Android and iPhone File Sharing to Become More Seamless Than Ever

Google has introduced a major upgrade to its Quick Share feature, allowing users of both Android and iPhone devices to seamlessly transfer files directly between supported applications. The new Quick Share software development kit (SDK) was unveiled at the Android Dev Summit 2026 and is set to be released in the first half of 2027.

Developers will be able to integrate Quick Share into their apps, making it possible for users to transfer photos, videos, and other files between nearby devices without leaving the application interface.

Previously, users had to manually open their phone's sharing menu and select Quick Share to transfer files. With the upcoming SDK, the process will be more streamlined, with a smaller panel displayed at the bottom of the app showing previews of the selected files. Users will then be able to start the transfer without needing to navigate away from the application.

Google will also provide an iOS SDK, enabling developers to bring Quick Share functionality to iPhone apps. However, the feature will only become available in applications whose developers choose to integrate it. The SDK will transfer files using local connections, utilizing end-to-end encryption to protect the information during transmission. Transfers can also occur even without an internet connection or mobile data, working in areas such as airplanes and subway tunnels.

The new Quick Share SDK will support Google’s Tap to Share feature, which allows users to transfer files by bringing compatible devices close together. The receiving application will automatically launch after the transfer completes, even if it was not already open. Developers also have the option to mark files as sensitive, preventing previews from being displayed during the sharing process.

Integrating Quick Share into an application requires only around 20 lines of code, eliminating the need for developers to maintain separate servers. Google's Quick Share is already available on over 3 billion devices across Android, ChromeOS, and Windows. The SDK will further expand its capabilities, allowing third-party Android and iPhone applications to offer built-in file sharing.

However, it will depend on individual developers choosing to add this support to their applications. The exact release date for the SDK has not been announced yet.