WhatsApp will add a new sharing function allowing you to exchange files with other nearby users using Bluetooth. And the method for initializing the transfer is original to say the least!
To undercut its competitors, Meta regularly updates its WhatsApp messaging application by integrating functions. After integrating new settings for audio and video, the possibility of changing the color of the interface or even the sharing of high definition images, the platform is working on a completely new file sending system. In fact, the specialized site WABetaInfo discovered in a recent beta (2.24.2.20) – an unfinished test version – that WhatsApp was testing its own version of Nearby Sharing. According to the observations of these experts, you will soon be able to choose to send your content via Bluetooth with people nearby.
Sharing WhatsApp: a jerk transfer!
Obviously, this new feature should make it easier to share files with your friends, especially in areas where the network is too weak to send content. You will be able to send all types of files to your loved ones, such as photos, videos, audio and even documents, without an Internet connection. However, shared files must not exceed the maximum size of 2 GB. To use this function, you must open and activate the People Nearby function in order to make yourself visible on other users’ smartphones. The funniest thing is that the file transfer then takes place… shaking the smartphones! Both parties will also need to stay in the app until the transfer is completely complete.
As with all WhatsApp discussions, the messaging application has focused on the security of its users. Transfers will be end-to-end encrypted and the feature will only display the usernames of the sender and recipient. In other words, your phone number will not be revealed to people nearby who are not part of your contact list.
If this function is supposed to make file sharing between users more fluid, it could also sow confusion. And for good reason: Google and Samsung recently revealed the implementation of Quick Share. As a reminder, this new feature, which was announced at CES 2024, is the new name of Nearby Share. The latter notably allows owners of an Android smartphone to share files using the Bluetooth or Wi-Fi protocol. From February 2024, the date of its release, Quick Share will offer the possibility of sharing content more quickly and More reliable. WhatsApp will therefore face tough competition, mainly made up of Quick Share, Android and AirDrop, on iOS and macOS devices.