WhatsApp working on a new AirDrop-like file sharing feature for its users

WhatsApp

Popular instant messaging platform WhatsApp is constantly improving the app’s user experience by bringing new features frequently. A couple of months ago it was reported that WhatsApp has been working on a feature to let users share files with others without an internet connection, much like Apple’s AirDrop. While this feature was then being tested for Android OS, it seems that it is in development for iPhone users as well.

According to a new report by WABetaInfo, the latest WhatsApp Beta for iOS version iOS includes a new feature to let people quickly share files with nearby users without internet connectivity. With this feature, users can share photos, videos, and documents with people nearby wirelessly using an end-to-end encrypted connection.

However, the Android version of the new file sharing feature has not rolled out yet and WhatsApp is currently testing it with limited beat users on both platforms. The report from WABetaInfo has also added a screenshot, where this file sharing feature is named ‘Nearby Share.’

To use this feature, the sender shall generate a QR code on WhatsApp. It must be scanned by the receiver after which both devices will be paired. Post this process, both the users can exchange files between themselves. However, this feature on the Android app requires users to search for nearby devices to accept a file-sharing request.

Currently, there is no official word on the stable release date of this feature, but it is reportedly still in early development and may take some time before we see it on the stable app of both platforms.

Also read: WhatsApp will soon let users connect with others without a phone number, here's how