A feature tracker reports that WhatsApp is working on an iOS feature that will allow users to share documents, files, media, and other stuff with other devices that are in close proximity. There are rumors that it works similarly to Apple’s AirDrop feature, which lets you share content between two Apple devices that are in close proximity to one another. According to reports, this functionality is not yet available to WhatsApp for iOS beta testers and is still under development. It is anticipated to launch on WhatsApp for Android as well.
The nearby file-sharing feature was initially observed in WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.24.9.22 in April. It has now been identified in development on WhatsApp beta for iOS version 24.15.10.70 update via the TestFlight program. However, it is not yet accessible to testers who install the latest beta. A QR code scan may be required to share files across devices using WhatsApp’s nearby file-sharing capability.
Speculation suggests that this feature will enable users to share documents, files, photos, videos, and other data without requiring an internet connection. It remains uncertain if this capability differs from the one being developed for the Android version, which uses nearby device detection.
The file transfer feature will also include end-to-end encryption, ensuring secure data transfers. Once released, it may allow users to share files between platforms, such as Android and iOS devices. Since the feature is still in the early stages of development, there is no official date announced for its launch.
Besides the Nearby Share feature, WhatsApp for iOS is rumored to be working on a new method for quickly discovering channels. The ‘Updates’ tab has reportedly been redesigned in the latest beta update, now featuring a shortcut for channel exploration. It’s also said that the most recent update makes changes to the overall UI by relocating the ‘create channels’ option inside the navigation bar. It is reported that beta testers who installed the WhatsApp for iOS app beta 24.14.10.79 update can use this functionality.
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