Windows 11 improves Nearby Sharing

Nearby Sharing gets interface update, improves file transfers, and makes it easier to share files through Outlook in the latest preview of Windows 11.

Windows 11 Nearby Sharing new UI
Windows 11 Nearby Sharing new UI
  • Microsoft is making improvements to the Nearby Sharing feature in Windows 11.
  • These changes include a redesigned share window, improved file transfer speeds, and an easier process for email attachments.
  • The new features are currently in testing with Windows Insiders in the Dev channel.

Microsoft is improving the “Nearby Sharing” feature in Windows 11. These changes include a redesigned share window, improved file transfer speeds, and the ability to see your computers at the top of the list of discovered devices.

The redesigned share window is more modern and in line with the overall aesthetic of Windows 11. It also includes a new option to share files to OneDrive directly from the share window.

The company is using Wi-Fi Direct technology to improve file transfer speeds. According to Microsoft, this new change allows faster and more efficient sharing of files between devices. Also, the experience will now show your computers at the top of the list of discovered devices, making sharing files between your own devices easier. This is especially useful if you have multiple devices in your home or office.

Nearby Sharing UI
Nearby Sharing UI

In addition, you can now send files directly through the Outlook app using the update share interface. The process is straightforward. You would select the file and click the “Share” button in File Explorer. In the “Nearby Sharing” interface, under the “Share using” section, you would click the “Outlook” option, and from the same interface (without opening the Outlook app), you will be able to email the file as an attachment.

Nearby Sharing Outlook attachment
Nearby Sharing Outlook attachment

Even further, the “Nearby Sharing” interface now offers a search box that enables you to find contacts across your accounts.

Overall, these are some welcome improvements to Nearby Sharing in Windows 11. They make sharing files between computers easier and faster, making the experience more user-friendly.

The new Nearby Sharing interface, along with the improvements, are available for testing starting on Windows 11 build 23506 through the Dev Channel from the Windows Insider Program.

About the author

Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He has also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 14 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows and software, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 20 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me. Email him at [email protected].