Do you know you can install any file, app or game without manually downloading it from the Google Play store? There are 2 easy methods for sharing the apps between Android devices mentioned above.
- Sharing the direct link of the app from the Google play store to the receiving end of the Android device
- Through Nearby share built-in feature in Android devices
Sharing the Direct Link of the App to the Android device:
This method is useful when the recipient is not physically nearby, so for long-distance sharing this method is appropriate and has a low tech approach following are the steps:
- We start from the Google Play Store. Find the app or game that you want to share and tap the three-dot menu icon in the top-right corner and select “Share” from the menu.
- From here you can either “Copy” the link or paste it in any messaging or social media app you want, or select an app to directly share it.
In order to share the apps between Android device, the Nearby share feature provided. It is a Google Play store’s functionality built-in feature for sending apps and games to people or one Android device to another.
It is similar to Airdrop feature on Apple devices like iPhone, iPad etc. No contact information exchange or being on the same network. But they just need to be physically nearby.
Nearby share uses Bluetooth, Wi-fi and current location to send content. It automatically decides which method to opt for situationally. Likewise, large files are often transferred through Wi-fi, while smaller ones can be sent via Bluetooth. Enabling Mobile data or disabling internet transfer can also be selected.
Nearby share functionality is available in all the Android 6.0 Marshmallow and onwards version such as; Pixel phones, Chromebook and Chrome browser etc.
To use nearby share, find a device that is close by, is unlocked, and has Bluetooth and location services turned on. Then receiving device will be asked to be visible to the sender. The receiver must choose to become visible every time, which means nothing will be received without consent. Otherwise, it is also possible to make yourself hidden.
From Sender end:
- Open the Google Play Store app on your Android phone or tablet. Tap the 3 lined menu in the top-left. Select “My Apps & Games” from the menu.
- You’ll be brought to the “Updates” tab on the My Apps & Games page. Switch to the “Share” tab.
- Tap the “Send” button to begin the process with Nearby Share.
- You may be asked to give the Google Play Store access to your location. Tap “Continue.”
- Then, select one of the permission choices to proceed.
- Next, you’ll see a list of all the apps and games installed on your device. Select any that you wish to share, then tap the send icon in the top-right corner.
From Receivers end:
- Now, the person who is receiving will need to open the Play Store as well and head to the “Share” tab. However, they will select “Receive.”
- Once you see their device show up, select it.
- A pairing code will appear on your device and theirs. Share what the code is and that they can tap “Receive” if it matches.
- The app(s) will be sent, and they can tap the “Install” button to get it. Since you sent the actual app file, it will install quickly.
Done sharing successfully!!!
