The latest update of Opera Mini incorporates a file sharing function without an Internet connection. Here is how to use it.
Opera has just unveiled a major update to its Opera Mini web browser, available on Android. This new version inaugurates an unprecedented file sharing function that works offline.
To work, this function creates a private direct Wi-Fi network between the two smartphones that have to share content. Here’s how to quickly share files stored on your device with another Android smartphone.
1. Download the latest version of Opera Mini
If you haven’t already, download the latest version of Opera Mini first. Stamped 44.1, this major update of the Android application integrates the file sharing function.
- Download Opera mini for Android (Free)
2. Go to settings
On the first Android device, open Opera Mini, unfold the main menu by pressing O and enter the File Sharing menu. Give Opera Mini permission to access your device’s storage by tapping Allow. Then choose to Allow Opera Mini to access photos, media, and files stored on your device.
3. Select the files to share
Opera Mini then displays what looks like the interface of any file manager. Select the items you want to share in the different storage sections (pictures, videos, music, etc.) and press Send.
To be able to locate the device to which the files are going to be sent, Opera Mini requires that you authorize the Geolocation of the device. Tap Allow to continue and then tap Allow only if the app is running.
Selecting this setting will limit Opera Mini’s ability to use geolocation only when using the app.
4. Scan the QR Code
On the device sharing the content, Opera Mini displays a QR Code which must be scanned with the second device.
Open Opera Mini on the second device, deploy the main menu by pressing O, and enter the File sharing menu, and validate all the necessary permissions.
Then tap Receive, authorize use of the camera, and scan the QR Code displayed on the first device.
Once the connection between the two devices is established, press the Send button from the first smartphone. Files should automatically be shared from one device to another.
5. Create a shortcut
Opera Mini offers the possibility to configure a shortcut on the home screen of your device for faster access later. Tap Add now, then Add automatically from the pop-up to confirm adding the shortcut to your smartphone.
The shortcut can also be added by accessing the File Sharing options. To do this, press the three small dots at the top right, choose Home screen and validate the addition to the home screen by pressing Add automatically.
The shortcut created will allow you to directly access the Opera Mini sharing window, without having to enter the various menus of the browser.
6. Access shared files
Opera Mini displays three tabs at the bottom of the interface: Your files, to browse the files on your device, and Received and Sent for quick access to received and sent files.
Once the sharing is complete, disconnect the two devices by deploying the options and then tapping Disconnect.