Zaparoo requires Zaparoo Core installed on your target device, plus a frontend app such as Zaparoo App to manage it and create tokens like NFC tags. See the Getting Started guide for more detailed steps on getting up and running.
Zaparoo App
Zaparoo App is the primary supported frontend for Zaparoo. Manage the Zaparoo Core service, take advantage of your phone's NFC features to easily create NFC tags and use your phone as an NFC reader or QR code scanner. All essential app features are available for free.
If you don't want to or can't use your phone, other frontends are available like the built-in web UI, terminal UI, CLI and API interfaces. Zaparoo is an open platform that encourages useful and unique ways to access media!
Zaparoo Core
The Zaparoo Core application runs in the background on your device and coordinates all hardware and software to make Zaparoo work. The service is built for minimal resource usage, so it won't interfere with your media playing.
Device Architectures
If you're not sure what ARM64, x86-64, etc. means, here is a quick rundown of which download you should pick. Be aware that the line for some devices may be blurred, and you will need to check the device or OS documentation.
- x86-64: a.k.a. AMD64 or 64-bit Intel. Covers most modern desktop PCs, large gaming handhelds like the Steam Deck or ROG Ally, Intel Macs.
- x86: a.k.a. i386 or i686. Old desktop PCs. Not widely found anymore but the binary may be compatible with x86-64 devices.
- ARM64: a.k.a. AARCH64 or 64-bit ARM. Most modern emulation handhelds, Raspberry Pi 4/Zero 2 and newer, current Macs.
- ARM: a.k.a. AARCH or 32-bit ARM. Older emulation handhelds, Raspberry Pi 3/Zero and older.
You won't damage anything by trying to run the wrong one, so don't worry about just trying a download out if you're not sure. If it's wrong, it just won't run.
Trademarks shown on this page are property of their respective owners. The Zaparoo project uses logos on this page in good faith and/or within published usage guidelines, to show compatibility with the respective operating system they represent. The Zaparoo project is not affiliated with nor receives endorsement from any of the projects or companies shown above.