Nearby Share for Windows was originally released as a part of a global beta earlier in May and received over 1.7 million installs. — Google
Google has officially launched Nearby Share for Windows, a file transfer tool that allows users to send and receive files across nearby Windows and Android devices, similar to how AirDrop works in the Apple ecosystem.
To start using the tool, users will first need to download and install the Windows client from Google's website. Make sure that the device the client is being installed on is Bluetooth-capable.
Once installed, users will have to either login or proceed without an account. Logging in will add an option to only accept file transfers from devices that have the same account logged in.
After that, simply give the device a name, then it will be all set up and ready to either receive or send files on the Windows side of things.
Nearby Share is already included in Android, so just navigate to the Nearby Share option in the settings menu and toggle device visibility to receive files using the feature.
When sharing from a Windows PC to another device, drag and drop the file or folder to the Nearby Sharing window and select the device it is being sent to.
On an Android device, navigate to the file that is to be shared, tap on the share button and select Nearby Share before picking a device to send it to.
Users also have the ability to select who is able to send them files on both Windows and Android, whether it is everyone, only those in their contact list, other devices with the same Google account, or disable sharing by hiding the device.
Devices that have the same Google account will not require any approval for the sharing to take place, but all others will require that users approve the transfer requests.
Those intending to use Nearby Share on their Android devices should take note that it is only available on devices running Android 6.0 and above. Devices should also have Bluetooth enabled, be on the same WiFi network, and kept within 5 meters of each other when transferring.
Nearby Share for Windows was originally released as a part of a global beta earlier in May and received over 1.7 million installs.
