Google’s Nearby Share, designed to rival Apple’s AirDrop, has evolved into what is now known as Quick Share following its integration with Samsung’s own Quick Share feature on Galaxy devices. Whereas Nearby Share initially allowed users to transfer files using mobile data, the updated Quick Share functionality excluded this option.
Quick Share facilitates seamless file transfers between Android devices, Chromebooks, and Windows PCs. Recent findings from an APK teardown indicate that Google is considering reintroducing the option for users to decide if Quick Share will utilize Wi-Fi or mobile data for transferring files.
Within the recent beta version of Google Play Services app, v24.41.32, a toggle labeled “Use mobile data”was identified in Quick Share. This toggle is described as enabling users to “continue sending or receiving when Wi-Fi isn’t available.”
By enabling the “Use mobile data”toggle, individuals can share files across Android, Chromebook, or Windows PC leveraging their mobile data connection, rather than relying solely on Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. This capability proves beneficial in scenarios where a Wi-Fi network is not accessible, or when transferring files that are too large for Bluetooth to handle effectively.
Since the availability of mobile data plans varies by carrier, it’s advisable for users to confirm whether they possess an unlimited mobile data plan. Failing to do so could result in unexpected charges for data transfer, which could translate to unnecessary expenses.
Another noteworthy aspect of the “Use mobile data”feature in Quick Share is the updated description that was previously part of Nearby Share, which now states, “Data may be used for small files.”This implies that mobile data would be restricted to smaller file sizes only.
Nonetheless, this new feature should enable users to transfer larger files using mobile data without limits. Currently, it is not accessible to users, but it is anticipated to be part of a forthcoming update.
Source and image: Android Authority
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