Samsung has introduced cross-platform file sharing for its Galaxy S26 series, enabling seamless transfers between Android devices and Apple products like iPhones and iPads without third-party apps.
In a major step toward improving device interoperability, Samsung has rolled out support for Android Quick Share and Apple AirDrop compatibility on its Galaxy S26 series in India. This feature allows users to send files directly from Android devices to Apple devices such as iPhones, iPads, and Macs.
The rollout began on March 23 in South Korea and is now expanding globally, including India. With this development, Samsung aims to break long-standing barriers between Android and Apple ecosystems, offering users a more flexible and seamless sharing experience.
The new functionality enables Galaxy S26 users to share files with Apple devices in a manner similar to Apple’s AirDrop system. The process is simple, fast, and does not require any internet connection.
The file transfer occurs via a direct peer-to-peer connection using Bluetooth and Wi-Fi technologies. This ensures that data is shared securely without passing through external servers. According to Samsung, the system does not log shared content or expose additional user data, making it both private and efficient.
Currently, the feature is available exclusively on the Galaxy S26 series. However, Samsung has confirmed plans to expand this capability to more devices in the future.
The rollout is being implemented in phases across various regions. After South Korea and India, the feature is expected to reach markets such as Europe, Japan, North America, Southeast Asia, and Latin America. Availability may vary depending on region and device compatibility.
To successfully transfer files between Android and Apple devices, certain settings must be enabled on both ends.
On Apple devices, users need to set AirDrop visibility to “Everyone for 10 minutes.” This temporary setting allows nearby devices to detect and connect for file sharing.
On Samsung Galaxy devices, users must manually enable a specific option within Quick Share settings called “Share with Apple devices.” Unlike some Android devices where this feature is enabled by default, Galaxy users need to activate it before initiating transfers.
Here’s how users can send files from a Galaxy S26 device to an iPhone, iPad, or Mac:
Ensure Quick Share is updated via the Google Play Store and the device is running the latest software.
On the Apple device, enable AirDrop and set it to “Everyone for 10 minutes.”
On the Galaxy device, select the file or photo to be shared.
Tap the Share option and choose Quick Share.
Select the nearby Apple device from the list.
The Apple user must accept the transfer request to begin sharing.
This straightforward process ensures smooth communication between devices from different ecosystems.
The feature also supports file transfers in the opposite direction. Here’s how users can send files from Apple devices to Galaxy phones:
On the Galaxy device, enable Quick Share and set visibility to “Everyone for 10 minutes.”
On the Apple device, select the file and tap the Share button.
Choose AirDrop from the sharing options.
Select the Galaxy device from the available list.
This bidirectional functionality ensures convenience for users regardless of the device they are using.
Unlike some Android devices, this feature is not automatically enabled on Samsung Galaxy phones. Users must manually activate the “Share with Apple devices” option within Quick Share settings.
This additional step ensures that users have control over their device’s visibility and security while sharing files across platforms.
Samsung is not the first to introduce this feature. Google initially brought AirDrop-like functionality to its Pixel devices, starting with the Pixel 10 series and later extending it to the Pixel 9 lineup.
With Samsung joining the initiative, cross-platform file sharing is becoming a broader trend within the Android ecosystem.
Several other technology companies are also working to enable similar interoperability. Nothing has confirmed plans to support Quick Share compatibility with Apple devices.
Chipmaker Qualcomm has also announced that Android smartphones powered by Snapdragon processors will soon support cross-platform sharing features.
Additionally, OPPO has revealed that its upcoming Find X9 series will include support for this functionality.
The introduction of cross-platform file sharing marks a significant shift in the smartphone industry. For years, Android and Apple ecosystems have remained largely separate, limiting direct communication between devices.
With features like Quick Share and AirDrop interoperability, users can now enjoy a more unified experience. This development reduces dependency on third-party apps and simplifies everyday tasks like sharing photos, videos, and documents.
For users in India and beyond, this feature offers greater convenience, speed, and flexibility. Whether sharing files between friends, colleagues, or devices, the process becomes faster and more intuitive.
It also enhances productivity by eliminating compatibility barriers, making collaboration across different platforms easier than ever.