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SHAREit
DeveloperSmart Media4U Technology Pte.Ltd
Initial releaseApril 28, 2013; 12 years ago (2013-04-28) [1]
Stable release(s)
Android6.20.39_ww / April 28, 2022; 3 years ago (2022-04-28)[2]
iOS3.7.38 / April 24, 2022; 3 years ago (2022-04-24)[3]
Windows Desktop4.0.6.177
Windows UWP1.7.18.0
Operating systemAndroid, iOS, Windows 10 Mobile, Windows NT, macOS
Size129.3 MB (iOS)
52 MB (Android)
Available in45 languages including English, Hindi, Bangla, Indonesian, Arabic, Russian etc.[4]
LicenceFreeware
Websiteshareit.ushareit.com

SHAREit is a peer-to-peer file sharing, content streaming and gaming platform that supports online and offline sharing of files and contents.[5][6][7] It allows users access to short format videos and a wide range of games, making it a multimedia entertainment app for users. It works on various smartphone platforms and Windows, allowing users to share files between devices directly.[8] SHAREit was developed as part of Lenovo at its initial stage but was later spun off and operated under a separate Singapore based technology company Smart Technology Pte. Ltd.

History

[edit]

SHAREit was first released under Lenovo before its ownership was transferred to Smart Media4U Technology based in Singapore.[9][10] At its initial release, the app was only a peer-to-peer file sharing facilitator. SHAREit later introduced entertainment features into the app, allowing users to watch videos by collaborating with entertainment providers such as Times Music.[11] On 8 May 2018, SHAREit acquired South India OTT platform Fastfilmz app and appointed the founder Karam Malhotra as the partner and vice president of the company.[12][13]

Gaming

[edit]

Following the upgrade of SHAREit from peer to peer file and content sharing app, a separate gaming center was introduced into the app allowing users to play HTML5 games and gaming videos.[14][15][16]

India

[edit]

In 2017, Indian Defence Ministry raised security concern against 42 popular apps including SHAREit, WeChat, Mi Store, Truecaller and ordered its armed forces to uninstall all such apps from their phones and computers.[17] SHAREit denied the allegation stating that its security metadata integration program with Google ensures that all apps transferred through SHAREit are screened by Google Play and certified malware free before allowing them to be shared between devices through SHAREit app.[18]

In June 2020, Indian government announced the ban of 59 apps including SHAREit, TikTok, UC Browser, Weibo, Xender[19] as tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh sparked a fatal face-off between the Indian and Chinese armies.[20][21]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

SHAREit

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
SHAREit is a cross-platform file-sharing application that enables users to transfer large volumes of photos, videos, music, documents, and other files between Android, , Windows, and macOS devices via or hotspot connections, circumventing the need for cellular data or . Originally developed under Lenovo's umbrella and launched around , the app was subsequently managed by SHAREit Group, a technology firm established in 2015 and headquartered in with roots in Chinese development teams, achieving widespread adoption through its high-speed transfer capabilities—claimed to reach 42 MB/s—and compatibility across ecosystems. By 2023, SHAREit had amassed over 2.4 billion global installs, dominating in regions like , , and parts of and where bandwidth constraints favored offline sharing, evolving beyond mere to include content streaming, gaming distribution, and targeting its vast user base in low-connectivity markets. However, its prominence has been overshadowed by flaws, such as unpatched vulnerabilities enabling remote code execution and data leakage from 2017 to 2021, alongside national -driven bans: prohibited it in June 2020 citing risks to user privacy and amid border tensions with , while the U.S. in January 2021 targeted transactions with the app over similar and apprehensions tied to its Chinese-linked operations.

History and Development

Origins Within (2012–2015)

SHAREit originated as an internal project within 's software division in , initiated around 2012 to address challenges in wireless amid limited mobile data connectivity. A team of engineers, motivated by difficulties sharing photos during a group hike in a remote area, developed the app to enable fast, data-free transfers using technology, bypassing traditional limitations. This effort aligned with 's broader push into mobile apps under its DOit suite, aiming to enhance user experience on its Android devices. The app initially launched in under the name Eggplant Express (茄子快传), targeting domestic users with poor , before rebranding internationally as SHAREit by April 2013. It supported cross-device transfers of files, apps, photos, videos, and contacts at speeds up to 40 times faster than , without requiring cellular data or . Early versions focused on Android compatibility, with preloading on and tablets to promote seamless ecosystem integration. By 2014, Lenovo prominently featured SHAREit at the Mobile World Congress, announcing its availability for free download on Google Play and the Apple App Store, alongside Windows PC support for multi-platform sharing with up to five devices simultaneously. The app's Wi-Fi-based discovery and transfer mechanism gained traction in emerging markets with unreliable networks, accumulating early downloads as Lenovo bundled it on new hardware. Through 2015, it remained under Lenovo's direct development and support, serving as a key tool for device-to-device connectivity before eventual spin-off preparations.

Independence and Global Expansion (2015–Present)

In 2015, SHAREit transitioned from a Lenovo-developed application to an independent entity, establishing SHAREit Technologies Co. Ltd. as a standalone focused on and content sharing. This spin-off allowed the platform to operate autonomously, shifting from Lenovo's hardware ecosystem to a broader software-centric model targeting global markets, particularly in regions with limited . Post-independence, SHAREit prioritized expansion into emerging markets, leveraging its offline file-transfer capabilities to gain traction in areas like , , and the . By 2016, the app had amassed over 500 million global users, with alone accounting for 150 million downloads, driven by viral user-to-user sharing and localization efforts supporting multiple languages. The company's strategy emphasized and non-Google Play distribution channels, achieving top rankings in app stores across 7 overseas markets by late 2015. Global reach accelerated through product diversification and acquisitions, including the 2018 purchase of South Indian OTT platform Fastfilmz, which integrated video streaming to enhance content discovery features. By 2020, SHAREit supported 45 languages and operated in approximately 200 countries, with a user base exceeding 1.8 billion. Revenue grew 220% in the 2021–2022 fiscal year, expanding operations to 150 countries amid a shift toward monetization via in-app purchases and advertising in non-gaming verticals. As of 2023, cumulative installs approached 2.4 billion, positioning SHAREit as a key player in offline-first digital ecosystems despite ongoing scrutiny over data practices tied to its Chinese development roots.

Technical Functionality

Core Transfer Mechanism

SHAREit primarily facilitates file transfers through a (P2P) mechanism that leverages functionality rather than traditional or cellular data connections. In this process, the sending device activates its hardware to generate a temporary access point with an app-specific SSID and password, enabling nearby receiving devices running SHAREit to detect and join this ad-hoc network without requiring an external router or data plan. This approach bypasses 's limitations, achieving transfer rates advertised as up to 42 MB/s under optimal conditions, which is approximately 200 times faster than standard Bluetooth transfers. The connection initiation involves the sender selecting files and entering a "send" mode, which broadcasts the hotspot signal; receivers scan for available SHAREit networks and authenticate via the dynamically generated credentials displayed on the sender's screen. Once paired, data packets are exchanged over the local link using standard TCP/IP protocols optimized by SHAREit's proprietary implementation for minimal latency and maximal throughput, supporting files of any size including videos, apps, and documents. This hotspot-based P2P model ensures transfers occur offline, confined to the devices' proximity (typically within 10-20 meters), and can handle multiple receivers simultaneously by queuing transfers on the sender's hotspot. Transfer speeds depend on hardware capabilities, such as support for 5 GHz bands, which enable higher bandwidth compared to 2.4 GHz, with real-world tests reporting averages around 20 MB/s for large files on compatible Android and devices. Unlike pure , which negotiates direct device links without a hotspot, SHAREit's method relies on one device acting as a soft access point, potentially consuming more battery on the sender but providing broader compatibility across platforms including PCs. Fallback options like are available for initial pairing or low-bandwidth scenarios, but the core mechanism prioritizes for efficiency.

Cross-Platform Compatibility and Protocols

SHAREit enables file transfers across multiple operating systems, including Android, , Windows, and macOS, facilitating seamless sharing between mobile and desktop environments without requiring internet connectivity. This cross-platform support extends to various device types, such as smartphones, tablets, and personal computers, allowing users to exchange files like photos, videos, documents, and applications irrespective of the underlying platform. The core transfer mechanism relies on protocol for connections on Android devices, establishing a direct wireless link that bypasses traditional routers and achieves speeds up to 20 MB/s under optimal conditions. For cross-platform scenarios involving or desktop systems lacking native , SHAREit switches to a hotspot mode, where the sending device creates a temporary Wi-Fi access point to which the receiving device connects, emulating a local network for data exchange. In iOS-to-Android transfers, for instance, the iPhone in sender mode selects files after choosing "Send," generating a QR code or search/hotspot option; the Android receiver selects "Receive," scans the QR code or joins the hotspot, enabling automatic file transfer once paired, with devices maintained within 10 meters and VPNs disabled if connectivity issues arise. This approach ensures compatibility but may introduce slight latency compared to pure links. Device discovery occurs via QR code scanning or manual IP entry in hotspot scenarios, with transfers secured through encrypted local connections, though the exact proprietary layering atop Wi-Fi standards remains undocumented in public specifications. Compatibility checks during pairing verify supported file types and OS versions to prevent transfer failures.

Features and Capabilities

Primary File-Sharing Tools

SHAREit's primary file-sharing tools facilitate peer-to-peer transfers via a local Wi-Fi hotspot created by the sending device, allowing receiving devices to connect without internet access or cellular data usage. This mechanism supports sharing of photos, videos, music files, documents, applications, and contacts across Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS platforms, with compatibility for files up to several gigabytes in size. The process begins with the sender selecting files through categorized tabs—such as images, videos, apps, or a file manager—for intuitive organization and quick access, followed by generating a QR code or hotspot credentials for receivers to scan or join. Transfer speeds reach up to 42 MB/s in optimal conditions, marketed as 200 times faster than , leveraging protocols to bypass traditional network limitations and enable direct device-to-device communication. Real-time progress bars and estimated time remaining are displayed during transfers, with support for pausing and resuming interrupted sessions to handle connectivity fluctuations common in mobile environments. Group sharing extends this capability, allowing one sender to broadcast files simultaneously to multiple connected devices, which proved particularly useful in regions with limited data plans as of the app's peak adoption around 2015–2020. Security in these tools relies on proximity-based connections, theoretically limiting exposure to local networks only, though transfers occur without by default, prioritizing speed over advanced cryptographic measures. Supported protocols ensure broad compatibility, including APKs for Android apps and executables for desktop versions, but exclude DRM-protected content to avoid legal transfer issues.

Integrated Content and Media Services

SHAREit incorporates a built-in media player that supports playback of audio files, including music, and video content stored locally or transferred via the app. This player allows users to access and enjoy media without external applications, integrating seamlessly with the file-sharing interface for quick navigation between transfers and consumption. The feature emphasizes compatibility across transferred formats, enabling playback of common video and audio types like MP4 and directly within the app environment. Beyond local playback, SHAREit provides integrated access to online media content, including short-form videos and trending selections updated regularly for discovery. Users can stream or download high-definition videos and photos directly to their devices, with the app promoting data-free transfers for such content in supported regions. Additional discovery tools include galleries for GIFs, wallpapers, and music recommendations, positioning the app as a hub for multimedia exploration alongside file sharing. These services extend to content consumption without internet reliance for shared media, but online features rely on app-integrated downloader tools for fetching external videos and audio. As of updates in , the platform has evolved to emphasize secure, high-speed media handling, though playback quality depends on device hardware and file integrity post-transfer. This integration aims to combine utility with entertainment, drawing over 18 million user ratings on app stores for its media-related functionalities.

Gaming and Entertainment Extensions

SHAREit extends its core file-sharing functionality into gaming through specialized tools for transferring large game applications and accessing in-app game catalogs. The app's "One Click Transmission" feature enables rapid transfer of bulky game files, such as those for , bypassing the need to re-download extensive cache data, which typically requires significant bandwidth and time. This is particularly useful in regions with limited internet access, allowing users to share fully installed games between devices via . In addition to transfer capabilities, SHAREit integrates a gaming hub offering access to over 2,000 HTML5-based mobile games across genres including casual, hyper-casual, , and action titles. Users receive personalized game recommendations based on preferences, with unlimited offline play supported for many entries, enhancing without data consumption. As of 2021, this catalog positioned SHAREit as a platform for next-generation mobile gaming experiences, particularly in emerging markets like the . For entertainment, SHAREit incorporates video and music streaming services, allowing users to browse and play short-form videos, trending content, and audio files directly within the app interface. Features include seamless of videos and music alongside playback options that support high-resolution content transfer without compression loss during initial exchanges. The app's extensions also facilitate for migrating entertainment libraries, preserving video and audio collections across devices efficiently. These additions transform SHAREit from a mere transfer tool into a multifaceted entertainment ecosystem, though reliance on in-app catalogs may expose users to curated content from partner developers.

Ownership and Corporate Structure

Founders and Headquarters Shifts

SHAREit originated as an internal project developed by employees at Lenovo, a Chinese multinational technology company, in the mid-2010s, initially under the name Eggplant Express for the domestic Chinese market. In 2015, it was spun off into an independent entity, SHAREit Technologies Co., Ltd., founded by Michael Qiu and Jun Qiu, with Michael Qiu serving as CEO. The spin-off reflected a strategic shift from Lenovo's corporate structure to a standalone operation focused on global file-sharing applications. Following the 2015 independence, the company's nominal headquarters were established in , aligning with its registration as a Singapore-based technology firm to facilitate international expansion. However, operational and registered addresses have been documented in , , including at Room 503, 5th Floor, Building 23, No. 8 Courtyard, Northeast Wangxi Road, Haidian District, indicating persistent ties to its Chinese roots despite the Singapore incorporation. No major headquarters relocations have been reported post-2015, though the dual-location references underscore efforts to balance Chinese development heritage with offshore structuring amid geopolitical scrutiny, such as the 2020 Indian ban on Chinese apps.

Ties to Chinese Entities

SHAREit was originally developed by , a Chinese multinational technology company headquartered in with roots in the . The app, part of Lenovo's DOit suite, was first launched in around 2012–2013 and gained popularity for its Wi-Fi-based file transfer capabilities, achieving hundreds of millions of downloads primarily in emerging markets. Ownership of SHAREit was later transferred to Smart Media4U Technology Pte. Ltd., a Singapore-based entity, as a spin-off from Lenovo, with the transition occurring prior to its widespread global adoption. Despite this shift, regulatory actions in multiple countries have treated SHAREit as linked to Chinese entities due to its origins and Lenovo's status as a firm subject to Chinese national intelligence laws, which mandate cooperation with government data requests. In June 2020, India's Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology banned SHAREit alongside 58 other apps deemed "prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity of , defence of , security of state and public order," citing ties to Chinese developers amid border tensions. In January 2021, a U.S. under President Trump prohibited certain transactions with SHAREit and seven other apps, identifying them as "Chinese connected" software applications controlled by entities that develop or maintain them, potentially posing risks through practices. These measures reflect concerns over potential data flows to Chinese servers or access by Chinese authorities, even post-spin-off, as retains historical influence and Chinese firms broadly face scrutiny for opaque ownership structures and compliance with laws like the 2017 National Intelligence Law. No public disclosures indicate direct current ownership by Chinese state entities in Smart Media4U, but the app's foundational development within Lenovo's underscores enduring perceptions of Chinese ties.

Security and Privacy Issues

Documented Vulnerabilities

In 2016, multiple vulnerabilities were identified in SHAREit versions for Windows (before 3.2.0) and Android (before 3.5.48_ww), including CVE-2016-1489, which enabled file transfers in cleartext, allowing remote attackers to intercept content via man-in-the-middle attacks. Additional flaws, such as CVE-2016-1490, CVE-2016-1491, and CVE-2016-1492, permitted unauthorized remote browsing and access without , potentially exposing sensitive data on local networks. acknowledged these issues, recommending updates to mitigate risks of remote code execution and unauthorized downloads on affected Android versions below 3.5.78. By 2019, researchers disclosed high-severity flaws in SHAREit Android versions up to 4.0.38, including CVE-2019-9939, stemming from improper that allowed attackers to spoof devices and gain unrestricted access to files during transfers without user consent. These vulnerabilities bypassed device verification mechanisms, enabling adjacent attackers to steal data over hotspots. In , identified several unpatched vulnerabilities in the SHAREit Android app, including a critical flaw exploitable via crafted network packets to achieve remote code execution, potentially allowing injection, permission tampering, and sensitive such as contacts and photos. Lenovo's advisory confirmed risks of remote code execution and cross-site scripting-like attacks on older Android versions, urging users to update or discontinue use. These issues persisted in apps with over one billion downloads, highlighting inadequate patching. A 2023 independent report detailed a remote code execution in SHAREit, rewarded via bug bounty, involving exploitation of insecure deserialization or similar flaws, though specifics were redacted post-fix. Overall, SHAREit's reliance on ad-hoc Wi-Fi protocols without robust or authentication has repeatedly exposed users to local network threats, with many CVEs linked to unencrypted communications and weak access controls.

Data Handling and Potential Risks

SHAREit requires extensive device permissions, including full access to user storage, media files, camera, , and data, enabling the app to scan and transfer files but also exposing sensitive information to potential misuse. According to its , the app collects such as names, phone numbers, emails, profile information, GPS and IP-based data, log data on usage, and device details including installed apps and network information, alongside non-personal data for operational purposes. This data is used to provide file-sharing services, personalize advertisements and marketing, improve app functionality, and develop new features, with storage occurring on global servers including locations outside the , such as and the , under standard contractual clauses for transfers. Potential risks arise from unpatched vulnerabilities identified in the Android version, which have allowed attackers to leak sensitive user data, execute arbitrary with app permissions, and perform remote execution, affecting over one billion installations as of 2021. These flaws, including authentication bypasses and permission tampering, enable unauthorized file access and without user consent, as reported by researchers who demonstrated exploitation via malicious hotspots or crafted files. SHAREit's policy acknowledges administrative, physical, and electronic security measures but explicitly states no absolute protection against breaches, with shared content potentially interceptable by third parties during transfers. Data sharing practices include disclosure to affiliates, third-party service providers for and ads, and requests as legally required, raising concerns given the company's historical ties to Chinese entities subject to national laws mandating cooperation. International data transfers to non-EEA regions without equivalent protections amplify risks of unauthorized access or , particularly in light of India's 2020 ban on SHAREit citing unsolicited and potential server access by foreign entities. Users have limited recourse, with rights to access, , or erase via [email protected], but exclusions for third-party ad networks mean those entities' practices remain unaddressed, potentially leading to further .

Indian Government Ban (2020)

On June 29, 2020, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) of issued an order under Section 69A of the , banning 59 mobile applications, including SHAREit, for engaging in activities deemed prejudicial to the sovereignty, integrity, defense, and security of . The decision was based on intelligence inputs indicating that these apps, many with ties to Chinese entities, were transmitting users' to unauthorized foreign servers without explicit consent, thereby posing risks to and public order. SHAREit, a file-sharing application popular in for its cross-platform transfer capabilities, was explicitly listed among the banned apps alongside others like , , and . The ban occurred amid escalating border tensions between India and China, particularly following the deadly Galwan Valley clash on June 15, 2020, which heightened concerns over data privacy and potential espionage through Chinese-linked technology. Indian authorities directed app stores such as Google Play and Apple App Store to remove the applications, while internet service providers were instructed to block access to their websites and services within India. SHAREit, which had amassed over 500 million downloads in India by mid-2020 and ranked as one of the top file-sharing tools, faced immediate delisting, disrupting its operations in what was its largest market by user penetration. Subsequent legal challenges by affected companies, including petitions to the Delhi High Court, were largely unsuccessful, with courts upholding the government's emergency powers under the IT Act to protect user data sovereignty. The ban on SHAREit was part of a broader wave of restrictions, with additional rounds targeting 118 and 43 more apps in September and November 2020, respectively, reflecting ongoing scrutiny of apps with opaque data practices and foreign ownership structures. While the government cited empirical evidence from surveillance of data flows, critics noted the lack of public disclosure on specific threats posed by individual apps like SHAREit, though the measures aligned with India's push for digital self-reliance under initiatives like Atmanirbhar Bharat.

Broader International Responses

In January 2021, the government under President issued 13971, prohibiting U.S. persons from engaging in certain transactions with eight Chinese mobile applications, including SHAREit, due to concerns over and potential data collection practices linked to the Chinese government. The order targeted apps deemed to pose undue risks of access by foreign adversaries, but it focused on financial transactions rather than outright app removal from stores, and enforcement waned under the subsequent administration. As of October 2025, SHAREit remains downloadable on major U.S. platforms like the Apple and Store. Other Western governments have not enacted comparable bans or restrictions on SHAREit. In the , no regulatory actions specifically targeting the app have been documented, despite broader scrutiny of Chinese-linked technologies under frameworks like the . Similarly, the and have issued no formal prohibitions, though Australian lawmakers in 2020 called for investigations into Chinese apps amid privacy fears, without resulting in SHAREit-specific measures. Security researchers have highlighted persistent vulnerabilities in SHAREit, such as a remote code execution flaw disclosed by in February 2021, which could enable infection or without user consent; the developer, Smart Media4U Technology Co. Ltd., delayed patching despite over one billion global downloads. These issues, combined with the app's origins in Chinese entities, prompted warnings from cybersecurity firms but elicited no coordinated international governmental responses beyond the limited U.S. order. In regions like and , where SHAREit maintains strong user bases for offline file transfers, adoption has continued without notable regulatory pushback.

Market Impact and Reception

Adoption in Emerging Markets

SHAREit gained significant traction in emerging markets due to its file transfer capabilities via , enabling rapid sharing without cellular data or internet connectivity, which proved advantageous in regions with high data costs and unreliable networks. By 2014, the app had amassed 150 million users in alone, reflecting explosive adoption amid limited . In 2015, SHAREit topped Google Play's tool category charts in 13 countries, including , Bangladesh, the , Uzbekistan, , and , underscoring its appeal in and . The app's user base concentrated heavily in developing regions, with 80-90% of users from , the , and as of 2022. In , which accounted for approximately 20% of global by 2016, SHAREit reached over 100 million users in the first quarter of that year, driven by organic promotion through shared content like videos and apps. Across the (MENA), it boasted over 70 million monthly by 2022, while reported 20 million monthly and 40 million in . Emerging markets such as the (97.5% user penetration in related mobile app metrics), (97%), and (97.7%) ranked among the highest for app engagement, where SHAREit's offline functionality addressed bandwidth constraints prevalent in these areas. Globally, SHAREit achieved 2.4 billion downloads by 2023, with sustained popularity in low-infrastructure zones facilitating content discovery and gaming without data dependency. This adoption pattern highlights the app's utility in bridging digital divides, though growth tapered in markets like following the 2020 regulatory ban.

User Metrics and Criticisms

SHAREit has garnered substantial user adoption, particularly in emerging markets, with the app claiming over 2 billion installs worldwide as of 2025. On , it holds a 4.3-star rating from more than 18 million reviews, reflecting broad appeal for its data-free transfer capabilities. The iOS version fares similarly, with a 4.6-star rating from approximately 144,000 reviews on the . Year-to-date downloads in 2024 reached an estimated 321 million globally, positioning it among top file-sharing apps despite regulatory hurdles. Prior to its 2020 ban in —a market where it once boasted 150 million users—SHAREit reported over 1.8 billion global users and 70 million monthly active users in the alone. Post-ban, adoption shifted toward regions like and , with recent estimates indicating around 1.3 million daily active users and 700,000 monthly downloads. These figures underscore its persistence in low-bandwidth environments but highlight a contraction from peak popularity, as alternative apps filled voids in restricted markets. User criticisms frequently center on intrusive advertising in the free version, including persistent pop-ups and video ads that disrupt transfers. Many reviews report scam-like notifications and fake news prompts, eroding trust despite the app's core functionality. Connectivity issues, such as complicated device pairing and occasional transfer failures, are common complaints, particularly on newer OS versions. While praised for speed in offline scenarios, aggregated review sites like MouthShut note slowdowns and ad overload, averaging 3.9 stars from thousands of user submissions. TechRadar echoed these concerns in a 2020 assessment, rating it 3 out of 5 for balancing utility against usability drawbacks.

Comparisons with Competitors

SHAREit primarily competes with other file transfer apps leveraging technology, such as Xender and , which achieve similar maximum speeds of approximately 20 MB/s—up to 200 times faster than —enabling offline transfers of large files like videos without cellular data usage. These competitors, like SHAREit, support cross-platform compatibility across Android, , and PC, but SHAREit distinguishes itself with integrated tools such as a built-in media player and remote PPT control, though users often report excessive ads and bloatware in all three apps as common drawbacks. In contrast, native alternatives like Apple's prioritize and seamless integration within the iOS/macOS ecosystem but restrict transfers to Apple devices only, limiting broader . For iOS users seeking cross-platform free alternatives in 2025–2026, options include LocalSend, an open-source, ad-free app for secure offline file sharing over local Wi-Fi supporting iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, and Linux; Send Anywhere for peer-to-peer real-time transfers; and Xender for fast wireless transfers between phones and PCs, all enabling nearby transfers without internet similar to SHAREit. Security profiles differ markedly: SHAREit and its close rivals Xender and , developed by Chinese firms, have faced scrutiny for inadequate encryption and potential risks, with evaluations scoring SHAREit lower in safeguards compared to non-Chinese options like Send Anywhere, which uses 256-bit AES encryption and temporary transfer codes. Google's (now Quick Share) and Files by Google app offer ad-free, integrated experiences with enhanced controls tied to Android's ecosystem, gaining traction post-2020 bans on SHAREit in , where users cited fewer connection issues and no concerns.
AppMax Transfer SpeedPlatform SupportSecurity FeaturesUser-Reported AdvantagesDrawbacks
SHAREit~20 MB/sAndroid, , WindowsBasic ; no standard E2ECross-platform speed, no internetAds, risks, bloatware
Xender~20 MB/sAndroid, , WindowsSimilar to SHAREit; optional codesReliable connectionsFrequent ads, similar security gaps
Zapya~20 MB/sAndroid, , WindowsGroup sharing; minimal encryptionSocial features, user-friendly UIAds, potential data logging
AirDropDevice-dependent onlySeamless, secure for Apple usersNo cross-platform; Apple-only
Quick Share~10-20 MB/sAndroid, Chrome OS integration, E2EAd-free, native Android integrationLimited to Google devices initially
Post-ban analyses in emerging markets highlight a shift toward ecosystem-native tools, with Files by Google and SuperBeam praised for avoiding the telemetry and ad intrusions prevalent in SHAREit-like apps, though they may lag in raw speed for very large files without Wi-Fi Direct optimization. Overall, while SHAREit leads in unadulterated transfer velocity, competitors emphasizing security and minimalism—such as Send Anywhere or Quick Share—have eroded its market share amid heightened privacy awareness since 2020.

Recent Updates and Evolution

Feature Enhancements (2024–2025)

In 2024, SHAREit introduced enhancements to its cross-device transfer capabilities, including streamlined between mobile devices and PCs, with reported improvements in speed and ease of use. This update facilitated quicker synchronization without relying on connectivity, leveraging for transfers up to 200 times faster than . A notable addition was the phone migration function, enabling users to transfer comprehensive data sets—such as contacts, apps, videos, , , recordings, and documents—from an old device to a new one in a single operation. This feature addressed common user needs during device upgrades, reducing manual effort and potential . By early 2025, updates focused on minor optimizations, including bug fixes for connection stability and compatibility with newer operating systems like and iOS 17. The October 21, 2025, release (version 6.52.88_HWI) emphasized incremental improvements in transfer reliability, though no major architectural overhauls were documented. For the PC variant, enhancements included an updated with intuitive icons and buttons, alongside reinforced for secure transfers, responding to ongoing concerns over data handling in sharing. These changes aimed to broaden compatibility across and without introducing new vulnerabilities.

Ongoing Viability Amid Scrutiny

Despite the 2020 ban in , which affected an estimated 400 million users there, SHAREit has sustained global operations through app store availability and software updates as of 2025. The application remains listed on with over 18 million ratings and on the Apple App Store with 144,000 ratings, reporting transfers trusted by more than 2 billion users worldwide. A January 2025 update introduced enhancements for faster transfers, improved security protocols, and intuitive interfaces, indicating active development amid competitive pressures. Security vulnerabilities continue to fuel scrutiny, with reports from 2021 identifying flaws enabling remote execution, man-in-the-middle attacks, and unauthorized file access on Android and Windows versions. , associated with the app's ecosystem, issued advisories on unpatched risks like denial-of-service and browsing, though no major exploits have been publicly confirmed post-2021. These issues, linked to the app's Wi-Fi Direct mechanism bypassing cellular data, have prompted recommendations for alternatives in risk-averse environments, yet empirical download persistence—appearing in 2025 rankings of popular apps—suggests user tolerance for speed over fortified safeguards in low-bandwidth regions. Regulatory hurdles beyond , including data privacy probes tied to Chinese developer origins, have not halted international viability, as evidenced by ongoing APK distributions and cross-platform compatibility. In non-banned markets, SHAREit competes via zero-data transfers at speeds up to 42 MB/s, retaining appeal where infrastructure limits cloud-based rivals. However, sustained credibility challenges from institutional reports—contrasting self-reported safety claims—may constrain expansion, with user metrics showing stable but not surging adoption outside holdouts.

References

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  2. https://apps.apple.com/us/app/shareit-transfer-share-files/id725215120
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  14. https://support.lenovo.com/us/en/solutions/ht503944-lenovo-shareit-application-end-of-lenovo-support
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  20. https://stackoverflow.com/questions/27884334/how-the-shareit-android-application-works-technically
  21. https://android.stackexchange.com/questions/169322/how-does-share-it-application-use-our-information
  22. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lenovo.anyshare.gps&hl=en_AU
  23. https://www.quora.com/How-does-SHAREit-work
  24. https://www.ushareit.com/help/
  25. https://www.quora.com/How-does-the-SHAREit-app-transfer-data-and-what-technology-does-it-use-to-do-so
  26. https://shareit.onl/
  27. https://www.quora.com/What-technology-does-the-app-ShareIt-use
  28. https://www.mobikin.com/mobile-phone/xender-vs-shareit.html
  29. https://www.ask.com/news/top-features-shareit-computer-users
  30. https://shareit.en.softonic.com/iphone
  31. https://shareit.onl/terms/
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  33. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=shareit.lite
  34. https://teleread.com/how-to-use-shareit-for-superfast-file-transfer/index.html
  35. https://shareit.onl/blog/shareit-business-file-sharing/
  36. https://shareit.en.softonic.com/android
  37. https://shareit.en.divxland.org/
  38. https://shareit.en.softmany.com/windows/download
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  40. https://www.techradar.com/reviews/shareit-file-transfer-app-review
  41. https://shareit.en.softonic.com/
  42. https://thefintechtimes.com/shareit-is-reimagining-mobile-gaming-experiences-across-the-middle-east/
  43. https://www.teamasia.com/shareit-connecting-users-around-the-world-with-large-catalogues-of-mobile-games/
  44. https://www.dubairoute.com/article/shareit-provides-players-with-next-gen-features-and-thousands-of-games
  45. https://tracxn.com/d/companies/shareit/__wWw0mhTCRd8HCSeZnK_8Ppk2pK4lzwF0h2WvSDn4FPM
  46. https://pitchbook.com/profiles/company/228468-52
  47. https://restofworld.org/2023/chinese-apps-succeeding-overseas/
  48. https://www.quora.com/Was-the-SHAREit-app-developed-by-Lenovo-or-acquired
  49. https://www.bbc.com/news/business-55555269
  50. https://www.wita.org/blogs/national-security-executive-order/
  51. https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2016-1489
  52. https://www.coresecurity.com/core-labs/advisories/lenovo-shareit-multiple-vulnerabilities
  53. https://support.lenovo.com/us/en/product_security/ps500020-shareit-for-windows-and-android-vulnerabilities
  54. https://blog.redforce.io/shareit-vulnerabilities-enable-unrestricted-access-to-adjacent-devices-files/
  55. https://www.trendmicro.com/en_us/research/21/b/shareit-flaw-could-lead-to-remote-code-execution.html
  56. https://support.lenovo.com/us/en/solutions/ps500036-shareit-for-android-vulnerabilities
  57. https://thehackernews.com/2021/02/unpatched-shareit-android-app-flaw.html
  58. https://infosecwriteups.com/how-did-i-found-rce-on-shareit-which-rewarded-bounty-7d4196bf1b52
  59. https://www.cvedetails.com/product/74214/Ushareit-Shareit.html?vendor_id=22189
  60. https://www.securedata.com/blog/shareit-app-puts-android-users-at-risk
  61. https://cdn.ushareit.com/shareit/w/privacy/pr_en/index.html
  62. https://www.spiceworks.com/it-security/application-security/news/unpatched-flaws-in-shareit-android-app-exposing-millions-to-cyber-threats/
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  64. https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=1635206
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  67. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/india-bans-tiktok-other-china-made-apps-as-border-dispute-drags-on-today-2020-06-30/
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