Android can now tap to share for contact info, photos, and more - which phones get it first

Kyle Kucharski/ZDNET

ZDNET's key takeaways

Google introduced a tap to share feature for Android.

The feature is coming to Pixel devices first (the 6 and newer).

Samsung devices will be next, other devices by the end of 2026.

Android users are getting a new way to easily share contact info, files, media, and more.

In addition to rolling out several new devices at its annual Made by Google event, the company has announced an expansion of Quick Share that includes the ability to tap two phones together to send files or information.

Also: The Pixel Tag is Google's $29 AirTag alternative - with one big advantage

If you're a long-term Android user, you'll remember Android Beam that debuted in 2011 but only stuck around for about six years. This feature, which is essentially an Android version of Apple's Air Drop, resurrects Beam in a modern way.

While this is a part of the existing Quick Share infrastructure, it's a lot quicker and simpler than the current method (it does require you to be within touching distance rather than working over a short distance like across a rom via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi).

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