Google Play Store Removes P2P App Sharing Feature

Google has officially removed the Peer-to-Peer (P2P) 'Share apps' feature from the Play Store, which allowed Android users to transfer apps without an internet connection. Initially introduced in early 2021, this functionality was aimed at users in areas with limited connectivity, allowing them to share apps without consuming mobile data. The discontinuation of this feature, confirmed in recent updates, has disappointed many users who relied on it for offline app sharing, especially in regions where internet access is costly or unreliable. Although Google has not provided a detailed rationale for this decision, some speculate it may be due to low usage or concerns over potential piracy. Users can still share apps using Google's 'Files by Google' app or third-party alternatives like SHAREit and Xender. Nevertheless, the removal signifies a shift towards cloud-based solutions over direct device-to-device transfers.