Google ‘Fast Share’ to replace Android Beam in Android Q

Google is working on a new feature that will replace Android Beam, an NFC-based file sharing service. Google File Share works without an internet connection and could rival Apple’s AirDrop feature.

With Google Fast Share, you don’t need to tap phones to share files or other data, instead, you will be presented with a list of nearby devices (using Bluetooth and Location to be turned on). And once you connect to a receiving device and they accept the request, the data transfer happens over Wi-Fi.

With Google Fast Share, users can share images, URL and short snippets of text instantly. According to the media reports, Google Fast Share will not only work with Android phones but also smartwatches, Chrome OS devices, and even iPhones.

To use fast share, you need to first it and make your device is visible to others. Google Fast Share is currently available on certain Pixel devices running Android Q, though older devices could also receive it as an update to Google Services.

The search giant will also Pixel 4 smartphone later this year. The Google Pixel 4 is expected to come with the same frosted, silky finish as seen in Pixel 3. From the Pixel 4 leaks, Google seems to take a different path when designing the phone by not using the curved edges at the back. This, if gets approved will make Pixel 4 distinct.

And according to the Pixel 4 leaks, the smartphone will have a square camera module similar to the one in Huawei Mate 20 Pro or in the upcoming Apple iPhone 11. An additional front camera is also expected to support faster face unlock. Google could also include ‘Project Soli’ technology in the front cameras which will allow users to navigate the screen and user interface by waving hands in front of the screen. If rolled out, this will be one of its navigation experience in a smartphone.

The Pixel 4 leaks also suggest the design of the phone be water and dust resistant. Last year’s Pixel’s also had the same design. There could also be OLED screen in the new Pixel 4. The Pixel 4 XL is reported to sport a 6.5-inch and the Pixel 4 would come with a 6-inch screen.

The smartphone will be powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 processor with up to 6GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage. Unlike the provision of a 3.5mm headphone jack on cheaper Pixel 3a series, the Pixel 4 won’t have a 3.5mm audio jack. The smartphone will run on Android Q.