Android may soon get an AirDrop-like Tap to Share feature

Google is working on a new feature, Tap to Share, that could make sharing files between Android phones much easier. The feature has not been officially announced, but new code found in Google Play Services v26.30.31 gives us a preview of what Google is working on.

Right now, Android users need to tap the Share button, choose Quick Share, and then select the other phone to send a file. With Tap to Share, this extra step may no longer be needed.

Instead, users can tap the Share button and simply bring their Android phone close to another Android phone. The file transfer will start automatically without opening Quick Share first. This makes the process faster and easier.

Image via Android Authority

The feature is similar to Apple’s AirDrop on iPhones. AirDrop also lets users start sharing by opening the Share menu and bringing two phones close together. Google appears to be bringing a similar experience to Android devices.

Image via Android Authority

The latest code also shows that Google is adding a setting to turn Tap to Share on or off. Users who do not want to use this feature can disable it and continue sharing files with the regular Quick Share option.

Google has not announced when Tap to Share will be released. Since it is still being tested, the final version could be different.