QuickShare, Google’s fast file sharing solution, is preparing to welcome a new feature: QR codes. This will significantly simplify the connection between devices, making it unnecessary to rely on Wi-Fi networks or Bluetooth proximity.
A few weeks ago, Google and Samsung announced the merger of their file sharing services: Nearby Share and Quick Share. Now grouped under a single banner, the two giants intend to join forces to stand up to Apple and its AirDrop service. Indeed, Quick Share will soon offer users a new way to send files to each other with ease.
Quick Share: file sharing will become even simpler thanks to QR codes
It is Assemble Debugcontributor at Android Authority, which discovered this feature in testing in the latest beta version of Google Play Services (v24.20.13). In addition to proximity detection by Bluetooth, Quick Share could offer a QR code that the recipient would only have to scan to establish the connection and start the transfer.
The integration of QR codes in Quick Share aims to streamline the configuration process for users. This method should prove especially useful in situations where the Wi-Fi connection is unstable or unavailable.
Here, the main interest of the QR code will therefore lie in accelerating the connection between devices. Detection by Quick Share may take several seconds, especially since you may sometimes have to take a detour through the settings to modify the confidentiality options. The QR code will thus eliminate the need to constantly navigate through these parameters.
A feature that will first be exclusive to Android
To generate a QR code, simply select the files to share, activate Quick Share from the system sharing menu, then click on the “Share with a QR code” button in the Quick Share options. Bluetooth and location permissions will first be required for Quick Share to function, but once granted, a unique QR code will be created. The recipient will then only have to scan the code in question to initiate the connection and receive the files.
It is important to note, however, that scanning a Quick Share QR code with an iPhone will not transfer files wirelessly with an Android device. In this case, the user will be redirected to a Quick Share support page. Finally, please note that this new functionality is not yet active in the application; Google is currently testing it so it is possible that it will be rolled out at a later date.
Source : AlternativeTo
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