WhatsApp is expanding its offline file-sharing capabilities, similar to Apple’s AirDrop. While initially tested on Android,this feature, called “Nearby Share,” is now being developed for iPhone users as well.
WhatsApp’s latest iOS beta version, available on TestFlight, includes this new functionality. However, due to iOS restrictions, it operates slightly differently than the Android version. While Android users can automatically detect nearby devices, iPhone users will need to scan a QR code to initiate file sharing.
One exciting aspect of “Nearby Share” is its cross-platform compatibility, allowing seamless file transfers between iOS and Android devices.
Although discovered in the beta version, the feature remains under internal testing with no official release date announced.
WhatsApp continues to innovate with new features, including providing more context for unknown group chats, enabling HD media sharing by default, and testing a button for exploring channels.
While the wait for “Nearby Share” continues, WhatsApp remains free to download from the App Store.
