Summary created by Smart Answers AI
In summary:
- Macworld reports that Samsung’s Galaxy S26 series is receiving AirDrop support through Android Quick Share, enabling direct file sharing with iPhones.
- This cross-platform compatibility works with AirDrop’s ‘Everyone for 10 minutes’ mode and includes security features like Apple’s new PIN system from iOS 26.2.
- The development significantly improves file sharing between iPhone and Samsung users, with Google emphasizing rigorous security standards for safe transfers.
Following the surprising rollout of AirDrop support on Pixel phones by Google late last year, Samsung has announced that AirDrop support is coming to Galaxy phones too. The feature, which will work through Android Quick Share, will roll out to Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra phones this week and additional models at a later date.
Like on Pixel phones, the feature will be off by default, and only works with AirDrop’s “Everyone for 10 minutes” sharing mode. This setting on iPhones allows all nearby Apple devices using AirDrop to communicate with your device for 10 minutes before reverting to “Contacts Only.” As with unknown iPhones, the user will need to select this option before receiving files from a Samsung phone. But otherwise, it will work in the same way, delivering documents and images wirelessly when the recipient accepts.
While the feature isn’t a workaround, it’s also not officially supported by Apple. It relies on a technical loophole that allows AirDrop to function as a generic peer-to-peer network for a short time.
While Apple could block the ability for Android phones to communicate with iPhones this way, that doesn’t seem likely. In the iOS 26.2 update in December, Apple seemingly gave the feature tacit approval by adding an additional layer of security when using AirDrop with someone who isn’t in your contacts list. AirDrop will show a PIN code similar to Apple TV pairing, which will allow the devices to communicate for 30 days before asking again.
Besides, Google says the feature was built “with the same rigorous security standards that we apply to all Google products” and is “just the first step in seamless cross-platform sharing.” So iPhone users shouldn’t have to worry about any risks.
So if you’re a Samsung user among a sea of iPhones, you’ll soon be able to easily share pictures and other files. But only if you ask first.
