Google's Nearby Share & Samsung's Quick Share join forces as 'Quick Share'

During the ongoing CES 2024, Google officially confirmed the rumored unification of Nearby Share and Samsung’s Quick Share for a single multi-device wireless file transfer solution under the simple name ‘Quick Share’.

Samsung and Google continue to show that their relationship is closer than ever, not only working for Pixel devices, but also to improve Android features. Let’s remember that Samsung worked directly with the Mountain View giant to develop Wear OS, unifying Android Wear and Tizen.

The goal of the new ‘Quick Share’ is to offer the best possible solution for moving data between Android and Chromebook devices. Plus, according to Google, they’re ‘working with leading PC manufacturers like LG to expand Quick Share to Windows PCs as a pre-installed app.‘ Basically, the ‘big G’ wants to offer the best one-place system you can use no matter what device you have.

The operation of Quick Share seems to be quite simple and intuitive. Simply tap the new icon to see a list of all the nearby devices you can send files to. You can also manage your privacy, deciding whether you want your device to appear available to anyone, all your saved contacts, or only your own devices.

Nearby Share-compatible devices will start receiving Quick Share starting in February, so you won’t have to wait long to get it.

In related news, the Chromecast with Google TV is getting support for the ‘Fast Pair’ feature, and it will reach more of the company’s products throughout the year. ‘Fast Pair’ is a function that speeds up the process of connecting compatible Bluetooth peripherals or accessories (like headphones or speakers) to your devices.

Thanks to Fast Pair, you only need to put the accessory you want to connect in ‘Pairing mode’ and confirm on the screen to complete the process. In addition, you can easily change the audio output source with a simple tap.

Finally, TikTok fans are in luck as devices with Chromecast built-in now support casting directly from the app, both regular videos and live videos.