Google has quietly removed the ‘Share Apps’ feature from the Google Play Store, a function that allowed users to send apps directly to nearby devices using peer-to-peer sharing. This change, which took effect in March 2025, means Android users can no longer transfer apps without using the internet via Google Play.
The feature was introduced in 2021 as a way to help users in areas with limited or expensive internet access, allowing them to share apps directly via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Direct without needing to download them again from the Play Store.
Why Did Google Remove It?
While Google hasn’t provided an official explanation, there are several possible reasons behind the removal:
Low Usage – Many users may have preferred using alternatives like Files by Google or third-party file-sharing apps instead.
Security Concerns – Google may have wanted to tighten control over app distribution and updates, ensuring apps are always downloaded from Play Store servers.
Integration with Nearby Share – Google has been expanding Nearby Share (now part of Quick Share) as its go-to method for device-to-device transfers, which may have made Play Store app sharing redundant.
How Can You Share Apps Now?
Even though Google Play Store no longer supports direct app sharing, there are still other ways to send apps between Android devices:
Files by Google – This app allows users to send APKs of installed apps over Wi-Fi Direct, without needing an internet connection.
Quick Share (formerly Nearby Share) – If the app supports sharing via Google’s built-in sharing tool, users can transfer links or files easily.
Third-Party File Sharing Apps – Apps like ShareMe, Xender, or Zapya still offer peer-to-peer sharing capabilities.
However, users should be cautious when sharing APK files, as manual installations bypass Google Play security checks, potentially exposing devices to security risks.
What This Means for Android Users
The removal of ‘Share Apps’ in Google Play Store may not affect users significantly, especially since Files by Google still provides a similar function. However, for users who relied on the built-in Play Store method, this change marks a shift in how Android handles offline app sharing, pushing users toward Google’s broader sharing ecosystem.
As Google continues integrating Quick Share across Android and Windows, it’s likely that peer-to-peer sharing will remain available—but in a more unified and Google-controlled way.
