How To Use Google Nearby Share?

Step 1: Navigate to the file

First, you should navigate to the file you wish to transfer. This could be anything from a picture to a document or PDF or even an mp3 song file. You can even select multiple files to share at once.

Once you have your files selected, tap and hold on to the file and you should see a Share option or button pop up somewhere on your screen. Depending on your phone, the location might slightly differ. You can also share the file by pressing the three dots on top of your screen that should be the Options icon.

Step 2: Tap on Nearby Share

Once the Share Sheet pops up, you should see the Nearby Share icon right on top. Since this is a new feature, it shows up very easily so people can find it.

Step 3: Turn on Nearby Share

If you don't already have Nearby Share turned on, then you will get a pop-up to turn on your Nearby Share. Press yes. It will also ask your permission for Bluetooth and WiFi. Tap on Accept.

The phone you want to transfer the file to should also have its Google Play Services Nearby Share feature turned on. You can do this by going to the Notification Bar by swiping down and pressing on the Neary Share icon.

Step 4: Select the device

Next, the Nearby Feature will search for any nearby devices that you can share. If all your permissions are correct, then your device should show up here. Remember to set your device to be discoverable to Everyone or Contacts Only, depending on what you want.

Step 5: Accept the File

After you have tapped on the device you want to share the file to, you should get a pop-up on the receiving device asking you if you want to receive the file. Press Accept and the file should transfer.

Part 3: What To Do If Your Google Nearby Share Isn't Working

Though Nearby Share is pretty efficient and reliable, it can at times not work properly. Usually, it's just a case of permissions, and your device isn't discoverable. But at other times, it could be a glitch or a problem in the network. Whatever the issue, you can always use a file-sharing app or just Bluetooth to transfer your files if Nearby Share isn't working.

Way 1: Check Permissions

One of the most common reasons why your Nearby Share isn't working is that your device doesn't show up when you want to transfer the files. Make sure that both of your devices have Nearby Share turned on and that both your devices are discoverable. You can do this by swiping down on your home screen to access the Notification bar. Press on the Nearby Share option to turn it on. Then you should get a pop that asks you whether you want your device to be visible to Everyone, Contacts Only, or Hidden. Select the option you want and see if the problem is fixed.

Way 2: Use AirDroid Personal

If your Nearby Share isn't working try a file-sharing app like AirDroid Personal. Simply download the app on both devices and create an account. Once you have it up and running on your device, you should see an AirDroid option when you want to share files. It's very easy and convenient.

Part 4: AirDroid Personal Features

Not only does AirDroid Personal work across all devices, but it also has its Nearby feature that works in the same way Nearby Share or AirDrop does. So let's check out some features of AirDroid and why it's the best file transfer app.

Nearby Feature

Nearby is AirDroid's latest feature. It's the best alternative to Google Nearby Share or Apple's AirDrop. With the latest version of AirDroid, you can use the Nearby feature to share files. As long as you are close to the other device, and both of them have the latest AirDroid app, then you can transfer files with a direct connection without any hassle. 

One App Fits All

The main problem with both AirDrop and Nearby Share is that it doesn't work across all platforms. AirDrop only works with iOS and Nearby Share with only Google devices. There is no Google Nearby Share iPhone. AirDroid on the other hand works for MAC, Windows, iOS, Android, and even iPads. So you can use one app for all devices.

Chatting Feature

What's cool about AirDroid is that it even has a chatting feature. You can converse with your friends about the pictures you've saved and have relevant conversations in one place. It's sort of like the social media of file sharing. There's no need to use one app for transferring photos and then using another to talk about those photos.

Screen Mirroring

You can also use AirDroid to mirror your Android phones to a bigger screen like your laptop, computer, or even your Smart TV. Use this feature to play games on a bigger screen or watch movies. You can even use it for online teaching or learning and use it as a board to do presentations.

Remote Control

As long as you have provided permission, you can use your AirDroid app to remotely control another Android device from far away. You don't need to root your phone or do anything special. It's easy and hassle-free. This is especially helpful if your phone is broken and your touch screen doesn't work.

Remote Monitoring

If all of that wasn't enough, there's also a remote monitoring feature that allows you to use old phones as a camera or a one-way audio device. You can use it to monitor kids while you work or use it to supervise outside the house as well. There are many different uses.

Part 5: Conclusion

Google Nearby Share is an amazing feature for all Android users. It makes file transfer secure and convenient. It's very easy to use as well, once you get used to it. But the only drawback is that it works with Android/Google devices only. So if you want a solution that works across all platforms, using a file transfer app like AirDroid Personal might be a better option.