Samsung and Google will show how to send files in Android with a simple tap—like AirDrop.

Short summary

According to data gathered in the Samsung One UI 9 code, Google Play Services and Android 17, Android devices will soon have a “Tap to share” feature – an Apple AirDrop equivalent. It will work via a simple touch or proximity of two smartphones and become part of a broader Quick Share system.

1. What is already known
Source Function How it was discovered One UI 8.5 (September 2025) NFC file exchange in the experimental “Lab” section Animation showing transfer when devices are close One UI 9 (prototypes) “Tap to share” – file transfer by bringing the top of one phone near another Text description in code Google Play Services (November 2025) Contact exchange via proximity, similar to Apple NameDrop Gesture Exchange feature in the app Android 17 / Canary System service *TapToShare* Mentions in beta versions and Canary builds

2. How it works
- The new system service `TapToShare` will operate at the Android OS level, with part of its logic handled by Google Play Services.
- When two devices are brought close together (or simply touched on the screen), file/contact sharing automatically opens.
- In One UI 9 this capability is already integrated into Quick Share; earlier versions were limited to contact transfer only, but it is now planned to expand to files.

3. What this means for users
1. Cross‑device compatibility – the feature will be available not just on Samsung devices but on any Android device that supports the system.
2. Convenience – sharing happens with a single tap or when phones are close together, without needing to open a “Share” menu.
3. Integration into Quick Share – users already know this app, and the new feature will become its natural extension.

4. Conclusion
Samsung and Google are actively implementing touch‑based data transfer technology within Quick Share. When Android 17 is officially released, users can expect to quickly send files or contacts with a single tap, similar to AirDrop on iOS.