Google is making a surprising change by renaming Nearby Share, which is like AirDrop for Android, to “Quick Share.” Initially, it was just for sharing files between Android phones, but now it also works with Chromebooks and Windows PCs (though not yet with Macs). Similar to AirDrop, it’s a convenient way to send files to friends or yourself.
Kamila Wojciechowska on Twitter/X discovered this change after updating to Google Play services beta version 23.50.13. A notification appeared, announcing that Nearby Share is now Quick Share. This notification was accompanied by a new icon featuring two arrows with tails. While the appearance is different, the way it functions remains the same. This means, the way the app works remains the same, despite the change in name and icon.
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Samsung Uses Quick Share on Galaxy Devices
The name Quick Share is interesting because Samsung uses it for file-sharing on Galaxy phones. It’s unclear if Samsung’s version has any connection to Google’s rebranding of Nearby Share. The company has not revealed any statement regarding Google’s use of Quick Share yet. If it turns out to be an agreement between Samsung and Google per reports, there is a possibility that the South Korean company will ditch its app in favor of Google’s app in future.
This rebranding seems to be primarily about appearance, as Nearby Share continues to perform the same functions. You can easily share files, and the new icon also appears in Quick Settings on Android phones. The old icon resembled two arrows or boomerangs intricately woven together.
Availability of Google Quick Share
At the moment, this change is only present in the beta version of Play Services. It might take a few more weeks before all Android devices witness the transition from Nearby Share to Quick Share.
Perhaps Google is making this change to simplify and improve the user experience. It aligns with their ongoing efforts to enhance how people use their services and devices, aiming for simplicity and efficiency.