Install Zello app on Linux

Note: In general, Windows apps frequently update and may break WINE compatibility. This article is a snapshot of what worked at the time of writing.

Check the Zello WINE database for the latest compatibility information.

Zello allows prompt voice push-to-talk group communications worldwide. Zello provides free access for personal use. The push-to-talk audio is shared simultaneously in a “channel” using internet-connected phones, tablets, computers and Zello WiFi walkie-talkies. For those accessing Zello from a computer, the Zello Windows program works from Linux using WINE. Zello requires an internet connection to work.

To use Zello from Linux:

Download Zello for Windows PC. Install Zello with WINE:

wine ZelloDispatchSetup.exe

This creates a Zello icon to launch the Zello app in Linux.

Optionally, start Zello from the Terminal by making a script “zello.sh” like:

#!/bin/sh

wine "$HOME/.wine/drive_c/Program Files/Zello/Zello.exe"

Alternatives

Zello alternatives for licensed amateur radio operators include Echolink. Echolink works on Android and iPhone / iOS as well as Windows PCs and using WINE for macOS / Linux. Echolink interconnects with hardware radio links worldwide and is a key technology for disaster relief communications for Internet-connected radio links.

Related: Speaker-mic for mobile phone PTT apps