Samsung Galaxy S26 Series Gains AirDrop Compatibility via Quick Share
Samsung is officially bridging a significant gap between Android and iOS with the rollout of AirDrop support for its Quick Share feature on the Galaxy S26 series. The update, which began in Korea on March 23, 2026, is now expanding to regions including Europe, India, and the US [Samsung Newsroom]. This allows Galaxy S26 users to seamlessly share files with iPhones, iPads, and Macs without relying on third-party applications.
How AirDrop Works with Samsung Quick Share
While Google initially pioneered cross-platform AirDrop compatibility with the Pixel 8 series [Lifehacker], Samsung is the latest major Android manufacturer to adopt the modern standard. Here’s how to enable and use the feature:
- Enable Quick Share Settings: Navigate to the Quick Share settings and toggle on “Share with Apple devices.”
- Apple Device Settings: Ensure the receiving Apple device has AirDrop set to “Everyone” or “Contacts Only” for a period of 10 minutes to be discoverable.
- Software Requirements: Users need to have Google Play Services (version 26.11.33 or later) and the Quick Share application (version 13.8.51.30 or later) updated [Android Authority].
Rollout Details and Future Expansion
Currently, AirDrop support is exclusive to the Galaxy S26 series – including the Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26 Plus, and Galaxy S26 Ultra. Samsung intends to extend compatibility to additional devices, potentially with the release of One UI 8.5 [Lifehacker]. The rollout began with a software update (build number S948BXXU1AZCF) weighing approximately 900MB [Android Authority].
Apple’s Response and Regulatory Context
Apple has not yet issued an official statement regarding AirDrop compatibility on Android. The current implementation appears to be a reverse-engineered solution rather than a formal partnership. However, the lack of blocking by Apple may indicate a shift towards greater interoperability, potentially driven by regulatory pressure from the European Commission [Lifehacker].
Key Takeaways
- Samsung Galaxy S26 series now supports AirDrop via Quick Share.
- The feature is rolling out globally, starting in Korea and expanding to Europe, India, and the US.
- Compatibility requires updated software on both the Samsung and Apple devices.
- Samsung plans to expand AirDrop support to more Galaxy devices in the future.