How to use Nearby Share on Android phones
Nearby Share lets you easily share things with other Android users. Here's how to use Nearby Share.
Nearby Share is a feature that allows you to share files wirelessly between devices in the Google software ecosystem. It basically works like Apple's AirDrop, and the way it works is not much different. Nearby Share uses a variety of connection protocols to help you send and receive files quickly. When you need to send a file, the feature will display users around you, and when you select a recipient, they will receive a notification to accept or decline the file you send.
In addition to Android (version 6.0 or later), Nearby Share is now available on Chromebooks running Chrome OS 89 or later. In this article, we'll show you how to set up and use Nearby Share on a Chromebook.
Set up Nearby Share on Chromebook
First, open the Settings menu on your Chromebook by clicking the clock in the bottom-right corner of the screen to display the Quick Settings panel. Then click the gear icon to open the Settings menu.

In the Settings screen, look to the left menu and click on the “ Connected Devices ” tab.

Next, if the feature is available, you will see “Nearby Share” listed here. Click “ Set Up ” to get started.

First, name your device and click “ Next ”. This is the name others will see when they start searching for your device with Nearby Share.

The next step is to decide who can share data with you. You have three options:
If you choose “ All Contacts ” or “ Hidden ”, then no further setup is required.

If you select Some Contacts, the system will let you go through your contact list and select each person. Scroll through the list and select anyone you want to allow to see your device via Nearby Share.

Click "Confirm" to confirm.

That's it for the initial setup, let's get started with the data sharing process with Nearby Share.
Using Nearby Share on Chromebook
Nearby Share works in two ways—sending and receiving. First, we'll cover how to send something on a Chromebook using Nearby Share.
First, click the App Launcher icon in the bottom left corner of your screen to see all the apps on your Chromebook or Chromebox. Then, open the “ Files ” app.

Find the file you want to share and right-click on it.

From the context menu that appears, click “ Share ”.

“ Nearby Share ” will be one of the options that appear, tap on it.

Available devices will appear here. Click to select the device you want to share files with, then click “ Next ”.

Once the device receives “ Accept ”, the file transfer will begin.

Receiving files via Nearby Share on Chromebook is also simple. When a device is trying to share data with your Chromebook, you will see a notification on the screen asking if you want to “ Recieve ” or “ Decline ”.

Click “ Recieve ” and the file transfer will be completed in a few moments.
Nearby Share lets you easily share things with other Android users. Here's how to use Nearby Share.
You love apps and use them every day. But what if you want to spread the love to your friends and family? Sharing Android apps is really easy with an app URL.
Struggling with Microsoft Teams "Network Error" on Wi-Fi? Discover step-by-step fixes for solving Microsoft Teams Network Error on Wi-Fi, from cache clearing to DNS tweaks. Get back to seamless calls now!
Struggling with Microsoft Teams "Joining Error" via link? Discover quick, step-by-step troubleshooting fixes for smooth meeting joins. Updated with the latest solutions for desktop, web, and mobile.
Frustrated by Microsoft Teams "MS Team Error" 2026? Discover proven, step-by-step solutions to get back online instantly. Latest 2026 updates included for seamless fixes.
Struggling with Microsoft Teams "Loading Error" infinite loop? Follow our expert, step-by-step guide to fix it quickly. Clear cache, update app, and more for seamless teamwork. Works on Windows, Mac & web.
Struggling with Microsoft Teams "Chat Error" not sending messages? Discover step-by-step fixes for the latest Teams issues, from cache clearing to network tweaks. Get back to chatting seamlessly in minutes!
Tired of Microsoft Teams "Meet" joining error blocking your meetings? Discover proven, step-by-step fixes to resolve Microsoft Teams Meet joining issues quickly and get back to seamless collaboration. Updated with the latest troubleshooting tips.
Struggling with Microsoft Teams "Installation Has Failed" on Windows 11? Follow our step-by-step troubleshooting guide with proven fixes, from clearing cache to advanced repairs, to resolve the error quickly and painlessly. Get Teams running smoothly today!
Tired of Microsoft Teams Breakout Rooms not showing up? Follow our ultimate guide with step-by-step fixes, troubleshooting tips, and prevention strategies to get breakout rooms working seamlessly for productive meetings.
Tired of Microsoft Teams shortcut error blocking your workflow? Learn proven steps to solve Microsoft Teams shortcut error and startup crashes for smooth collaboration. Quick, easy fixes inside!
Struggling with Microsoft Teams "Planner Error" in channels? Discover proven, step-by-step solutions to resolve it quickly and restore seamless collaboration. No tech skills needed!
Discover how to set up Microsoft Teams for school and education effortlessly. Get free access, create classes, assignments, and meetings with our ultimate guide for teachers and students. Boost learning today!
Discover how to use Microsoft Teams Whiteboard in 2026 with this complete guide. Learn access methods, AI-powered features, step-by-step tutorials, and pro tips for seamless collaboration in virtual meetings. Boost productivity today!
Stuck with Microsoft Teams errors? Get step-by-step fixes for crashes, sign-in failures, audio glitches, and more. Proven solutions to resolve general Teams issues fast and frustration-free.
Stuck with Microsoft Teams Wiki not loading error? This ultimate troubleshooting guide delivers quick, step-by-step solutions to fix the issue fast and restore seamless collaboration.
Struggling to locate the Microsoft Teams Installation Folder on your PC? This step-by-step guide reveals exact paths for new and classic Teams, per-user & per-machine installs. Save time troubleshooting!