WhatsApp is testing a new P2P file-sharing feature similar to AirDrop, Quick Share, or Nearby Share. The feature lets users share photos, videos, or files with other WhatsApp users without needing an active internet connection.
Also read: Snapdrop: Cross-Platform File Transfer Service
WABetaInfo spotted the feature and confirmed that the feature has been added in the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.9.22. Now the app has a People Nearby section where you can find people who are connected to your local network. Then you can share files with them.
The feature aims to provide users with a more convenient way of sharing files, documents, photos, videos, and more with their friends.
Users will have full control of their privacy. They can set who can see them in nearby section. The file-sharing should also be end-to-end encrypted like WhatsApp conversions.
The feature will surely be really helpful for WhatsApp users. Since the feature doesn’t rely on Internet connectivity, it will be faster and more reliable. Generally, WhatsApp compresses media files if you share them in conversations. This feature should transfer uncompressed versions of files.
The P2P file-sharing feature is still in development, so we cannot say when it will come to stable version. Interested users can install WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.9.22 to see how this feature works.
