WhatsApp will get a new file sharing feature via Bluetooth

As WABetaInfo has just noticed, in the 2.24.2.20 beta version of the application we find a new functionality that allows users to perform the following actions:Send files up to 2 GB in size without accessing the Internet using the Bluetooth protocol.

According to WABetaInfo, the feature works by opening the “Share Files” section of the app and selecting nearby contacts who have enabled the feature. Users will then have to: Shake their phone to start file transfer.

WhatsApp will be able to share files via Bluetooth

This feature is expected to make file sharing easier and faster for WhatsApp users, especially in regions where internet connection is low or data costs are high. The function will also work with: Any type of files such as photos, videos, documents or audio files.

WhatsApp’s Bluetooth file sharing function will only work with WhatsApp users and will require both parties to remain in the application until the transfer is completed. The feature may also have some limitations in terms of compatibility and performance depending on the Bluetooth version and smartphones used.

WABetaInfo provides: For added security, transmissions will be end-to-end encrypted. Additionally, the feature will only show the usernames of the sender and recipient and not their phone numbers. So this is an important extra layer of security that ensures your phone isn’t visible to people who aren’t in your contact list.

Frankly, WhatsApp has not confirmed when this feature will be available to all users, but likely to be part of a future update. WhatsApp has also recently added other features like voice notes and polls for channels, which are public groups that users can join to get updates from various sources.

looks like WhatsApp pays special attention to improving file sharing in its app. This had recently received new features such as a new 2GB limit for transfers, the ability to send HD video, and even the ability to send up to 100 photos and videos at once. Even better, WhatsApp has made it even easier to transfer files between smartphones using a simple QR code.

New WhatsApp feature may disturb users

But since Google and Samsung recently announced a new wireless file sharing standard called Quick Share, this feature is likely to cause confusion and competition. Introduced at CES 2024, Quick Share is the new name for the existing Nearby Share feature that allows Android users to share files with other devices using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.

Quick Share is designed to provide a unified and seamless file sharing experience on Android smartphones as well as Chrome OS and Windows devices. Quick Share will also offer faster and more reliable transfer speedsas well as features like device visibility and file preview. Quick Share is expected to be available for all Android devices in February and will compete with Apple’s AirDrop, which offers similar file sharing functionality for iOS and macOS devices.