How to Transfer Files Between Windows PC and Android Using Google’s Nearby Share Download Windows Speedup Tool to fix errors and make PC run faster Google’s Nearby Share app is now officially available for Windows operating systems, allowing users to seamlessly transfer files between their PC and Android devices. In this guide, we’ll explore the key features of Google’s Nearby Share app and walk you through the steps to use it on your Windows 11/10 PC.
Using Google’s Nearby Share on Windows
Originally featured on Android phones for wireless data transfer, Google later extended the functionality to Windows PCs for seamless file sharing between a Windows PC and an Android device (phone, tablet, or Chromebook). The app was initially launched in beta in April 2023 and is now officially available for both Windows 10 and Windows 11 users.
With Nearby Share, you can share various files, including photos, videos, documents, and even entire folders, over Wi-Fi and Bluetooth networks. The two devices must be within 16 feet (5 meters) of each other to send or receive files. Additionally, you have control over who can discover your device and the option to confirm a transfer before receiving files from other users. During the transfer, the files are protected by end-to-end encryption for added security.
How to Use Google’s Nearby Share App on Windows PC
Google’s Nearby Share is natively available on Android devices running Android 6.0 Marshmallow and above. To start sharing files between an Android device and a Windows PC, you only need to install the Windows version of the app. It is compatible with 64-bit Windows systems (Windows 11/10), and currently, it is not supported on 32-bit operating systems or systems with ARM processors.
Note: If you wish to share files between two Windows PCs, use the Windows’ Nearby Sharing feature.
To use Google’s Nearby Share app on your Windows PC (desktop or laptop), follow these steps:
- Download and Install Google’s Nearby Share App for Windows
To get started, visit www.android.com and click on the “Get started” button. This will download a setup file on your PC. Double-click on the file to run the setup. If prompted, click “Yes” in the User Account Control prompt. Allow the setup to download the required files and install Google’s Nearby Share on your PC.
- Set Up Nearby Share
After a successful installation, the app will launch. You’ll be prompted to sign in using a Google account. Signing in allows the app to customize your sharing preferences and only allow your Google contacts to share files with you. However, you have the option to use the app with or without a Google account.
Next, you’ll see the “Set up Nearby Share” screen, which includes three setting options:
- Visible to others as: Your Windows PC will appear on nearby devices for connection with this name.
- Sending: You can send files to nearby devices that have chosen to be visible.
- Receiving: You can choose who can discover your device or share files with you. This option has four choices: Everyone, Contacts, Your devices, and No one.
- Share the Files
After setting up Google’s Nearby Share app for Windows, you can start sending or receiving files. Here’s how to do it:
A] Receive a File from Phone to PC
To share an image file from your Android phone to your Windows 11 PC, ensure that Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and the Location feature are turned on for both devices. Under “Receiving” in the Nearby Share (for Windows) app settings, select “Your devices” to make your Windows PC discoverable to your Android phone.
On your smartphone, open the image in the Gallery app and tap the Share icon. You’ll see a Nearby Share button next to the “Share files via” option. Click on it.
You’ll be prompted to turn on Nearby Share. Tap on the profile picture icon next to your device name and choose the same Google account used for Nearby Share on your Windows PC. Then tap on the Settings (gear) icon next to the “Device visibility” option, choose “Your devices” from the available options, and click on the Done button. Finally, click on the Turn on button.
Within seconds, your phone will discover your PC, and its name will appear in the Nearby Share popup. Click on your PC’s name to send a connection request.
Go back to your PC and click on the Accept button to approve the connection request and initiate the file transfer.
B] Send a File from PC to Phone
To send files from your PC to your Android phone, select the files using one of three methods: drag-n-drop, File Explorer, or right-click and select “Send with Nearby Share.”
The files you select will appear in the left panel of the app’s window. The app will detect your phone and display its name. Click on your phone’s name to start sharing the file.
Nearby Share will begin sending the file, and you’ll receive a notification when the transfer is complete.
You can use Google’s Nearby Share app for Windows to send and receive multiple files between your PC and Android devices. Remember to ensure both devices have Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Location services enabled and are unlocked before initiating the transfer.
If you encounter any difficulties while using the app, feel free to let us know in the comments section below.
Note: Google’s Nearby Share app is compatible with Windows 11 and Windows 10 (64-bit only, not supported on ARM processors). Over 1.7 million users have already downloaded and installed the app worldwide.
Why is Nearby Share Not Working on My PC?
If you are experiencing issues with Nearby Share on your Windows PC, make sure you have a compatible version of Windows (Windows 11/10) and that you have enabled location, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi features on both devices. Also, ensure that neither device is locked before initiating a pairing request.
