Nearby Share Archives

AppWizard

July 16, 2025

I found a better way to transfer files between Android and Linux

Transferring files between a Pop!OS Linux desktop and an Android device can be done using a tool named Packet, which utilizes Quick Share for file transfers over the same wireless network. To install Packet, the Linux distribution must support Flatpak applications, Bluetooth must be enabled, and the Android device should run a version of Android that includes Nearby Share. User privileges with sudo access are required for installation. The installation involves executing a command in the terminal and optionally logging out and back in. Users need to enable the Static Network Port in Packet's Preferences and open port 9300 on the firewall using the command PLACEHOLDER74f5483d2fa9d11c for successful file transfers. Files received are stored in the ~/Downloads folder, which can be customized in the Preferences settings.

AppWizard

June 20, 2025

I found a file-transferring app that works between Android and Linux – and it’s free to use

Packet is a tool that allows users to transfer files from a Pop!_OS Linux desktop to an Android device over the same wireless network. It works with Quick Share and requires a Linux distribution with Flatpak support, an Android device with Nearby Share enabled, and sudo privileges on the Linux machine. The installation involves executing a command in the terminal, toggling the Static Network Port option to 'On', and ensuring port 9300 is open on the firewall. Files received on the Linux desktop are stored in the ~/Downloads folder, which can be customized.

AppWizard

June 19, 2025

This Linux app makes sharing files to Android a breeze

Packet is a user-friendly application that facilitates file transfers from a Pop!_OS Linux desktop to an Android device, requiring both devices to be on the same wireless network and using Quick Share. It is distributed as a Flatpak app, necessitating a Linux distribution with a universal package manager and an Android device that supports Nearby Share. Users need sudo privileges to install Packet via the terminal. After installation, users must enable the Static Network Port in Preferences and open port 9300 on their firewall to allow communication. Files sent from Android devices are stored in the ~/Downloads folder, which can be modified in the Preferences settings.

Winsage

February 22, 2025

Windows upgrades to Start, Search, and Share might arrive sooner than you expect

A new Drag Tray feature allows users to share files by dragging them to a tray at the top of the screen, simplifying the sharing process. The Start menu can now be customized with a Grid view or a Category view for easier navigation. Windows Search has been updated to allow users to find images by typing a description instead of the file name, including images stored in the cloud. This search enhancement is currently available on Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs, with support for AMD and Intel models expected soon.

AppWizard

December 26, 2024

Recap: Pixel updates, Feature Drops, and new apps in 2024

In 2024, Made by Google released multiple updates for the Pixel phone, introducing new features and enhancing existing functionalities across six updates. - January Feature Drop: Launched with the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, it included the Pixel Thermometer app for forehead temperature readings, Circle to Search, and the rebranding of Quick Share from Nearby Share. - March Feature Drop: Introduced with Android 14 QPR2, it featured an expandable Bluetooth Quick Settings Tile, a Material You volume slider, new casting options, and a "Hello?" button for the Call Screen feature. The Pixel Tablet received the Gboard Voice Toolbar. - June Feature Drop: Marked by the early launch of the Pixel 8a, it introduced Audio Emoji, Display Port Support for external screens, Gemini Nano technology, and camera improvements for various Pixel models. The Android 14 QPR3 update focused on minor tweaks. - Pixel 9 Series Launch: Debuted alongside Android 14, backporting features from the Android 15 Beta. Introduced three new applications: Pixel Screenshots, Pixel Studio, and Pixel Weather, along with Gemini Live and on-device Call Notes. - Android 15/October Drop: Introduced Android 15 with a Private Space option, Predictive Back functionality, a redesigned screenshot interface, underwater photography capabilities for the Pixel 9 series, and an enhanced Adaptive Vibration feature. - December Drop: Included Android 15 QPR1 with a Material You redesign for Settings, charging optimization, enhancements to the Pixel Screenshots app, a clear voice feature for the Pixel Recorder, broader rollout of contextual replies for Gemini, and Dual Screen Portrait Mode for foldable devices. Google extended Android OS updates for the Pixel 6 and 7 series.

AppWizard

December 18, 2024

Google Play Store to remove peer-to-peer ‘app share’ functionality

Version 44.1 of the Google Play Store has removed the "Share apps" feature, which allowed users to share installed applications via Nearby Share. This feature was introduced in early 2021 and enabled app transfers without internet or mobile data usage. The change was noted by 9to5Google in the official changelog, and while Google has not commented on the removal, there are speculations about security concerns related to potential malware distribution. Users can still share apps using Files by Google or third-party file sharing applications.