Meta-owned WhatsApp is reportedly working on a new feature to bring a file-sharing system to the popular instant messaging platform, similar to Android’s ‘Nearby Share’ and Apple’s ‘AirDrop’ feature.
WABetaInfo, a known WhatsApp tipster publication, discovered the new feature in the latest WhatsApp Beta for Android 2.24.2.20 update, which is available on the Google Play Store.
This WhatsApp version of ‘Nearby Share’ will allow users to send and receive end-to-end encrypted files seamlessly with people nearby.
As one can see in the screenshot above, WhatsApp users will need to open this section to send and receive files, ensuring secure sharing within close proximity. Interestingly, users will be required to shake their device to generate a share request to start sharing while maintaining a controlled approach to file exchanges.
It is essential to note the sharing process is end-to-end encrypted, which means the shared files remain secure, even outside of a WhatsApp chat and in an unfamiliar network environment.
“Implementing a feature in WhatsApp that allows users to share files with people nearby can offer several advantages, enhancing user experience and adding important value to the platform. In particular, users will be able to quickly share files with nearby people and it’s ideal for situations where a fast and direct transfer is required. In addition, the phone number always remains hidden to non-contacts, ensuring privacy and security in every file exchange,” WABetaInfo report states.
Currently, the new file sharing feature with people nearby is under development and will be available in a future update of the app.
Recently, WhatsApp rolled out more features for its one-way broadcasting feature, Channels, such as voice notes and polls, adding up to 15 additional admins, and sharing Channel updates as Status as WhatsApp to make it more engaging for users and channel admins.
