Launch the app and ensure your phone is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as the other device you want to talk to. LanChGo uses local network broadcasts — no internet required.
Use Create to host a secure channel from your Android device, or Join to connect to a channel created on another device (Windows or mobile).
On the device that created the channel (e.g. Windows), click Show PIN to reveal the 6-digit PIN and QR code. On your Android device, scan the QR code or type the PIN manually to join.
After a successful join the lock icon will indicate a secure channel. Messages between devices are encrypted with a shared key derived from the PIN and a salt — only channel members can decrypt them.
Send messages as usual. Try the word ping to test the connection — both devices will play a sound. Messages are fully encrypted and can only be read by channel members.
Tap Disconnect to stop being part of the secure channel. The app will return to public mode — any messages you send then are broadcast in plain text to all devices on the network.
Who can you connect to?
- Windows desktop running LanChGo
- Other Android phones running LanChGo — can create or join equally
Troubleshooting
- Both devices must be on the same subnet (e.g. 192.168.1.x or 10.0.0.x)
- On Android, allow local network and camera permissions for QR scanning
- If the connection fails, try creating a new channel and joining with the new PIN