Send photos without internet; WhatsApp to introduce new feature to rival Telegram

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: You don't need the internet anymore to share photos, documents and videos on WhatsApp. A new feature is in the testing phase. Earlier, Kerala Kaumudi had reported about the Private messaging behemoth trying newer ways to bring back the lost sheen after its reputation went into question due to the surge in accusations regarding privacy leaks including those of Indians.

The company recently lost almost Rs 3.6 crores when the app went into stagnant mode for two hours blocking all services. Currently, you can share photos via Bluetooth with apps like Quick Share and Share It. This service may come in the next update of WhatsApp. WhatsApp promises that it will be end-to-end encrypted.

Turn on the 'People Nearby' icon in the photo sender and receiver settings. It works like Bluetooth. Allow location in settings to see if the phone is close enough to connect. In the new service, the file transfer takes place only when the sender and receiver click on the 'Agree' option. The phone number should be saved. WhatsApp says that with this, the privacy of users will be protected and files can be transferred even in places where there is no internet.

Currently, students rely heavily on Telegram to send large files. Students who use WhatsApp often lose focus because of groups and statuses in the app. With the new reforms, WhatsApp is aiming to lure back the scores of young users who have left the application to try newer ones. There are also hints that hidden groups will come to WhatsApp to discuss serious topics similar to Telegram's secret group. Artificial Intelligence (AI) powered stickers will also be launched soon.