Google Nearby Share (beta) now works with Windows PCs around the world
You can share files and photos between your Android phone and PC
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What you need to know
Windows PC owners have a new way to connect their system to their Android device on the way. Google recently added Nearby Share (beta) to the Microsoft Store. Now, a much larger number of users can test the app.
Nearby Share (beta) was already available in select countries, but it can now be downloaded around the world. AGoogle support documentstates that the app is available in “most countries globally” (viaAndroid Police). Cuba, Iran, North Korea, and Syria are the only countries that don’t have support at the moment.
Nearby Share has been around for years, and it is a handy way to send files between supported devices. But with it being limited to Android devices, Nearby Share was never really a competitor to Apple’s AirDrop. That could change with the addition of Windows support.
Here are the minimum requirements to use Nearby Share (beta), as listed by Google. Note that Windows on ARM devices are not supported:
You’ll also need to install the Nearby Share app for Windows and set it up.
Nearby Share for Windows (beta) | Free from Google
This app allows you to share files back and forth between Android devices and Windows PCs. Nearby Share is supported on most Android smartphones, which means you can now easily share content to and from your phone and computer.
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Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He’s covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean’s journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.
