Now you have a new way to connect your Windows PC to an Android device to share files: Nearby Sharing, an app that Google released on Wednesday and will be included with upcoming PCs.
As the name suggests, Nearby Sharing allows you to share files between Android devices and PCs. It’s similar to Apple’s AirDrop, the main difference is that Nearby Sharing connects devices from two different companies, not just iPhones and Macs. Google has released beta version of Nearby Share earlier this year.
Nearby Sharing Connects your phone to your PC, but it can also be used to send files and photos to nearby Android phones that you don’t use, as well as nearby PCs. This makes it easy to share a photo at a concert, or to drop a file on a friend’s PC without a problem. You just have to be about 16 feet away to do that, Google says.
Why use Nearby Sharing? Google’s unpopular argument is that it’s easy to do. There are already many ways to view and transfer files and photos from Android phones to PCs, from tried-and-true sneakerware to uploading and downloading from the cloud, to modern methods such as Microsoft’s. Your Phone, it is now called Phone Link. Device manufacturers like Samsung have also released it Their literal versions for Galaxy devices. Google, however, made its mark with Gmail and search, both of which worked more easily and efficiently than other solutions.
How to use Nearby Sharing
Share Nearby with Android devices, especially smartphones and tablets with Android 6 and up. Windows users need to download the software themselves. (You can directly download the Local File Sharing from this link.) You need Windows 10 or 11, and Arm devices are not currently supported.
After you download and install the app, Googe prompts you to sign in to your Google account and view your preferences in Device Appearance. You’ll be able to limit Nearby Sharing to friends, contacts, everyone, or just turn it off.
On your Android phone, you need to turn on Nearby Sharing. Make sure Bluetooth, location, and Nearby Sharing are turned on in your device’s settings. You need to start the Windows app, then make sure Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are connected again.
To start file sharing, you can simply right click and share the file. On the floor You’re looking for local tools, just select the device to share with. You will receive a notification if someone wants to share a file with you, which you must accept. You may also be prompted to turn on file sharing. If you want to accept the file, you can click it Welcome; Otherwise, you can refuse the request.
If you’re having trouble, Google recommends that each device turn airplane mode on, then turn it off. Make sure the tools are close enough.