WhatsApp to allow file sharing with nearby users

Feature for file sharing with nearby users was spotted on WhatsApp Beta's Android version of 2.24.2.20
An undated image of a woman using WhatsApp on her phone. — Canva
An undated image of a woman using WhatsApp on her phone. — Canva

The world's most popular instant messaging app, WhatsApp, is working on a new feature to make file sharing easier in an effortless manner. The upcoming update will enable file sharing with people nearby.

The feature comes on the heels of feature it rolled out to allow users to share files 2GB in size. As of now, after exploring additional functionalities to enable users to share files with ease, WhatsApp is working on a new file sharing feature with people nearby, and it will be available in a future update of the app.

The feature was spotted on WhatsApp Beta's Android version of 2.24.2.20 which is available on the Google Play Store.

Read more: WhatsApp's new feature lets users control updates

Which new feature is WhatsApp working on?

According to WABetaInfo, beta testers will be able to explore a new feature to easily share files with people nearby in the future, meaning that both users will need to open this section, as displayed in the picture below, to send and receive files, ensuring secure sharing within close proximity. 

An undated image displaying WhatsApps file sharing feature with nearby users. — WABetaInfo
An undated image displaying WhatsApp's file sharing feature with nearby users. — WABetaInfo

It's noteworthy that sharing files will remain secure even outside of a WhatsApp chat and in an unknown network environment.

By implementing a feature to allow users to share files with people nearby, WhatsApp is broadening the features it currently offers, enhancing user experience and adding important value to the platform. 

In particular, users will be able to quickly share files with nearby people and it’s ideal for situations where a fast and direct transfer is required. In addition, the phone number always remains hidden to non-contacts, ensuring privacy and security in every file exchange.