In a move set to enhance user convenience, WhatsApp is reportedly in the development phase of a new file-sharing feature, allowing users to share files with people nearby.
The feature draws parallels to Android’s Quick Share and Apple’s AirDrop, streamlining the process of direct file transfer in close proximity.
Currently labeled as the “People Nearby” option, the feature is still under development and requires users to shake their devices to view share requests within the designated section. The mechanism is designed for swift and direct transfers, making it ideal for situations where speed is crucial.
According to WABetaInfo, the upcoming file-sharing capability will incorporate end-to-end encryption to ensure the security of transferred files, with user phone numbers remaining hidden from non-contacts. The feature aims to maintain a balance between user convenience and data security.
While an official release date is yet to be announced, leaked screenshots suggest that both the sender and recipient must access the “People Nearby” section to initiate file transfers, ensuring a secure sharing process within close proximity.
WhatsApp’s commitment to security is evident in its recent efforts, such as the introduction of a feature allowing users to share files up to 2GB in size. However, it remains unknown whether the nearby sharing system will impose any limitations on file sizes.
Comparatively, other platforms like Samsung’s Quick Share and Android’s Quick Share have specific file size limits, while Apple’s AirDrop boasts an unrestricted approach.
WhatsApp, owned by Meta, has been actively bolstering user security, introducing features to hide IP addresses during calls and implementing a “secret code” function for conversation protection. The upcoming Nearby File-Sharing feature aligns with WhatsApp’s strategy to provide a seamless and secure communication experience.
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As the world’s most widely used chat app with over 2 billion users, WhatsApp’s potential AirDrop equivalent could bridge the gap between iPhone and Android users, offering a cross-platform file-sharing solution. The feature is currently enabled in the beta version of WhatsApp for Android, indicating a potential multi-platform rollout in the future. If implemented successfully, the new feature could make file transfers even more streamlined and user-friendly on WhatsApp, fostering increased convenience for users across different devices and operating systems.