Android can now tap to share for contact info, photos, and more - which phones get it first

Kyle Kucharski/ZDNET

ZDNET's key takeaways

• Google introduced a tap to share feature for Android. 
• The feature is coming to Pixel devices first (the 6 and newer).
• Samsung devices will be next, other devices by the end of 2026.

Android users are getting a new way to easily share contact info, files, media, and more.

In addition to rolling out several new devices at its annual Made by Google event, the company has announced an expansion of Quick Share that includes the ability to tap two phones together to send files or information.

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If you're a long-term Android user, you'll remember Android Beam that debuted in 2011 but only stuck around for about six years. This feature, which is essentially an Android version of Apple's Air Drop, resurrects Beam in a modern way.

While this is a part of the existing Quick Share infrastructure, it's a lot quicker and simpler than the current method (it does require you to be within touching distance rather than working over a short distance like across a rom via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi). 

How to use Android Tap to Share

Here's how the feature works: 

To tap and share contact information:

• Both devices must have Quick Share and NFC enabled.
• Overlap the top of both phones (both must be unlocked) with their screens up.
• Keep phones together until they light up.
• Choose which contact information fields you want to share (you can also choose to just receive the other person's information). 
• When you receive the contact card, save it to your contacts. 
• If you want to cancel, separate the devices.

To tap and share files, photos and videos, links and more:

• Both devices must have Quick Share and NFC enabled.
• Open the Quick Share page and choose the content that you want to share.
• Overlap the top of both phones (both must be unlocked) with their screens up.
• Keep phones together until they light up.
• If you want to cancel, separate the devices.

Google notes that thick phone cases may inhibit this process, and you might need to remove your phone from its case if you can't send or receive a transfer. You can find any content you receive via Tap to Share in a dedicated Quick Share folder. To find this, open your Files app and tap Downloads.

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The feature is rolling out now on Pixel devices running Android 17 and higher, Google says, starting with the Pixel 6 and newer. It's coming soon to Samsung devices, starting with the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold, the 8 Ultra, the Fold 8, and the Flip 8. Tap to share will expand to more Android devices by the end of 2026.