Google's Fast Share file transfer feature spotted in Android 11
What's the story
Google recently released the second developer preview of Android 11, its next version of the mobile operating system.
The preview build does not bring any major user-facing changes, but it has references to a new Fast Share feature, which is dubbed as Google's own take on Apple's AirDrop file-sharing feature.
Here's more about Fast Share.
Information
Android 11's latest developer version confirms Fast Share naming
Until now, Google's file-sharing feature was being dubbed as "Nearby Sharing". However, some references found in Android 11 Developer Preview 2 have confirmed that the AirDrop rival will be called "Fast Share".
Method
Here's how the feature will work
The latest Android Preview doesn't reveal how the feature works. However, we've seen a "Nearby Sharing" demo between Pixel 2 XL and Pixel 4.
You can activate the feature from the Quick Settings menu to share photos, videos, and other files with or without the internet. You can also set your device's visibility by selecting from options for all contacts, specific contacts or hidden.
Flagship feature?
The feature is likely to first release for Pixel 4
According to some Android 11 release notes, Fast Share is likely to first release for Pixel 4 and later come to other devices.
"When sharing files with Fast Share between two Pixel 4 devices, the operation completes successfully, but the UI on the device which receives the file states that it did not receive the file," reads the Android 11 release notes.
New tools
Android 11 Developer Preview 2 also brings some important APIs
Android 11 Developer Preview 2 may not have major highlights for users, but it surely brings some important tools for developers.
This version has an API for hinge detection in foldable devices, an API for detecting an active 5G connection, and new APIs to screen robocalls better and handle variable refresh rates for displays.