, there's nothing preventing you from doing this. Since Android is essentially a version of Linux, you can use it. However, finding hardware that can effectively interface with your SIM card and mobile network can be tricky; a lot of it isn’t well-supported or has limited functionality.
There’s a significant difference between 3G, 4G, and 5G devices. You can get small USB-sized 3G devices relatively cheaply, which should work for calls and texts as well. For 4G and 5G, expect to need larger and more expensive devices. Some routers have SIM card slots that might help you out.
I mainly want to send texts and make calls. Would a 3G device work for that? Do you know of any specific models or software I would need for Linux?