WhatsApp is about to make file sharing even easier with a new feature that works much like Apple’s AirDrop. WhatsApp Nearby Share, currently being tested, will let users send photos, videos, and documents to nearby people without needing an internet connection.
What’s new?
According to WABetaInfo, the latest beta version of WhatsApp for iOS, available on TestFlight, includes a feature called “Nearby Share.” This allows users to share files wirelessly using end-to-end encryption, which means your data stays private and secure. You’ll be able to transfer files quickly and easily, just like you would with AirDrop on Apple devices.
![Nearby Share: WhatsApp file sharing just got an AirDrop twist 1 WhatsApp Nearby Share](https://techbriefly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/WA_PEOPLE_NEARBY_FILE_SHARING_QR_CODE_FEATURE_IOS-scaled.jpg)
How does WhatsApp Nearby Share work?
On Android devices, Nearby Share will automatically find nearby devices to share files with. However, for iPhone users, the process will be a bit different due to iOS limitations. iPhone users will need to scan a QR code to start the file sharing. While this adds an extra step, it still ensures a secure and smooth transfer.
A great feature of Nearby Share is that it works between iOS and Android devices. This means you can share files with people even if they have a different type of phone.
What’s next?
Right now, WhatsApp Nearby Share is only available for internal testing, so it’s not yet available to everyone. There’s no set date for when it will be released to the public, but it’s a promising step towards making file sharing easier and more versatile.
In short, WhatsApp’s Nearby Share will make sharing files simpler and more secure, no matter what type of phone you use or the people you’re sharing with. Stay tuned for updates on when this feature will become available to all users.