14 DAY TRIAL // We already know that Android devices feel at home on Windows, all thanks to Microsoft’s commitment to the Your Phone app, but now it looks like Google wants to be part of the fun as well.
The company announced at CES that it’s bringing both Fast Pair and Nearby Share to Windows, therefore enhancing the experience of Android users on Microsoft’s desktop operating system.
With Fast Pair, users can more conveniently pair Bluetooth-enabled devices with Windows devices.
On the other hand, Nearby Share makes it easier for users to share files with Windows devices, so they wouldn’t necessarily need the Your Phone app for the whole thing.
In theory, sharing a file with a Windows device will be possible right from the sharing sheet on Android, though Microsoft is using an approach that many might consider more convenient. Thanks to the mobile companion app on Windows 10 and Windows 11, users can just browse the content of their phone on the desktop, in some cases even mirroring the screen on their PCs.
Launch planning for later this year
Google says the new features will launch later this year, and at first glance, it looks like they will only be available on some new devices, perhaps with a dedicated app.
“For the first time with Android, we’re also focused on building for other platforms, like Windows, whether it's in gaming, productivity or other areas. For example, by connecting your Android phone to your Windows PC with Fast Pair, you’ll be able to quickly set up Bluetooth accessories, sync text messages and share files with Nearby Share. We’re working with Acer, HP and Intel to bring these experiences to select Windows PCs first later this year,” Google said.
Further information on these features is obviously expected to be unveiled at the company’s annual developer event in the summer.