Android Beta launches Nearby Share for Windows app

Google has launched the beta app Nearby Share for Windows, announced during CES 2022, which allows file transfers between Android devices and PCs.

The beta version of Nearby Share for Windows is now available for download directly from android.com. It is compatible with Windows 10 and newer (64-bit version) but not with ARM devices. To use this app, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi must be enabled on your PC, and devices need to be within a 16-foot (5-meter) proximity for data transfer.

This app allows for quick sharing of photos, videos, documents, audio files, or entire folders between Android devices and Windows PCs. It is particularly useful for tasks such as editing photos on a larger screen or organizing digital folders.

Upon installation, users are prompted to sign in to their Google Account to customize sharing preferences, but there is also an option to use the app without an account. The app features a Material 3 design for the window with a blue accent, and files can be sent through drag-and-drop or right-clicking on a file and selecting “Send with Nearby Share.” The app icon is a blue double helix.

Nearby Share on Windows offers the same device visibility controls as on Android: Everyone, Contacts, Your devices, and No one. When a transfer is received, users can choose to Open or Dismiss it. Google states that all transfers through Nearby Share are protected by end-to-end encryption.

The download is currently available in the US, but users in Europe, specifically in France, may not have access to the website option. However, there are no limitations on installation once the file is obtained.