WhatsApp is continuously enhancing the user experience by introducing new features. In a recent update to the Android beta version, a new feature called “People Nearby” has emerged. This feature enables file transfer between two WhatsApp accounts without needing an internet connection.
Although the offline file transfer feature has been in development for some time, the latest update from WABetaInfo reveals the setup screen for this feature, detailing the required permissions.
WhatsApp to allow file transfer without internet connection.
WhatsApp’s offline file transfer feature, showcased in screenshots from WhatsApp for Android beta 2.24.9.22, indicates the app’s efforts to enable users to transfer photos, videos, documents, and other files without cellular or internet connectivity.
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For the feature to function, users must grant necessary permissions, including the option to be discoverable by nearby users. Additionally, permissions for accessing storage and media files, location, and connecting with other devices on the local network are required.
It’s worth noting that users will have the option to revoke these permissions as they see fit. Additionally, file transfers through the “People Nearby” feature will be end-to-end encrypted, ensuring the same level of security as messages and calls on the platform. Furthermore, the phone number will remain hidden throughout the transfer process.
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Here’s how it works:
WhatsApp is gearing up to introduce a feature that will enable users to share files and documents without requiring an internet connection. Here’s a glimpse of how the feature operates:
- Offline Sharing: Users can share files and documents with others even when there’s no internet connection available.
- End-to-End Encryption: Similar to messages and calls on the platform, file transfers through this feature will be end-to-end encrypted, ensuring privacy and security.
- Hidden Phone Numbers: Throughout the transfer process, phone numbers will remain hidden, preserving user privacy.
- Revocable Permissions: Users will have the option to revoke permissions associated with this feature as needed.
- Proximity-Based Transfer: The feature utilizes the proximity of devices to facilitate file sharing. Devices need to be nearby for the transfer to occur.
- Dedicated Screen: WhatsApp will provide a dedicated screen where users can view all available nearby devices for file sharing, making the process seamless and convenient.
Keep in mind that this feature is currently in the testing phase and is visible only to a limited number of beta users. We can expect WhatsApp to roll out the feature to more beta users in the coming weeks as it progresses through testing.