Similar to Apple’s AirDrop, Google is planning to roll out in-built functionality for their Android OS users. Google Nearby Share will offer sharing of files, music, photos or links between devices near to you. The feature will be rolling to Android v6.0 and later devices. There will no need to install any additional app since it will be a feature directly accessible from the Android’s notification panel.
How it works?
Nearby Share allows you to cut down on that time with simple taps and see a list of devices in your proximity with which you can share content. Once you select the receiver, they will be notified with the option to either accept or decline the file. Nearby Share then automatically chooses the best protocol for fast and easy sharing using Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy, WebRTC or peer-to-peer WiFi — allowing you to share even when you’re fully offline.
Where is Privacy?
Nearby Share allows you to both send and receive files anonymously. It also allows you to adjust your privacy settings from your phone’s Quick Settings at any time. You can be “hidden,” visible to “some contacts” or visible to “all contacts,” so you never receive files that you didn’t ask for.
Pixel and Samsung smartphones will be the first ones to receive Nearby Share feature. Google said they are working closely with other partners to bring this feature to more smartphones in the Android ecosystem over the next few weeks. In the coming months, Google is planning to integrate this feature in Chromebooks as well.