Key Highlights:

• Samsung begins rolling out AirDrop support over Quick Share on Galaxy S26 devices from March 23.
• More Galaxy devices are expected to receive support later.
• The feature allows file sharing between Galaxy phones and iPhones.
• Rollout starts in Korea, followed by the US and other global regions.

Samsung has started rolling out AirDrop support over Quick Share on the Galaxy S26 series. The update begins March 23 in Korea and expands globally in phases. The move allows Galaxy users to share files directly with iPhones using a workflow similar to AirDrop.

This marks a significant shift in cross-platform sharing. Until now, transferring files between Android and iPhone required third-party apps or cloud tools. With this rollout, Quick Share becomes a bridge between the two ecosystems.

The feature first appeared on Pixel devices in late 2025. Now, Samsung is bringing it to its flagship lineup.

What is AirDrop over Quick Share and how does it work?

AirDrop over Quick Share allows nearby file transfers between Galaxy and iPhone devices using local wireless connectivity. It works similarly to Apple’s AirDrop system but runs through Android’s Quick Share interface.

Galaxy users will find a new option inside Quick Share settings labeled “Share with Apple devices.” Once enabled, files can be transferred between compatible devices nearby.

However, the feature is not turned on automatically. Users must manually enable sharing permissions before sending or receiving files.

This design mirrors Apple’s own AirDrop privacy controls. Both devices must allow visibility in “Everyone” mode for transfers to work smoothly.

As a result, users gain faster and simpler sharing without relying on messaging apps or cloud uploads.

Where is Samsung rolling out the feature first?

Samsung confirmed the rollout starts in Korea on March 23. The United States follows later in the same week. Additional supported regions include:

• Europe
• Hong Kong
• Japan
• Latin America
• North America
• Southeast Asia
• Taiwan

The rollout will expand gradually across these markets. Availability may depend on software update schedules in each region.

Samsung also confirmed that more Galaxy devices will receive support later. However, the company has not announced a timeline yet.

Why did cross-platform sharing take so long?

For years, file sharing between Android and iPhone remained limited. Apple’s AirDrop worked only inside its own ecosystem. Meanwhile, Android relied on Quick Share and similar tools that stayed within Android devices.

That created friction for users switching platforms or working across multiple devices.

Recent collaboration across the industry has started changing that situation. Quick Share integration with Apple-compatible sharing signals progress toward more open connectivity between ecosystems.

The feature first appeared on Pixel smartphones in 2025. Now, Samsung’s adoption brings it to a much larger global user base.

Will more Android brands support AirDrop-style sharing soon?

Yes. The broader Android ecosystem is expected to adopt similar compatibility.

Oppo recently confirmed plans to add support before the end of March. This suggests that cross-platform sharing could soon become standard across multiple Android brands.

The expansion reflects a larger industry push toward seamless device communication regardless of operating system.

As more manufacturers adopt the feature, users may see fewer compatibility barriers between Android and iOS devices.

How do users enable iPhone sharing on the Galaxy S26?

Samsung has added a dedicated toggle inside Quick Share settings.

To activate the feature:

• Open Quick Share settings.
• Enable “Share with Apple devices.”
• Ask the receiving iPhone user to switch AirDrop visibility to “Everyone.”

Once both devices are discoverable, transfers begin immediately. This setup keeps sharing optional. Users maintain control over visibility and permissions at all times.

Why this Samsung update matters for everyday users

Cross-platform file transfer has long been a pain point for smartphone users. Sending photos, documents, or videos between Android and iPhone often requires extra steps.

Samsung’s update simplifies that process. It reduces reliance on messaging apps, email attachments, or cloud storage links. Instead, users can transfer files locally in seconds.

As more brands adopt the same capability, device ecosystems may become less isolated. That shift could improve productivity for students, professionals, and mixed-device households.

With the rollout now underway, Samsung is taking a visible step toward more open file sharing between platforms.

Conclusion

The rollout of AirDrop-style sharing through Quick Share signals a practical change in how Galaxy users exchange files with iPhones. While availability remains limited to newer devices for now, broader support is expected soon across the Android ecosystem. This update highlights how Samsung is moving toward smoother cross-platform communication.