Google’s Nearby Share is a feature that allows you to quickly and easily share files, links, and more with nearby devices. It works similarly to Apple’s AirDrop, but it is compatible with Android, ChromeOS, and Windows devices. However, if you want to use Nearby Share with your Mac, you need a third-party app called NearDrop.
NearDrop is an open-source app that partially implements Google’s Nearby Share protocol for macOS. It lets you receive files from your Android device to your Mac over a local Wi-Fi network. It is simple to use and does not require any configuration. In this blog, we will show you how to install and use NearDrop on your Mac.
Table of Contents
How to Install NearDrop on Your Mac
To install NearDrop on your Mac, follow these steps:
- Download NearDrop from the GitHub page.
- Extract it from the downloaded ZIP folder.
- Drag and drop the app to the Applications folder on your Mac.
- When running for the first time, right-click the app and select “Open”, then confirm running an app from unidentified developer.
- If you want the app to start on boot, follow these steps to add NearDrop as a login item.
How to Use NearDrop to Receive Files from Android
To use NearDrop to receive files from your Android device, follow these steps:
- Make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network.
- Open the NearDrop app on your Mac. You will see a menu bar icon with a blue arrow.
- On your Android device, open the app or file that you want to share, and tap the share icon.
- Select Nearby Share from the list of options.
- Wait for your Mac to appear on the list of nearby devices, and tap it.
- On your Mac, you will see a notification asking you to accept the file. Click Accept.
- The file will be saved to your Downloads folder on your Mac.
Limitations and Alternatives of NearDrop
NearDrop is a useful app, but it has some limitations that you should be aware of:
- It only works on Wi-Fi LAN. Your Android device and your Mac need to be on the same network for this app to work.
- It only supports receiving files. You cannot send files from your Mac to your Android device using NearDrop.
- It is visible to everyone on your network at all times while the app is running. You cannot limit the visibility to specific contacts or devices.
If you are looking for alternatives to NearDrop, you can try these options:
- Use a cloud service like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive to sync files between your devices.
- Use a USB cable to connect your Android device to your Mac and transfer files using Android File Transfer.
- Use a third-party app like HandShaker, AirDroid, or Snapdrop to transfer files wirelessly.
Disclaimer: NearDrop is an unofficial project and not affiliated with Google. Use it at your own discretion.
Conclusion
NearDrop is a handy app that lets you use Google’s Nearby Share feature on your Mac. It is easy to install and use, and it does not require any configuration. However, it has some limitations, such as only working on Wi-Fi LAN, only supporting receiving files, and being visible to everyone on your network. If you are looking for more features or flexibility, you can try some of the alternatives we mentioned.
We hope you found this blog helpful. If you have any questions or feedback, please leave a comment below. Thank you for reading!
