While the eternal back and forth about Android features vs. Apple features rages on, there’s a new victory for Android. Google has announced Tap to Share for Android devices, starting with the Pixel.
Tap–to-share is an update to Quick Share that lets people tap to send contact information, photos, videos, links, location, and more. The addition is much like Apple’s AirDrop.
On Reddit, Mishaal Rahman, community engagement manager for Android, said, “[T]ap to share also works on the home screen and when the Android Share Sheet is open, even when you haven’t yet selected Quick Share.”
Seamless sharing, but some adjustments might be necessary
Tap to share is designed to be seamless, but if there are any hiccups, Google has some advice.
Both devices need to have NFC turned on and it helps to know where the NFC antenna is on each of them to know where to tap. The Pixel 11, which was introduced just yesterday by Google, has its antenna at the top of the phone specifically to make Tap to Share and mobile payments easier.
If you’re not sure of where the antennae are, you can overlap the phone screens or try tapping both phones back to back.
Thick phone cases can get in the way, so you may have to remove them.
Pixels first, others to follow
Pixel 6 and newer devices that are running Android 17 or higher are the first to get Tap to Share, with it rolling out now.
Google said the feature is coming soon to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, Fold 8, and Flip 8. Other Android devices will get it by the end of the year.
