How to Change Device Visibility in Android Nearby Share

This guide explains how to manage your “Device visibility” settings using Android Nearby Share on Windows 11. The Android Nearby Share feature lets you easily send photos, documents, and files between your Android phone and your Windows computer.

Why manage device visibility? You want to control who can “see” your computer and send you files. This keeps your PC safe from strangers.

What happens when you are done? Your computer will only accept files from the people or devices you have chosen, keeping your data private.

Changing Device Visibility

Before you begin, ensure you have the app installed. If you need help, follow this guide: How to install the Android Nearby Share app on Windows 11.

1. Open the app by clicking the Start menu and finding it in your list of apps.

2. You can also launch the app from the Taskbar or Taskbar overflow.

3. Once the app is open, click the Settings gear icon in the top right corner.

4. Select the Device visibility tile to see your options.

5. Click the drop-down menu to choose who can share files with you.

6. To pick specific people, toggle the “Visible to all contacts” button and select the users you trust.

7. Choose one of these levels for your visibility:

• Everyone: Anyone nearby can see your computer.
• Contacts: Only people in your Gmail contacts can see your computer.
• Your devices: Only other computers or phones you own (logged into your account) can see your computer.
• No one: Your computer is completely hidden.

Summary

Managing your visibility settings in Android Nearby Share is a great way to stay in control of your digital security. By choosing “No one” or “Your devices,” you ensure that only the people you trust can send files to your computer. Remember to check these settings whenever you are in a public place to keep your files safe.

Note: No administrative privileges are required to change these settings within the app.