Google has been rolling out the ability to share apps with nearby select Android handsets using Nearby Share since early last year. You can now share apps with friends directly via the Play Store over Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
The really neat feature is you can now transfer large games between devices without having to manually transfer OBB files like you would have to with other apps like Xender or Files by Google. An OBB file is an expansion file used by Android games distributed using the Google Play online store. It contains data that is not stored in the application’s main package (.APK file), such as graphics, media files, and other large program assets.
Here’s how to transfer games via the Google Playstore
How to share & Receive
- Open the Google Play Store app
- At the top right, tap the profile icon.
- Tap Manage apps & devices.
- In the “Overview” tab, next to “Share apps,” tap Send or Receive
- Select which apps to share
- To receive, after the sender shares the apps, wait for a pairing code. If the code matches the code on your friend’s phone, tap Receive.
- Install the apps.
A number of things you should note:
- This feature isn’t available in South Korea or South Africa.
- The devices should be within 20 feet of each other.
- Both the sender and receiver should turn on permission for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Location.
- The receiver should have enough space on their device for the app.
And there you have it! No more hassle installing those large games.
