WhatsApp is testing an AirDrop-like feature for iPhones

WhatsApp is testing a new feature that allows users to share their photos, videos, and other media or documents without relying on the internet. The upcoming feature was spotted on iPhones and it’s similar to Apple’s AirDrop, but works with the help of a QR code. The same feature was spotted on Android sometime back, which means we may it sooner than expected.

WhatsApp is testing an offline file-sharing feature

According to WABetaInfo, WhatsApp is testing a new file-sharing feature that works offline. This means that you can share photos, videos, and other media or documents without internet connectivity. The new feature was spotted on WhatsApp beta for iOS 24.15.10.70.

The feature called “Nearby share” is similar to Apple’s AirDrop and is now available to select users on the said beta update. The feature lets other users scan the QR code on your WhatsApp to start file sharing. This will make things convenient as it will enable quick sharing of files when two people are nearby.

If you are a beta tester, you may have received the feature. You can access it through Settings for now. Those who want to join the beta program and get updates need to sign up on Apple’s TesFlight app.

The feature was previously spotted on WhatsApp for Android version 2.24.2.20. However, instead of a QR code, it required users to search nearby devices. We think that this is the same feature as the one that was just spotted on the iOS version of the app.

WhatsApp hasn’t confirmed the feature yet, but since it was spotted in the beta version, expect it to arrive soon. Usually, most features that arrive in the beta version of the app appear the stable version in a few months to year’s time. That said, expect this one to be available later this year.