WhatsApp may soon let you share photos, files without internet

WhatsApp usually works on multiple different features simultaneously to make communication more convenient and easier. The latest one could be a lifesaver for people trying to share files in an area with a spotty internet connection. While a previous report hinted at WhatsApp’s upcoming feature to allow file-sharing without an internet connection, the latest leak shows the permissions this functionality would require to work on an Android phone. New screenshots also show users can enable the feature as and when it arrives.

WhatsApp file-sharing without internet

WABetaInfo has reported that WhatsApp is actively working on this feature to allow users to share photos, videos, music, and documents, among other things without needing the internet. However, the functionality would work in a better way than expected. All the files shared on WhatsApp through this mode would be encrypted, making it difficult for bad actors to corrupt them.

The screenshots, obtained from the latest WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.24.9.22, show the messaging app would require permission to discover nearby phones supporting the functionality. This is one of Android’s system permissions that can scan nearby devices through Bluetooth for local file-sharing. That is one permission users must give for the feature to give, but they can revoke access at any time.

How the functionality would work on WhatsApp. (Image: WABetaInfo)

Needless to say, WhatsApp would need permission to access the system files, including access to the photo gallery on your phone. The app would also need location permission to “determine if other devices are in range for connection.” The report mentioned that WhatsApp will also mask phone numbers while encrypting the shareable files, making the entire process foolproof for users.

A familiar feature

The upcoming functionality is very similar to how peer-to-peer file-sharing apps work. Now discontinued, apps such as ShareIT used a similar mechanism to allow sharing files between two devices without requiring a cellular or Wi-Fi connection. WhatsApp users share different sorts of media files, documents being the most important and photos being another priority. WhatsApp has not said when it is planning to roll this feature out, but considering it is in beta testing, it should arrive sooner or later.