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Android Nearby Share is a convenient feature that allows Android users to share files, apps, and more with nearby devices effortlessly. Whether you need to send photos, documents, or links, Nearby Share simplifies the sharing process without requiring an internet connection. Here’s everything you need to know about this useful tool.

Device Compatibility

Nearby Share is available on a variety of devices:

• Android devices running Android 6.0 and up
• Chromebooks with Chrome OS version 91 and up
• Windows PCs with a 64-bit version of Windows 10 and up

Turning On Nearby Share

Before you start sharing, ensure that Nearby Share is enabled on your Android device:

1. Turn on Bluetooth: Swipe down from the top of your screen and tap “Bluetooth” to enable it.
2. Turn on Location: Swipe down, touch and hold “Location,” and ensure it’s enabled. If you don’t see Location, you can add it to your Quick Settings.
3. Enable Nearby Share: Open the “Files by Google” app, tap the menu, go to Settings, and scroll down to enable Nearby Share.

How Nearby Share Handles Your Data

Nearby Share collects some data to provide its services, but it’s privacy-conscious and encrypts the collected data during transit. This data includes your account and device names, contacts, usage information, crash logs, diagnostics, and more.

Sending Files or Apps

To share files or apps with Nearby Share:

1. Open the “Files by Google” app on your Android device.
2. Tap “Nearby Share” at the bottom.
3. Select “Send.”
4. Choose the files or apps you want to share (up to 500 files).
5. Tap “Next,” and Nearby Share will display nearby Android devices.
6. Select the recipient, and after the transfer, you’ll be redirected to the Nearby Share tab.

Receiving Files or Apps

To receive files or apps through Nearby Share:

1. Open the “Files by Google” app on your Android device.
2. Tap “Nearby Share.”
3. Select “Receive,” and Nearby Share will show shared files or apps.
4. Tap “Accept” to receive them. To delete all transferred files, tap “Cancel.”
5. After the transfer, find the received files in the “Downloads” section.

Troubleshooting Issues

If you encounter problems while using Nearby Share:

• Ensure your device is visible by swiping down and tapping “Nearby Share” in Quick Settings.
• Check that Bluetooth and Location are enabled on both devices.
• Keep the devices within 1 foot (30 cm) of each other.
• Try turning Airplane mode on and off.
• Restart your device.
• Make sure no other device is sharing content with the target device.

For the best experience, keep your “Files by Google” app updated to the latest version.

Google Nearby Share simplifies file sharing, making it quick, secure, and hassle-free. Whether you’re sharing with friends or colleagues, this feature ensures that sharing content between Android devices is a breeze.