Sharing files between nearby phones is now easier thanks to WhatsApp., which is developing a revolutionary feature to facilitate this process. This future tool will automatically identify nearby devices, optimizing the experience of sending photos, videos, documents, and any other files, without having to start a conversation or relying on the cloud.
The WhatsApp revolution: sharing files between nearby devices without opening a chat
WhatsApp is rolling out a feature that will allow users to share all types of files with nearby devices, directly and without having to start a chat. This option represents a key evolution in the messaging app, aligning with trends observed in tools such as Samsung Quick Share and other quick exchange platforms.
The process will be much faster, safer and more private.Users will be able to find people nearby through automatic tracking using Bluetooth connectivity and, in some cases, Wi-Fi. Privacy is guaranteed: Your files will be end-to-end encrypted, and your phone number won't be visible to others, as you can choose which name to display on WhatsApp Radar.
How does the "People Nearby" feature work on WhatsApp?
The feature, which is known as "ThunderStorm" or "People Nearby" according to leaks, is activated from the settings menu. Once enabled, WhatsApp requests permission to access the device's location, Bluetooth, and media library, ensuring the discovery of nearby devices. For more details, see How to share files from Android to iPhone without Internet o open CBR files on Android.
- Both users must activate the function from WhatsApp to be visible and participate in the exchange, ensuring complete control and privacy.
- The sending user selects the file and the recipient device from an automatically generated list. The radar displays, via animation, all available devices within range.
- For added security, both devices may need to be paired before starting the transfer. confirm the exchange by entering a PIN code single or manual acceptance of the request, including shaking the receiving device to validate that it is its owner who accepts the shipment.
Advantages and differences with other options: AirDrop, Quick Share and Telegram
The main difference from other methods is that WhatsApp will work on any phone with the app installed, regardless of the operating system (Android or iOS). This improves on Quick Share or AirDrop, which are limited to their own ecosystems. Plus, unlike WhatsApp's current method, you don't need to add the recipient as a contact or open a chat to transfer files. You can learn more about other ways to quickly share files at .
Telegram has a similar feature ("Nearby Users"), but WhatsApp will integrate end-to-end encrypted sharing and avoid revealing your phone number. It also offers the ability to send large documents locally and directly, without relying on any server or your mobile data plan, making it perfect for situations where the internet connection is weak or nonexistent.
Privacy and security in sharing between nearby mobile phones
All transfers use end-to-end encryption, WhatsApp's identity, which protects your files from third parties or interceptions. Your phone number remains hidden: only your personalized username is visible to other users in the "People Nearby" feature. The exchange is voluntary and only happens if both devices accept the transfer request, and it can be canceled at any time. Additionally, the app allows you to revoke visibility permissions at any time from the settings. For added security, you can check in how to empty trash on android how to maintain your privacy when sharing files.
This feature is especially useful if you need to share files with people not added to your address book or when the internet connection is unstable, such as during events, meetings, or traveling. Additionally, files sent can have a limit (for example, 2 GB), which is sufficient for most commonly used images, videos, and documents.
Feature availability, configuration, and requirements
Currently, the feature is in development and beta testing phaseIt's expected to be available soon on both Android and iOS, making it easy to share between devices on different platforms. To use it, you'll need:
- Have WhatsApp updated to the latest version and activate Bluetooth and, in some cases, Wi-Fi.
- Grant location, Bluetooth, and file access permissions to detect and connect to nearby devices.
- Set your username so others can identify you on the radar without displaying your phone number.
- Manually accept, by confirming or entering a PIN, each transfer that arrives on your device.
The procedure is simple: You open the feature, select the file and device, and then the recipient accepts or enters the PIN to begin the transfer. Speed ​​will depend on the file size and connection type (Bluetooth or local Wi-Fi), but under optimal conditions, transfers can be very fast, even for several hundred megabytes.
WhatsApp continues to evolve into a "super app" capable of offering much more than messaging, integrating services previously reserved for system tools or external apps. The file sharing feature between nearby phones improves the app's productivity and usability, placing WhatsApp at the forefront of innovations in mobile communication and promising to be one of the most practical features for users of all types, from home to professional environments.