WhatsApp, the popular messaging app owned by Meta, is testing a new feature that lets iOS users share files with nearby devices without needing an internet connection. This functionality is similar to Apple’s AirDrop.
Discovery and Android Comparison
WABetaInfo, a well-known source for WhatsApp leaks, discovered the feature in the latest iOS beta update (24.15.10.70). Interestingly, this feature was first tested in the Android beta (version 2.24.2.20) back in January 2024.
Offline File Sharing
The new feature allows sharing documents, photos, videos, and other files with nearby devices without an internet connection. However, unlike the Android version, iOS users will need to scan a QR code to initiate the transfer.
Benefits and Encryption
WABetaInfo highlights the advantages of offline file sharing, especially for large files and in areas with poor internet. They also confirm cross-platform functionality (Android and iOS) and end-to-end encryption for secure transfers.
Development Stage and Future Updates
It’s important to note that this feature is still under development, and the final version may differ. The file-sharing feature is expected to be included in a future update to the WhatsApp app.
How it Works (with Additional Information)
The new file-sharing feature is still under development, but it’s expected to work in the following way:
- Users will be able to select a file (document, photo, video, etc.) that they want to share.
- WhatsApp will then generate a QR code for the file.
- The recipient will need to scan the QR code with their iOS device using the WhatsApp camera.
- Once the QR code is scanned, the file will be transferred between the two devices.
This method of using QR codes is different from the approach being tested in the WhatsApp beta for Android, which uses nearby device detection. It’s possible that WhatsApp may implement different file-sharing methods for different platforms depending on technical considerations or user preferences.
Benefits of Offline File Sharing
There are several benefits to being able to share files offline with nearby devices:
- Faster transfers: Sharing files over Wi-Fi or mobile data can be slow, especially for large files. Offline file sharing can be much faster, especially in areas with poor internet connectivity.
- Data savings: Sharing files offline doesn’t use any mobile data, which can be important for users on limited data plans.
- Convenience: Offline file sharing is convenient in situations where there is no internet connection available, such as on airplanes or in remote locations.
Additional Notes
- It’s important to note that this feature is still in early development, so the final version may differ from what is currently being tested.
- The file-sharing feature is expected to be added in a future update to the WhatsApp app.
- This feature is expected to work across different platforms, including Android and iOS.
- The file sharing will use end-to-end encryption, ensuring that only the intended recipient can access the content.
Stay tuned for further developments!