How to Use Android Nearby Share on Windows 11

This guide shows you how to use Android Nearby Share on your Windows 11 computer. This tool lets you move photos and documents wirelessly between your phone and your PC.

Why use Nearby Share?

Sending files via email or cloud storage can be slow. Nearby Share creates a direct link between your devices so you can move files instantly without cables.

What happens when done?

Once you finish these steps, you will see your computer appear as a destination whenever you choose to “share” a file on your Android phone.

To use this, your PC must run a 64-bit version version of Windows 11. You also need to ensure that Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are turned on in your computer settings.

Setting up Nearby Share on Windows

You do not need to install anything on your Android phone because it is already built into Android 6 or higher. You only need to set up your PC.

Note: You may need administrator privileges to install new software on your computer.

1. Download the app using this link: Download the Android Nearby app
2. Run the installer. If you are asked for permission to make changes to your system, confirm that you want to proceed.
3. Once installed, the app will ask you to sign in to your Google account.

After signing in, you can choose who is allowed to send files to your computer. If you sign in with the same Google account on your phone and your PC, your files will transfer automatically without needing extra approval.

Your computer is now “listening” for your phone. On your Android device, go to your Settings and turn on Nearby Share.

To send a file, just select the photo or document on your phone, tap the share icon, and choose Nearby Share. Your computer name will appear in the list.

If you prefer not to install extra software, Windows also has a Phone Link app feature, but the dedicated app is generally faster and easier to manage.

Summary

Nearby Share is a simple way to move files between Android and Windows. By installing the app from Download the Android Nearby app and signing in with your Google account, you create a secure connection. Once set up, you can share files wirelessly by selecting your PC from the share menu on your phone.

Reference: Android Nearby Share app