There are countless apps for file sharing across Android, and a new app that goes against the grain with native Quick Share that brings it all together: LiveDrop shares files using animated QR codes. And it works much better than it looks, we’ve verified that.

Imagine you want to send a file as anonymously as possible, without a wireless connection acting as a bridge to send data. If you have two phones, you can use a dual USB C cable and thanks to the file manager move them from one unit to another. While no two Android phones always behave the same, it doesn’t come with too many complications; Not to mention the need for a cable that we don’t always carry with us. Could there be another way to guarantee anonymity? Yes yes: camera.

QR codes to send files without any type of link

A certain amount of data can be stored in a static QR code. Possible Enclose text of up to 4,296 characters in alphanumeric mode; Approximately 0.003 megabytes (MB), with a maximum information size of 2,953 bytes if binary code was used within the QR. Although at first glance the capacity to send data using this system seems very low, LiveDrop manages to achieve this.

Just as if we were capturing a QR image from a bar table, but without portions of croquettes appearing on the screen: with LiveDrop we can send a PDF, a photo from the gallery and other documents. Making use of QR codes and camera. The mobile phone that shares the information generates QR codes so that the phone receiving the file can capture these QR codes with its camera.

We tested the app and the truth is that it works great. And it’s amazing that you can send files with QR codes or even images. Although yes, it does this by cheating a bit: The maximum amount to send is 150 KB; therefore, LiveDrop applies compression to images to fit these limitations. Anything larger than 150 KB cannot be sent, at least for now. LiveDrop will likely expand the limits in future updates.

The process for exchanging files with LiveDrop is as follows:

• Both phones must have the app installed.
• You must add the file from the selector with the “+” sign at the bottom on the sending mobile phone. Choose what you want: If it is an image that LiveDrop will compress it in webp, the rest of the files should not exceed 150 KB.
• You need to click on the QR icon above the “+” sign on the mobile phone receiving the file.
• Now all that’s left is to capture the animated QR displayed on the sending phone with the receiving phone’s camera. Both devices should be kept in visual contact until the transfer is complete.
• All received files are displayed in a list in LiveDrop: you can view them here, but also share them via the share icon above.

Sending files using LiveDrop

LiveDrop is a very interesting application that can be convenient when you need to send a file and there is no connection type available. For example, a flight ticket or any other document in the boarding queue Without fear of someone interfering with the wireless connection. Perfect for privacy paranoia.

The app is free, contains no ads, and has no in-app purchases. We found it great as a concept.

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