Smartphone apps and games are a big part of our lives, so it’s natural to spread the news when you find one you really enjoy. Android makes it easy to share apps with other Android users.
We can do much better than just telling someone the name of an app and letting them search. There are a few different methods you can use to easily send an app or game directly to other Android users.
Send with ‘Nearby part’
“Nearby Sharing” is an Android feature similar to AirDrop on the iPhone, iPad and Mac. You do not have to exchange contact information or be on the same network as someone to send them something. They just need to be physically close.
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The Google Play Store has a nearby Share feature built-in to send apps and games to people. This method is nice because it sends the actual file through the app store, which means the recipient can install it quickly without having to download it manually first.
First, open the Play Store app on your Android phone or tablet. Tap the hamburger menu at the top left to open the overflow menu.
Select ‘My apps and games’ from the menu.
You will be taken to the “Updates” tab on the My Apps & Games page. Switch to the “Share” tab.
Tap the “Submit” button to start the process with a nearby part.
You may be asked to give the Google Play Store access to your location. Tap “Continue.”
Then select one of the permission choices to continue.
You will then see a list of all the apps and games installed on your device. Select one you want to share and then tap the send icon in the top right corner.
The recipient must also open the Play Store and go to the “Share” tab. However, they will select ‘Receive’.
Once you see their device appear, select it.
A pairing code will appear on you and your device. Let them know what the code is and that they can tap “Receive” if it matches.
The app (s) will be sent and they can tap on the “Install” button to get it. Since you sent the actual app file, it will install quickly.
That’s it! You can both disconnect now.
Share a direct link from the Google Play Store
This second method is more low-tech, but it works if the receiver is not physically close.
Again, we start from the Google Play Store. Find the app or game you want to share and tap the three-point menu icon at the top right.
Then select “Share” from the menu.
Android’s original submenu will open. You can “copy” the link and paste it into any messaging or social media app, or choose an app to share it directly.
That’s all there’s to it. Whoever you send it to can click on the link and be taken directly to the app page in the Play Store.
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