Introduced in 2020, Google’s Nearby Share feature allows files to be shared between different Android devices. Today, the company improves this functionality by integrating Windows into it.
In a blog post on Monday, Google announced a new beta version of the Nearby Share tool designed to let you share photos, videos, documents, and other files between Android devices and Windows PCs.
Available initially in the United States, and for the moment not yet in France, the new Nearby Share application is intended for Windows computers equipped with a 64-bit version of Windows 10 or 11. ARM devices are not supported in charge.
Sharing files between different devices has always been a real challenge, with each company offering its own method. Until now, Google’s Nearby Share only worked with Android smartphones and tablets. Apple uses AirDrop, but this method is only compatible with Macs, iPhones and iPads. A Nearby Sharing option is built into Windows, but it’s primarily designed for sharing files between PCs.
How do I test Nearby Share beta?
To test the new beta version of Nearby Share, download and install the installer file from its website. After launching the program on Windows, sign in with your Google account or use it without an account. The process is faster if you’re signed in, as file transfers are automatically accepted. Confirm your PC name. Make sure both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are turned on.
You can then send a file from Windows to any nearby visible Android device. Conversely, you can receive a file from a device close to everyone, only from your contacts or only from your own devices. Click Done, and you’re ready to go.
Configure Nearby Share. Screenshot by Lance Whitney/ZDNET
To use Nearby Share Beta from Windows, make sure the app is open on the desktop or running in the background. On the Android device, make sure Nearby Share is running and the device is visible.
To send a file from Windows to Android, drag and drop it to the Nearby Share Beta screen or select it in File Explorer. Choose the Android device. Confirm the transfer and your Android device should receive the file, which you can then open.
Use Nearby Share to send a file from Windows. Screenshot by Lance Whitney/ZDNET
To receive a file on your PC, the process must be initiated from the Android device. Open the file you want to send. Tap the Share icon in Android and select Nearby Share.
The name of your Windows PC should appear. Select it and the file is sent to your computer, where it is saved in the Downloads folder.
Use Nearby Share to receive a file in Windows. Screenshot by Lance Whitney/ZDNET
If you’re using the Nearby Share beta, head over to Google’s Android Help page if you run into any issues, have questions, or just want to give us feedback. For now, the app is compatible with Android phones and tablets. But Google has promised to refine the tool and extend its use to other devices in its ecosystem.
Source: “ZDNet.com”