WhatsApp is reportedly developing a new functionality that will enable users to share files via a local network. This enhancement will address the issue of sharing crucial documents in areas with limited or no internet connection.
The development is a part of several new functionalities, which the application is exploring to enhance its messaging service. The platform is also testing a contact feature for users to attach personalised notes to individual contacts, which will be visible to only those users who created them and will not be shared with the contacts themselves.
This function is expected to be available on both the mobile application and WhatsApp Web.
According to reports, this local file-sharing feature will also allow users to share photos, without any internet or cellular data connection. To enable the update users must choose to be discoverable to nearby users, which works like Bluetooth and requires permission that can be revoked anytime, ensuring control over the visibility.
WhatsApp has claimed that the new option for file sharing will be end-to-end encrypted, maintaining the same level of security that WhatsApp messages are known for.
Currently, the features are reported to be in beta testing and WhatsApp is yet to make the official announcement.