Google's Tap to Share Turns Quick Share Into a NameDrop-Like Experience on Pixel Phones

Google has started rolling out its new Tap to Share feature to Pixel 6 and newer smartphones. Announced alongside the Google Pixel 11 launch, the feature is an extension of Quick Share and is similar to Apple's NameDrop feature, allowing users to transfer files and contact information by bringing two Android phones close together.

Android Community Manager Mishaal Rahman announced the feature ahead of the Pixel 11 series' launch. A video shared by Mishaal on X showcases the feature in action, where two Pixels are brought closer to each other to trigger an animation.

Image Credit: X/ @MishaalRahman

Image Credit: X/ @MishaalRahman

Image Credit: X/ @MishaalRahman

By default, bringing two supported Pixel phones together appears to prompt users to share their contact information. However, Tap to Share can also be used to kick-start a regular Quick Share transfer.

For example, when a phone has a photo selected with the Android Share Sheet open, bringing it close to another compatible device triggers the Quick Share interface and sends the image to the other phone.

The same process can be used to share photos, videos and web links. In other words, users don't have to manually find the recipient in the Quick Share interface and can simply open the Share Sheet and bring the two phones together to initiate the transfer.

Android share sheet with Tap to Share in action

Image Credit: X/ @MishaalRahman

Android share sheet with Tap to Share in action 2

Image Credit: X/ @MishaalRahman

Google says Tap to Share is enabled by default on eligible non-managed devices, although users can disable it at any time through the Quick Share settings.

Currently, the feature is rolling out for the Google Pixel 6 and newer Pixel phones. However, Google has confirmed that Tap to Share will next arrive on Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Flip 8.

A broader expansion will follow on all Android 17 eligible devices, followed by smartphones on older Android versions. This could happen later down the line, toward the end of 2026.

This reminds us of when Android Beam was a thing and was way ahead of its time. It was introduced in 2011 before Google conveniently decided to kill it in 2011. Like Android Beam, Tap to Share also uses NFC (Near Field Communication).