This Play Store Trick Lets You Share Android Apps and Updates with Nearby Devices — Even When Offline

In today's world, where smartphones are constantly in use, discussing popular apps in social settings is common. This often results in sharing app links through messages, either by copying and pasting URLs or using the sharing feature. Yet, there's a different approach to share apps that's particularly useful for sharing multiple apps and updates offline.

For example, after revisiting Pokemon Go and discovering helpful companion apps for capturing Pokemon, I might strike up a conversation with someone interested in returning to the game or a player unaware of these apps.

If your friend uses an Android device, you can share these recommended apps directly from your Android to theirs via the Google Play Store. This method is effective offline and can also facilitate sending app updates to users who haven't yet received them.

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Requirements

To proceed, ensure Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Location permissions are enabled for Google Play Store on both devices. Also, make sure the devices are within 20 feet of each other.

Launch the Google Play Store

On both the sending and receiving devices, open the Google Play Store, tap the profile icon at the top right, and choose "Manage apps & device."

Initiate Sending Apps on the Sending Device

On the device sharing the apps, go to the "Overview" tab and tap "Send" next to "Share apps." After reading the instructions, tap "Continue." You'll need to grant permission for the Google Play Store to connect with nearby devices by tapping "Allow" on the prompt.

Prepare to Receive Apps on the Receiving Device

On the receiving device, navigate to the "Overview" tab and tap "Receive" next to "Share apps." After the instructions, tap "Continue" and then "Allow" to permit the Google Play Store to connect with nearby devices. The device will then wait on the receiving screen for the sender to select apps.

Transmit Apps from the Sending Device

On the sending device, select the apps you wish to share. You can share free apps and updates, but not paid, age-restricted, or corporate apps, nor media such as books and movies. Once selected, tap the send button at the top and choose the receiving device's name from the list. A code will appear on both devices.

Accept Apps on the Receiving Device

On the receiving device, the pairing code will appear. Tap "Receive" to start the transfer from the sending device. To install the apps, tap "Install" next to the desired apps or "Install all" at the top. If you navigate away, you can return to the "Receive" screen to install them later.

Once the apps are transferred, you can tap "Disconnect" on the sending device to end the session.

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Cover photo and screenshots by Tommy Palladino/Gadget Hacks

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