How to use Nearby Share for Windows PCs

Recently, Google announced that it would be bringing its Nearby Share feature over to PCs, which will finally let users transfer files between their Android phone and Windows computers, in a much quicker way. If you were wondering how to get it done on your devices, then we’ve prepared this quick little guide.

There are some requirements to keep in mind though – currently in its beta stage, the Nearby Share app for PC will require a computer with a 64-bit version of Windows 10 and up, as well as an Android phone with Android 6.0 and up. It’s currently available in the USA and select regions, with the exception of certain countries at the moment. If you meet the criteria, then feel free to follow the steps below.

How to Use Nearby Share for PC

1. Download and install the Nearby Share app for your Windows PC.
2. Select the file you want to send > drag and drop it directly into the app.
3. You can alternatively Right Click > Select “Send with Nearby Share.”
4. Select which Android device to share the file to.

How to Send from Android to PC

1. Turn on Nearby Share on your Windows Computer.
2. Select the item to send from your phone > tap “Share” > select the computer to share it to.

It should be noted that if both the computer and phone are logged into the same Google account, file transfers will be automatically accepted.

Nearby Share was originally introduced to Android a couple of years back, which functions similarly to Apple’s “AirDrop” feature for its devices. While Nearby Share was previously limited to mobile devices, this new development is a much-welcome improvement as it extends functionality to more devices in the long run.