GOOGLE has begun rolling out new Android feature that makes it easier to share photos, videos and files with friends.
The feature is called Quick Share, and closely resembles Apple AirDrop that is used on iPhones.
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Quick Share has been available to Samsung owners since 2022.
But owners of Google Pixel handsets had been missing out on Quick Share – until now.
Google announced it would start the roll out of Quick Share at CES 2024 in January.
The move is essentially a rebrand, that sees Google bring the Samsung feature under the wider Android umbrella.
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Android is the operating system that is shared by all Google and Samsung phones.
Previously, Android users were using a feature called Nearby Share – which doesn’t quite have the same ring to it.
Despite having a less catchy name, it more-or-less did the same thing: wirelessly transfer files from one phone to another.
But just like AirDrop, Quick Share (and Nearby Share) only work when devices are close together.
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How to use Quick Share
To use Quick Share, you must first make sure your device is updated to the latest software and has Wi-Fi switched on.
Step 1. Make sure the Quick Share feature is turned on for both phones.
To turn it on, open the notification panel, swipe downwards, and then tap Quick Share to activate it. It will appear blue when it’s activated.
If the Quick Share icon does not appear in your Quick settings panel, you may need to add it.
Step 2. Launch the Gallery app and select an image.
Tap the Share button and select a device to transfer the image. Accept the file transfer request on the other device.
Step 3. If you’re having trouble connecting to another device, swipe down from the top of your screen to open Quick Settings, and then touch and hold the Quick Share icon.
Tap the switch next to “Show my position to others” to let nearby devices see your device when they are using Quick Share.
This option will only show if Quick Share is enabled.
The “Show my position to others” option is only available on select models.
If you are unable to locate your device ensure you have enabled your phone or tablet visibility.
To enable this setting head into your Settings > Connections > toggle on Phone Visibility.
It’s important to note: you can only share files with up to five devices at once.
It’s unclear when every Google Pixel owner will see the rebrand on their handset.
Google said the launch would begin in February.
But reports suggest that the feature is already appearing on some phones.
