On Android, you can use Nearby Share to quickly and seamlessly share files with another Android device. On Apple’s devices, there’s AirDrop. Right now, WhatsApp is working on a similar feature.
WABetaInfo reports that WhatsApp is currently testing a new feature that enables the sharing of files with nearby contacts in the latest Android beta version of WhatsApp. This functionality utilises Bluetooth for transferring files.
Users have the capability to share files of up to 2GB in size, presenting a faster and more convenient alternative to conventional methods such as sending files through chat or cloud storage.
According to WABetaInfo, for the transfer to be successful, both users must be in the app’s “Share Files” section and remain there until the transfer is finished.
This approach maintains end-to-end encryption, ensuring the security of file sharing, comparable to WhatsApp’s standard method. Interestingly, users are required to shake their phones to initiate the sharing process.
Privacy is carefully managed, with the file transfer being secure and protected by end-to-end encryption. Throughout the transfer, phone numbers remain concealed and are not visible to individuals not in your contact list.
The WhatsApp file sharing feature could be a significant breakthrough, particularly if it functions seamlessly on both Android and Apple devices.
This capability to bridge the gap between different phone platforms, unlike Nearby Share and AirDrop exclusive to Android and Apple devices, respectively, could indeed make it a game-changer.
This inclusivity has the potential to greatly enhance user convenience, especially for those with friends and family using diverse phone platforms.
