A new feature similar to Apple’s AirDrop is being added to WhatsApp. This feature was first spotted in the Android beta version of WhatsApp in April 2024 and has now been introduced in the iOS beta version under the name “Nearby Share.”
According to a report from WABetaInfo, this feature will allow users to share various files such as photos, videos, and text documents with nearby smartphones without needing an internet connection.
This means that users will be able to share files with friends or loved ones even in areas with poor internet coverage or no internet access at all.
However, this feature will function slightly differently on iPhones compared to Android devices.
On Android, it will work similarly to AirDrop. In contrast, iPhones will require users to scan a QR code to use this feature.
It is not yet clear why WhatsApp has chosen QR codes for iOS devices.
The report also mentioned that this feature will only work when the recipient approves the file sharing request.
Files can only be shared with contacts who are listed in the user’s contact list, and all shared files will be protected with encryption to prevent unauthorized access.
Currently, this feature is being tested in the beta version, so it is unclear when it will be rolled out to all users.