Google distributes QR code function for Quick Share

With Quick Share, formerly known as Nearby Share, Google has an alternative to Apple's Airdrop in its program. In order to share data more securely with others, the developers have now introduced sharing via QR code. Google is now distributing the new function to end users in stages.

In the announcement of the Android December update, Google explained the new function in Quick Share. Anyone who wants to share images, videos or documents with others can simply select them, tap the share icon and then use the "QR code" button. Recipients only need to scan the QR code to gain access to the selection.

Secure file transfer with QR code

"This way, the file is transferred securely and you no longer need to add anyone as a contact, have any devices checked or make any changes to your sharing settings," says Google, explaining the advantages of this variant. The function therefore improves privacy protection.

Technically, it is a simple solution: in addition to content sharing with wireless technology, Quick Share also offers web-based file sharing, where recipients receive a download link with an expiry date. The QR code makes this link more easily available; it no longer has to be sent in an e-mail or laboriously typed in.

Quick Share, which was still called Nearby Share at the time, left the beta stage in the middle of last year. The software enables quick and easy data exchange between Android smartphones and Windows PCs. This function, already known from Apple as Airdrop, thus became accessible to a broad mass. To transfer content quickly, Quick Share attempts to establish a WLAN connection. A Bluetooth connection is available as a fallback option. The final option is web-based file sharing, which has now been expanded.

(dmk)