Google has expanded its Quick Share feature with a new “Tap to Share” capability designed to simplify wireless data transfer between Android devices. Initially launching on select Google Pixel models, the proximity-based feature allows users to exchange contact cards, media files, links, and locations by physically bringing two compatible phones together.
Technical Requirements and Setup
Tap to Share is enabled by default on supported non-managed devices. Users can adjust their preferences or disable the feature at any time through Quick Share settings by toggling “Tap to share.”
To use the feature, both devices must meet the following criteria:
- Unlocked and running Android 17 or higher.
- Screens facing up and visible to the users.
- Physical proximity (overlapping the top portion of both handsets).
How Tap to Share Operates
1. Swapping Contact Information
When both devices are unlocked and positioned on their home screens, placing the top edges near each other initiates a two-way contact exchange.
- Bring the tops of both unlocked phones together until a glow effect appears on the screens.
- Select which fields from your contact card to include, or opt to receive the other person’s card without sending yours.
- Choose whether to save the incoming details directly to the Contacts app.
- To cancel at any time, separate the two devices.
2. Sharing Photos, Videos, and Files
Content sharing integrates directly into the standard Android system Share Sheet.
- Open the file, photo, video, link, or location to share.
- Select Share.
- Place the tops of both unlocked devices together until they glow.
- Wait for the receiving device to accept the incoming transfer request.
Device Compatibility and Availability
The feature is currently rolling out to Pixel 6 and newer devices running Android 17 or higher. Google plans to extend support to additional hardware in the coming months:
- Upcoming Support: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Z Fold8, and Z Flip8.
- Broader Expansion: Wider availability across eligible Android 17+ devices by the end of the year.
Limitations: Tap to Share is disabled for apps operating within an Android Work Profile and on enterprise-managed accounts by default.