Google Confirms Samsung Galaxy Devices Set for AirDrop Support via Quick Share

The wall between Android and iOS is finally crumbling as file sharing becomes more seamless than ever. Earlier this year, Samsung made waves by introducing AirDrop compatibility within Quick Share for the Galaxy S26 series, enabling users to send files directly to Apple devices without third-party apps. While Google’s Pixel 10 was the pioneer for this cross-platform integration, the feature is now expanding rapidly across the Samsung Galaxy ecosystem, promising a future where platform boundaries no longer hinder productivity.

Google recently shared exciting news during "The Android Show | I/O Edition (2026)." Alanna Veiga, a Product Manager on Google’s Android team, confirmed that AirDrop support via Quick Share is expanding to a broader range of flagship Samsung phones. This update is a significant milestone for users who operate in multi-platform environments, such as using a Galaxy phone alongside an iPad or MacBook.

Official List of Supported Samsung Galaxy Devices

The rollout of AirDrop compatibility is strategic, focusing on Samsung's most powerful hardware. Below is the comprehensive list of devices confirmed to receive or already supporting the feature through the One UI 8.5 update:

While this list covers the latest flagship models, notable absences include the Galaxy S23 series and older foldables like the Z Flip 5 and Z Fold 5. Additionally, mid-range and budget series such as the Galaxy A, M, and F series are currently not on the roadmap, nor are the Galaxy Tab S tablets.

The Technology Behind Cross-Platform Sharing

Many users wonder why this feature isn't available on every Android device. The answer lies in the complexity of the hardware. AirDrop compatibility is not just a software patch; it requires specific chipset-level optimizations to mimic Apple’s Apple Wireless Direct Link (AWDL). AWDL is a proprietary peer-to-peer protocol that allows Apple devices to communicate directly.

Google achieved this by reverse-engineering the protocol using Rust—a memory-safe programming language—to ensure the connection is secure and efficient. This allows Quick Share to "speak" the same language as AirDrop, facilitating high-speed transfers without the need for an internet connection or external servers.

Can I use AirDrop on my Galaxy S23 or older models?

Currently, the Galaxy S23 series is not included in the official support list. This is likely due to the specific networking hardware and chipset requirements needed to support the AWDL protocol used by Apple devices. While software updates can bridge many gaps, this particular feature relies heavily on hardware-level optimizations.

Is file sharing between Android and iPhone secure?

Yes, the integration uses a secure, memory-safe networking protocol. The transfer happens over a direct peer-to-peer connection, meaning your data is encrypted and does not pass through any external or intermediate servers during the process.

Will Samsung's mid-range Galaxy A series eventually get this feature?

It is currently unlikely for older mid-range models. However, future high-end entries in the Galaxy A series might receive support if they are equipped with the necessary modern chipsets and networking components required for Apple Wireless Direct Link compatibility.

Does this require an internet connection?

No. Just like standard AirDrop or Quick Share, this feature uses Bluetooth for discovery and a direct Wi-Fi connection for the actual data transfer. You do not need a data plan or a local Wi-Fi network to share files between devices.

🔎 The arrival of AirDrop support on Samsung Galaxy devices marks a turning point in mobile technology, prioritizing user convenience over platform exclusivity. By bridging the gap between Android and iOS, Samsung and Google are making it easier for creators, professionals, and casual users to share their digital lives. As hardware continues to evolve, we can only hope that this seamless connectivity eventually reaches every pocket, regardless of the brand on the back of the phone.