Screenshot by Ed Rhee/CNET

AirDroid is a great utility for accessing your Android device remotely and without cables. It allows you to wirelessly transfer files, update contacts, manage ringtones and more. Nicole Cozma previously went over using AirDroid, but that version was limited to just Wi-Fi networks.

Version 2 of AirDroid now works over the Internet as well as Wi-Fi networks. It also adds some new features, like remote camera control and a phone locator. Since it's not available for download from the Google Play store yet, we'll show you how to get it and sign up for the beta.

Download and install AirDroid 2 beta

Step 1: Since you'll be downloading and installing AirDroid from a source other than the Google Play store, you need to allow the installation of apps from unknown sources. Go to Settings > Security, then check the box next to "unknown sources." After you're done installing AirDroid 2 beta, you can go back and uncheck it.

Screenshot by Ed Rhee/CNET

Step 2: Launch the Web browser on your Android device and go to http://airdroid.com/invite/airdroid_v2.apk. This will download the APK file to your device. If you get a warning or alert from your browser, make sure to allow the file to download.

Screenshot by Ed Rhee/CNET

Step 3: Install AirDroid 2 beta by selecting it from the notification bar or go to the Downloads app and tap on the airdroid_v2.apk file.

Screenshot by Ed Rhee/CNET

Register for AirDroid 2 beta and log in

Step 1: Launch AirDroid 2 beta, then tap on the "Sign in or Register" button. If you skipped by this screen by accident, you can tap on the user icon in the upper right-hand corner to bring up the login/registration screen.

Screenshot by Ed Rhee/CNET

Step 2: Enter your e-mail address and a password to register or sign in using your Google, Facebook, or Twitter account.

Step 3: Launch AirDroid and enter the Web address from the app to your computer's Web browser. When you launch AirDroid from now on, you'll automatically be provided a Web address. Use your registration info to log in to http://v2.airdroid.com. When you're on a Wi-Fi network, you can choose to use the local IP address instead, but it puts you into "lite mode."

Screenshot by Ed Rhee/CNET

AirDroid 2 is a very useful app and will no doubt come in handy numerous times. However, keep in mind that it is still in beta, so you may see some forced closes and or other odd behavior. Also, be sure to click on the Feedback icon on the AirDroid desktop to let the developers know what you think of the app.