How to use Quick Share to share a file between phones

Discover how to use Quick Share on Samsung Galaxy devices to transfer files between phones, including sharing with Apple devices, using QR codes, links, and private sharing options.

Quick Share on Samsung Galaxy devices enables seamless file transfers between phones, tablets, and laptops using Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Whether you're sharing photos, videos, or documents, this guide covers all methods, including sharing with Apple devices, using QR codes, and private sharing to protect sensitive content.

1. What is Quick Share on Samsung Galaxy devices?

Quick Share is a file-sharing feature available on Samsung Galaxy devices that allows users to transfer files such as photos, videos, and documents quickly and securely. It uses a combination of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for fast and efficient transfers. Quick Share supports sharing with nearby devices, using QR codes, links, and even with supported Apple devices while maintaining original file quality.

Supported Samsung Galaxy devices include smartphones and tablets with Android 10.0 (Q) and One UI 2.1 or later, as well as Galaxy Books released in 2020 or later. Sharing with Apple devices is currently supported on the Galaxy S26 series and will expand to select flagship models in the future.

2. How to enable Quick Share on your Samsung Galaxy device

Before using Quick Share, ensure that both Bluetooth and Quick Share are enabled on your device. Follow these steps:

1. Open the Settings app on your Samsung Galaxy device.
2. Navigate to Connections or Network settings.
3. Enable Bluetooth and Wi-Fi if they are turned off.
4. Tap on Quick Share to turn it on.

Once enabled, you can adjust the sharing visibility settings:

- No one: No one can share with you.

- Your devices: Only your own devices can share with you.

- Contacts: Only contacts who use a Samsung account can share with you.

- Everyone: Anyone can share with you. (This feature may not be available on some models.)

- Everyone (10 minutes only): Anyone can share with you for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, it changes to Contacts if you are signed in to a Samsung account, or No one if you are not signed in.

3. How to share files between Samsung Galaxy devices

Quick Share offers multiple methods to share files between devices. Here are the most common options:

3.1. Share to devices nearby

This method allows you to share files directly with nearby devices without using mobile data. Ensure that both devices have Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Quick Share turned on, and keep the recipient's screen on.

3.2. Share via QR code

Use this method when the recipient is nearby and can scan your screen. It requires Wi-Fi or mobile data. The recipient can scan the QR code displayed on your device to receive the file.

3.3. Share via URL

This method generates a download link that you can send through a messaging app or email. It requires Wi-Fi or mobile data. The recipient can click the link to download the file.

3.4. Share to contacts

Send files directly to a saved contact. This method requires Wi-Fi or mobile data. The recipient will receive the file directly on their device.

3.5. Private sharing

Use Private sharing to prevent others from saving, sharing, or capturing the file. Files cannot be saved, shared, or captured with screenshots, and only Galaxy devices support this feature.

3.6. Share with Apple devices

You can share files between your Galaxy phone and supported Apple devices. Follow these steps:

1. On your Galaxy phone, go to Settings > Quick Share > Share with Apple devices and turn it on.
2. Open the file you want to share, tap Share, and select Quick Share.
3. Choose the Apple device from the list.

On the Apple device, go to Settings > General > AirDrop > Select Everyone (10 minutes). Then, open the file, tap Share, and select AirDrop to send it to the Galaxy device.

- Supported Apple devices: iPhone 8 or above, iPad (5th generation) or above, and MacBook (2020 or later).

- Note: Wi-Fi may turn off automatically when connecting to Apple devices. Sharing with Apple devices is not possible while using Mobile Hotspot or services like Smart View, DeX, or Music Share.

4. Additional things to check

If Quick Share is not working as expected, consider the following:

- Ensure both devices have Quick Share enabled.

- Check Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections.

- Restart your device if sharing fails.

- Update the Quick Share app and Google Play services to the latest versions.

5. Related Samsung support topics

- How to free storage space on Samsung Galaxy devices

- How to use Smart Switch on Samsung Galaxy phones

- How to clear cache files on Samsung Galaxy devices