Meta-owned WhatsApp is working to introduce a file-sharing system similar to Android's Nearby Share and Apple's AirDrop. This feature is said to let WhatsApp users to exchange files seamlessly and WhatsApp's version of 'Nearby Share' will let users send and recieve end-to-end encrypted files, according to Wabetainfo.
As per Wabetainfo, the upcoming file-sharing feature on WhatsApp will resemble Android's Nearby Share feature and Apple's AirDrop feature. However, the feature is in the development stage and not yet available for beta testing. The discovery was made in the WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.24.2.20 and the screenshots provided by the WhatsApp beta testing site give a glimpse of its potential appearance upon release.
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The upcoming file-sharing feature is accessible for users on WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.24.2.17, necessitating the opening of a new section for sending and receiving files.
"As you can see in this screenshot, beta testers will be able to explore a new feature to easily share files with people nearby in the future. This screenshot reveals that both users will need to open this section to send and receive files, ensuring secure sharing within close proximity. It appears that it will be needed to shake the device to generate a share request, maintaining a controlled approach to file exchanges," Wabetainfo wrote on its page.
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"It’s important to note that sharing is end-to-end encrypted. This means that sharing files remain secure even outside of a WhatsApp chat and in an unknown network environment," it added.
Similar to Quick Share, WhatsApp's solution might make use of cellular data or Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Bluetooth LE and WebRTC for both online and offline file transfers. However, certainty is lacking at the moment due to the absence of concrete details about the under-development feature.
A rceent notable inclusion to WhatsApp Channels is the capability to send voice updates on channels, mirroring the functionality of voice messages. Recognising voice as a convenient and personal communication method for many, introducing voice updates to WhatsApp Channels enables creators to establish a more intimate connection with their audience.