How to share files with Quick Share on Android

2 min read · 5 steps · Updated 2 October 2026

Quick Share, formerly Nearby Share, sends photos, videos, links and files between Android phones, tablets, Chromebooks and Windows PCs without internet or a cable.

Menu names below are from Google Pixel phones on a recent Android version. Samsung, Xiaomi and other brands rename some of them, so the Samsung name is given where it differs. The pictures are simplified diagrams of the screen, not screenshots.

Step by step

1. Open what you want to send and tap Share

   In Google Photos, Files or most other apps.

   Done

2. Tap Quick Share

   Nearby devices that are visible appear as circles.

   Done

3. Tap the device

   The other person sees a request and taps Accept. Transfers between your own devices signed in to the same Google Account are accepted automatically.

   Done

4. Make your phone visible to receive

   Open Settings, Google, All services, Quick Share, or swipe down twice and tap the Quick Share tile. Choose Your devices, Contacts or Everyone for 10 minutes.

   Done

5. Find received files

   They are saved in the Files app under Downloads, in a Quick Share folder, and shown in a notification.

   Done

Good to know

If a device does not appear, unlock it, bring the two closer, and set its visibility to Everyone for 10 minutes.

To send to a Windows PC, install Quick Share for Windows from Google on the computer.

With iPhones: some newer Android phones can send to an iPhone when its AirDrop is set to Everyone for 10 Minutes. Otherwise Quick Share can show a QR code for the iPhone to scan, which needs internet on both phones.

On Android 12 and earlier, Location must also be on.

Leave visibility on Your devices or Contacts in public places.

In short: Share, Quick Share, tap the device, accept.