WhatsApp to introduce AirDrop-like feature for iPhone users

WEB DESK: WhatsApp is expanding its capabilities with a new feature similar to Apple’s AirDrop, allowing users to share files without requiring an internet connection. Initially tested on Android devices, this functionality is now set to be available for iPhone users as well.

The feature, named “Nearby Share,” has been included in the latest beta release of WhatsApp for iOS, which is accessible through TestFlight. This feature enables users to transfer photos, videos, and documents to nearby devices wirelessly via a secure, end-to-end encrypted connection.

However, due to limitations within iOS, the iPhone implementation will differ slightly. Unlike the Android version, which can automatically detect nearby devices, iOS users will need to scan a QR code to initiate the file transfer process.

One notable aspect of Nearby Share is its cross-platform capability, allowing file transfers between iOS and Android devices, thus facilitating easier exchanges between users of different phone brands.

Currently, the feature is only available for internal testing and has not yet been rolled out to the general public. There is no confirmed release date for when Nearby Share will become accessible to all users.

In addition to this upcoming feature, WhatsApp recently introduced several other updates, including enhanced context for unknown group chats, default HD quality for photos and videos, and a new button for exploring available channels, as reported by MacMagazine.

WhatsApp remains available for free on the App Store, though users may need to wait for some time before these new features become visible on their devices.

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