Google says the new Quick Share feature is an "instant, two-way exchange" for sharing.<\/p>\n
If you have an Android device and FOMO around Apple\u2019s AirDrop, the wait for a similar feature that lets you physically tap phones together to send files and contact cards is over.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Google\u2019s Quick Share now has a tap-to-share feature that lets you do the same motion to swap files between phones. The company unveiled the update during Wednesday\u2019s Made by Google event alongside several new products, including the Pixel Watch 5 and Pixel 11.\u00a0Best of all, this feature is coming to older Pixels, too \u2014 and even other Android phones.<\/p>\n
Quick Share is pretty similar to AirDrop. Both features let you share files, photos and contact information. And Quick Share on supported Android devices\u00a0can work with Apple\u2019s AirDrop\u00a0\u2014 which can be convenient if you\u2019re sharing photos with a friend who has an iPhone.\u00a0<\/p>\n
The tap-to-share change now means you can share files, photos and contact information when you\u2019re on your home screen. You\u2019ll bring the two devices together, and you can immediately hit a button to share contact info with the other person. You\u2019ll need to open your phone\u2019s Share Sheet before tapping the devices together if you want to share photos and videos.\u00a0<\/p>\n
The tap-to-share feature is available now for Pixel 6 and newer models. Google says to expect Samsung\u2019s Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, Fold 8 and Flip 8 to get the feature soon. More devices could see it toward the end of the year.\u00a0<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re having trouble using the tap to share feature, Google\u2019s Help Center has a few recommendations, like overlapping the phone screens more, tapping both phones back to back and removing thick phone cases.<\/p>\n