Enable and Use Nearby Share on Windows 11

Windows 11 Nearby Share feature enables users to share files such as photos, documents, and website links with each other. This sharing is made possible by Bluetooth or Wi-Fi technology. Ensuring that these utilities function correctly and their associated drivers are up-to-date is essential.

The best part is that you can also share files with Windows 10 users. With a few clicks, sharing is possible without cables or cords. Note that there’s a difference between “Nearby Sharing” and “Nearby Share from Google.” Although similar, they’re not the same since different companies developed them.

Share a document with Windows 11 Nearby Share

Sharing a document is possible on Nearby Share. When using the tool, ensure that you enable both devices, which are within Bluetooth range of each other. Here is how to use the tool:

1. On the computer you want to share a document from, open Settings by holding the Windows + I keys at once and click open Nearby sharing under System.
   
2. Sign in if you have not done so already.
   
3. Select My device only to share with your device or Everyone nearby to share with everyone. Perform the selection on the sending PC.
   
4. On the computer you want to share a document from, hold the Windows + E keys simultaneously, then open the folder containing the document you intend to share.
5. Then, choose the document you intend to share, and click the Share icon from the toolbar at the top of the display.
   
6. On the next window, select the receiving device name.
   
7. Click Save & open or Save when the notification appears on the receiving device.

Use Windows 11 Nearby Share to Share a Website Link

Sharing a website link using Nearby Share is a quick and easy way to share files without copying and pasting the link or opening a messaging app. It also provides a secure way to share content because the connection is encrypted. Follow the steps below to share a website link:

1. On the computer you want to share a document from, open Settings by holding the Windows + I keys at once and click open Nearby sharing under System.
   
2. Sign in if you have not done so already.
   
3. Select My device only to share with your device or Everyone nearby to share with everyone. Perform the selection on the sending PC.
   
4. Open your browser on the device you want to share from, then visit the webpage you intend to share.
5. We will use Microsoft Edge as the website of reference for this example.
6. In Microsoft Edge, click the ellipses, hover over More tools, and then Share.
   
7. In the next window, select Windows share options.
   
8. Then, choose the name of the receiving device.
   
9. Lastly, select Open on the receiving device when the notification displays to open the link in the web browser.

Share a Picture

Sharing a picture with Nearby Share provides a secure way to share files directly between devices without going through third-party servers. To share a photo using Nearby Share, follow these steps:

1. On the computer you want to share a document from, open Settings by holding the Windows + I keys at once and click open Nearby sharing under System.
   
2. Sign in if you have not done so already.
   
3. Select My device only to share with your device or Everyone nearby to share with everyone. Perform the selection on the sending PC.
   
4. Hold the Windows + E keys simultaneously on the sending device, then open the folder containing the photo you intend to share.
5. Then, choose the picture you intend to share and click the Share icon from the toolbar at the top of the display.
   
6. Select the receiving device name on the next window.
   
7. Click Save & open or Save when the notification appears on the receiving device.

Share a Video

Sharing a video using Nearby Share is also possible. It transfers the video over a secure medium that is encrypted. To transfer videos using Nearby Share, follow these steps:

1. On the computer you want to share a document from, open Settings by holding Windows + I keys at once and click open Nearby sharing under System.
   
2. Sign in if you have not done so already.
   
3. Select My device only to share with your device or Everyone nearby to share with everyone. Perform the selection on the sending PC.
4. Hold the Windows + E keys simultaneously on the sending device, then open the folder containing the photo you intend to share.
5. Then, choose the video you intend to share and click the Share icon from the toolbar at the top of the display.
   
6. Select the receiving device name on the next window.
   
7. Click Save & open or Save when the notification appears on the receiving device.

In the final analysis, we have explored how to enable and use the Nearby Share feature on Windows 11. Nearby Share allows users to share files, links, and other content with nearby devices. This process is quick and wireless, making it convenient for collaboration and transferring data.

The feature allows sharing of content between Windows 11 devices seamlessly without needing external storage or complicated setups. Following the steps in this guide will allow you to easily enable and use the Nearby Share feature, improving your productivity and collaboration capabilities.