Google’s Near Share for Windows is now officially available
Google announced on Wednesday that the Nearby sharing for Windows is now officially available as an app for all users worldwide. This app enables people to transfer files between Android devices and Windows PCs fast.
Previously available only on Android devices, Near Share allowed data to be transferred between devices via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, creating a peer-to-peer connection between devices, eliminating the need for an Internet connection.
The Share Nearby app allows you to share files and links, such as images, videos, text, contact information, directions, YouTube videos, and other data.
However, in March 2023, Google expanded this functionality by introducing Near Share beta for Windows to enable file sharing between Android devices and Windows PCs.
According to Google, the beta version has now been installed by more than 1.7 million people around the world. Since its beta debut, the app has transferred more than 50 million files between PC and Android devices, with photos and videos being the most shared files.
This means that users no longer need cables or cords and can easily share media with their own devices or with nearby friends and family with just a few clicks.
Android has improved overall speed and reliability since the app launched in beta in March 2023. Regular updates have also helped reduce crashes and increase the success rate of file transfers.
“Today is the official launch of Near Share with Windows, with improved performance and new functionality that make it even easier for you to share content and stay productive,” Ronald Ho, Group Product Manager, Android, wrote in a blog post.
With the official release, Google is also adding new product improvements to the Nearby Sharing app for Windows. The company has the estimated time for file transfers must be completed to enable users to understand how fast sending large files such as videos or entire folders is shared.
Furthermore, it has added a image preview in device notifications to help users confirm that the correct file is being shared.
“To make sharing between Android devices and PCs even smoother, we’re working with partners like HP to add the Near Share app to select Windows PCs, such as the HP Dragonfly Pro. We will continue to work on Near Share for Windows, adding new functionality and listening to your feedback,” concludes Ho.
You can download the Share Nearby app for Windows from the Android website or visit the Google Help Center for more information.
