Google working on Tap To Share feature to let Android phones instantly share files like iPhone

Google is reportedly working on a new "Tap to Share" feature that lets Android users instantly share files and contacts just by bringing two phones together.

In Short

• Google is working on a tap to share feature for Android users
• The feature will allow users to instantly share files and contacts by tapping phones
• Tap to share requires unlocked phones with overlapping top edges

Google is reportedly developing a new feature called “Tap to Share” that could simplify how Android users exchange files and contact details. The feature is said to be similar to the iPhone’s NameDrop-style sharing tool, allowing users to transfer data simply by bringing two smartphones together, without the need of manual share selection.

The feature was first reported by Android Authority, which uncovered it by digging into Google Play Services code, with inputs from tipster AssembleDebug. The feature in Android is expected to support a wide range of content, including contacts, photos, videos, links, and even location data.

How tap to share will work

Based on early details and leaked UI elements, the tap-to-share feature in Android is reportedly designed to be simple and user-friendly.

To use the feature both the Android devices will need to be unlocked before initiating the transfer. Users will then place the phones close together, typically by overlapping their top edges or placing them screen-to-screen, similar to how the feature works on iPhones.

Once aligned, a soft glow animation appears across the display, confirming that the devices have successfully connected and that the transfer is underway. This visual cue plays an important role in reassuring users that the process has started.

If the connection fails, users may need to try an alternative positioning method, such as placing the phones back-to-back. This extra step is likely necessary because, unlike iPhones, Android devices have varying NFC antenna placements depending on the manufacturer. The overlap approach increases the chances of proper alignment between devices.

Under the hood, the feature uses NFC to establish the initial connection between the two phones. However, for larger files such as videos or multiple images, the transfer is expected to switch to faster methods like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to ensure speed and efficiency.

Built on existing Android sharing

The report notes that Tap to Share is not being built from scratch. Instead, it is expected to integrate with Android’s existing share sheet and likely work alongside Quick Share, Google’s current file-sharing system.

The feature also appears to include a customisable contact-sharing interface. Early versions spotted on Samsung devices show a simple menu where users can choose what details to share, such as a phone number, email address, or profile photo. This adds an extra layer of control and privacy.

When to expect the new feature

Google has not officially announced Tap to Share yet, and the feature is still under development. However, based on its current state and integration within system components, it is widely expected to debut with Android 17 later this year.

Some early versions of the feature have reportedly been spotted on select Samsung devices running experimental software, indicating that rollout preparations may already be underway. Other manufacturers are also likely to adopt similar capabilities once the feature becomes part of the core Android experience.

- Ends