WhatsApp will add a mode to share files without an Internet connection
Now, they have found that the 24.15.10.70 update in Beta phase for iOS also adds this feature.
Just yesterday it was leaked that WhatsApp was working on introducing usernames so that you don't have to share your phone number. It seems that the most popular messaging app in the world is working on the privacy and security of its users. Now we know that WhatsApp will add a file sharing feature with people nearby in the next update.
Meta (formerly Facebook) has been adding new features to expand the capabilities of this messaging app for some time now. Examples include stories within the social network or Channels and Communities.
But all these changes would be just one part of the strategy they are working on for this application. We have heard several rumors about integrating a payment gateway within the application with the aim of turning it into, what is called, a super application.
WhatsApp will include the People Nearby feature
It has been known for some time that WhatsApp is working on implementing the function of sharing files with people nearby. The idea is that we can share documents, photos, videos or any file without needing an internet connection. It is also intended that it will not be necessary to have the person in our contact list.
Initially, this feature was only in Beta phase within the Android app. Now, they have found that the 24.15.10.70 update in Beta phase for iOS also adds this feature. It seems that this new feature will arrive in the version of both mobile operating systems.
One thing that stands out is that there are differences in “People Nearby” between the Android version and the iOS version. For Android, no additional elements are required, since it scans nearby devices, but it seems that on iOS there will be a QR code that must be scanned. The recipient must scan the QR code to start the file transfer.
In terms of security, the second method seems to be the best way to share files offline. The Android method could lead to mass sending of malicious files or links that may pose a security risk. Hopefully, Android will also implement a QR code.
The “People Nearby” feature is especially useful for sharing large files such as photos, videos and/or documents. It is especially useful for users with limited data, areas with high user volume and traffic, areas with poor coverage or low-speed networks.
This new feature will be cross-platform, allowing it to be used from Android to iOS and vice versa. Additionally, end-to-end encryption is added, which guarantees that only the sender and receiver can access the content.
You should keep in mind that both versions are solutions implemented in the development phase. There is a possibility that certain features may be changed or new functions added. In our opinion, the best mechanism is the one developed for iOS, which prevents malicious attacks.
It is worth noting that the “People Nearby” feature does not yet have a date for deployment. It is expected to arrive soon, as the testing phase is already well advanced and it seems to be working without any major problems. We are looking forward to trying out this new feature.