It has been alleged that Meta is developing a function for WhatsApp that would connect Android and iPhone, similar to AirDrop.

Currently, simple file sharing across Apple devices is made possible via the iPhone function AirDrop. Google's Nearby Share on Android (now Quick Share on Samsung) emulates the features of AirDrop.

However, there's no cross-platform solution for file sharing between iPhone and Android. With over 2 billion users globally, WhatsApp, popular for bridging iPhone and Android communication, makes Meta's potential AirDrop equivalent intriguing. Despite being an iPhone user, the author values WhatsApp as the primary chat app, especially prevalent in Europe, creating a cross-platform feature crucial for seamless communication across different devices and platforms.

WhatsApp Developing AirDrop-Like Feature for Nearby File Sharing

Reportedly, WhatsApp is developing a function allowing users to swap files with other nearby devices, akin to Apple's AirDrop. Users shake their devices to initiate a sharing request. This feature is currently under development and not yet in beta testing. The recipient can open WhatsApp and shake their device to see and approve the sharing popup once the request has been made.

Like AirDrop, the tool attempts to improve WhatsApp users' file-sharing experience.

While the proximity range required for this feature is still unknown, it is noted that AirDrop typically operates within a range of about 30 feet. The security aspects of the new WhatsApp feature align with the platform's existing measures, with end-to-end encryption for file sharing and privacy protection for phone numbers when sharing files with individuals outside of the user's contacts.

However, details about whether the shared files will automatically download to the recipient's camera roll or if the feature exclusively uses Bluetooth for sharing remain uncertain. WhatsApp's current capabilities allow users to send up to 100 photos simultaneously through regular messaging, and it will be interesting to see how this new feature distinguishes itself in terms of functionality and user experience.

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Cross-Platform Compatibility Could Boost WhatsApp's Nearby File-Sharing Feature

WhatsApp's soon-to-be file-sharing perk might get a lift if cross-platform ease is built in. This lets users easily swap files, regardless of their operating system. A good point of note: Google and Samsung worked hand in hand to merge Nearby Share into Quick Share for Android fans. Yet, if WhatsApp also includes cross-platform help, it'll stand out from Quick Share and more.

Cross-platform capabilities would allow consumers to transfer files between iOS and Android devices and vice versa, offering a more flexible and user-friendly interface. The absence of cross-platform support in competing services might lead to confusion if users receive similar functionalities from different tools.

If Meta incorporates cross-platform sharing in the final release, it could significantly distinguish WhatsApp's file-sharing feature in the competitive landscape.

In addition to providing end-to-end encryption for data transfers, WhatsApp's new file-sharing feature will safeguard the sender's phone number when sharing with non-contacts nearby. The end-to-end encryption aligns with the security standards expected from an encrypted chat app.

However, the gesture the recipient requires to view the sender's share request may clash with the shake-to-undo feature on iPhones, creating a minor usability concern.

While the introduction of the WhatsApp AirDrop equivalent is still in the beta stage, its implementation is not guaranteed. If the feature progresses to release, it is expected to be available on Android and iPhone platforms, offering a seamless cross-device experience for users.

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