Google Advances Android-Windows Integration with the release of Nearby Share Beta App

During CES 2022, the world’s most influential technology event, Google revealed its plans to enhance the integration between Android and Windows systems. One key feature they discussed was Nearby Share, which the Tech Giant have now released as a beta app for Windows. This development makes it incredibly simple to transfer files between mobile devices and PCs.

“Nearby Share Beta for Windows is simple to set up.” To try it out, simply download the app from the Android website, ensuring your computer runs on a 64-bit version of Windows 10 or higher and does not use ARM processors.

To use the feature, enable your PC’s WiFi and Bluetooth. You can then select who is allowed to see your device and send you files in order to avoid unwanted spam. In the device visibility settings menu, you can choose from several options: visible to everyone, visible to contacts, visible to your devices only, or not visible at all. If you don’t select the last option, Android devices will be able to share files with your computer, even if the app is running in the background.

Use Nearby Share to share images, videos, documents, and more between Windows computers and Android devices that are close together. You can share files between your own devices or with people around you who also use Nearby Share. When other people send files to you, you’re asked to approve the request. Files are encrypted when you share them.

Transferring files from your PC to an Android phone is as easy as dragging and dropping them into the Nearby Share app, or right-clicking on the files and choosing the Nearby Share option. If you’re logged into the same Google account on both devices, transfers will be automatically accepted, even if the recipient device’s screen is off. Keep in mind, though, that both devices must be within 16 feet of each other.

Google has made Nearby Share available in the US and many other countries, with a few exceptions. While the beta app currently only works with Android phones and tablets, Google plans to broaden its compatibility across their entire ecosystem in the future.