iPhone users may soon get this useful AirDrop-style WhatsApp feature: Here’s what we know
WhatsApp is testing a file-sharing feature on iOS that will allow users to share files without an internet connection, much like how AirDrop works. According to reports, this feature has been in development on Android, but now, WhatsApp features tracker WABetaInfo has identified its presence in the WhatsApp iOS beta on the TestFlight beta programme.
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With this feature, users would be able to share documents, photos, videos, and more with nearby devices that have a WhatsApp account, without needing internet access.
Found in the WhatsApp beta for iOS version 24.15.10.70 update, this feature will function by sharing a QR code with the receiving device, rather than using the nearby device detection method employed by WhatsApp for Android.
When this feature eventually rolls out in a stable capacity, it would simplify file transfers. There are times when mobile reception is unavailable, or WiFi is out of reach. This feature could prove quite handy in such situations.
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WABetaInfo notes that users would be able to share across different platforms—be it Android or iOS—regardless of what their contacts are using. Additionally, this transfer process would be end-to-end encrypted, ensuring that only the intended recipients can access the files.
It will be interesting to see how users adapt to this feature, especially on iOS, where AirDrop is already widely used. On Android, this feature may be more impactful as not many people are aware of the Android Quick Share feature.
Currently, there is no official word on the release date for this feature, but it is reportedly still in early development and may take some time before it is released to the public. Development plans can always change, so take this information with a grain of salt until WhatsApp makes an official announcement.
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