WhatsApp is testing a new feature called “Close Contact”. This innovation makes it possible to exchange files with people in the immediate vicinity without the internet. Here’s what you need to know about this new feature of WhatsApp…
AN AIRDROP-LIKE OPERATION
This feature, discovered by WABetaInfo, is called “Nearby Contacts” and offers similar functionality to Android’s Nearby Share and Apple’s AirDrop features.
DOES NOT REQUIRE INTERNET CONNECTION
This new feature of WhatsApp uses Bluetooth technology for file transfer and thus does not require an internet connection.
HOW TO USE NEARBY PEOPLE?
To use this feature on WhatsApp, users must provide media access, Bluetooth and location permissions. The “Nearby People” option can be accessed from the Settings menu and after the necessary permissions are granted, the feature begins to detect nearby devices. However, to send files, the feature must be active on both devices.
WHEN WILL IT BE AVAILABLE?
WhatsApp states that the “Nearby People” feature is secure and protected by end-to-end encryption. Additionally, the phone number is kept confidential during the transfer process. This feature, which is currently being tested in the Android beta version, is not yet known whether it will be offered to iOS users or when it will be available for general use.
