Google’s Upcoming Airdrop-like ‘Nearby Sharing’ Feature Shown In A Video

Avideo posted by XDA developers shows Google’s upcoming file sharing feature working in real life. The AirDrop-style sharing feature is named Nearby Sharing. The video of the yet unannounced feature shows video files and images being transferred between a Google Pixel 4 and Google Pixel 2 XL. The feature has also been spotted working on a OnePlus phone.

The most significant advantage that Google’s Nearby sharing will have is that it will be accessible for all Android devices regardless of manufacturers. Google has not announced any official release date for Nearby Sharing, but as the demo of the service has surfaced, we’re expecting Google to release it soon.

Nearby Sharing uses the location services initially to find out compatible devices in a particular area for the transfer of files, and the handshake between the devices is initiated using Bluetooth. The next step involves sharing data from one device to another using Wi-Fi.

In the video, it can be seen that one file transfer fails which clearly shows that the feature still has some glitches which have to be rectified. However, once the devices are connected, the files were transferred very quickly. The feature is also said to work best when two devices are within a distance of one foot.

Previously Google’s Files app was launched with a similar feature but was unable to grab the attention of users.

Smartphone manufacturers Oppo, Xiaomi, and Vivo also announced their plan last year to create an airdrop-like sharing service. Samsung is also working on the same concept and has named it Quick Share, which may debut with the Samsung Galaxy S20 in February.