Samsung Galaxy S26 gets AirDrop support for Apple devices

Samsung's Galaxy S26 series can now share files wirelessly with Apple devices through AirDrop interoperability. The Quick Share update rolls out March 23 in Korea, with US availability later that week. This marks Samsung's first official entry into cross-platform file sharing with Apple devices.

How does Samsung Galaxy S26 AirDrop work?

According to Samsung, the Galaxy S26's AirDrop compatibility runs through the existing Quick Share feature. When enabled, Samsung phones can detect nearby Apple devices and share files directly — photos, documents, links — just like native AirDrop between iPhones and Macs.

The setup is straightforward enough. Navigate to Settings, then Connected Devices, tap Quick Share, and select 'Share with Apple Devices.' Samsung says this is part of ongoing efforts to improve cross-platform compatibility, though it's worth noting they're following Google's lead here rather than pioneering it.

In practice, this means Galaxy S26 users no longer need workarounds like email, messaging apps, or cloud storage to share files with iPhone users. The proximity-based sharing works the same way AirDrop always has — devices need to be close together and both users need to accept the transfer.

Which Samsung phones support AirDrop interoperability?

Currently, only the Galaxy S26 series supports AirDrop compatibility with Apple devices. Samsung hasn't specified which 'additional Galaxy devices' will receive the feature later, or provided any timeline beyond 'at a later date.'

This limited rollout mirrors Google's approach. The search giant introduced Android-AirDrop compatibility in November 2025, but restricted it to Pixel 10 phones initially. Eric Kay, Google's VP of Android engineering, told Android Authority at the time that Google planned to expand integration to more devices in 2026.

The thing is, Samsung's implementation appears to be the first major Android manufacturer follow-through on that promise. Companies like Nothing and Qualcomm expressed interest on social media, but Samsung actually shipped it.

The broader Android ecosystem shift

Samsung's move follows Google's broader strategy to make Android more appealing to iPhone switchers. Eric Kay noted that Google is 'doubling down on making it easier for iPhone users to switch to Android and make sure they've got everything they had from their old phone.'

This represents a significant shift from the traditional approach of building walled gardens. Instead of forcing users to pick an ecosystem and stick with it, manufacturers are acknowledging that many people use devices from multiple companies.

For context, this wouldn't have been technically possible without cooperation from Apple. The company has historically kept AirDrop proprietary, but regulatory pressure and changing user expectations seem to be pushing toward more open standards.

Samsung Galaxy S26 AirDrop availability

The AirDrop interoperability update for Samsung Galaxy S26 series begins rolling out March 23, 2026 in Korea. US users will receive the update later that week, though Samsung hasn't specified exact dates.

UAE availability hasn't been announced, but Samsung typically rolls out software updates globally within weeks of major market launches. The feature requires no additional hardware — it's a software update to the existing Quick Share functionality.

Samsung plans to expand AirDrop compatibility to other Galaxy devices 'at a later date,' but hasn't identified which models or provided a timeline. Given the Galaxy S26 series launched with this capability, it's likely a differentiating feature for Samsung's flagship line initially.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Samsung phones support AirDrop interoperability?

Currently, only the Samsung Galaxy S26 series supports AirDrop compatibility with Apple devices. Samsung plans to expand this feature to additional Galaxy devices at a later date, but hasn't specified which models or timeline.

When will AirDrop interoperability be available on Samsung Galaxy S26?

The AirDrop compatibility update begins rolling out March 23, 2026 in Korea, with US availability later that week. UAE availability hasn't been announced but typically follows within weeks of major market launches.

How do I enable AirDrop interoperability on my Samsung Galaxy S26?

Navigate to Settings, then Connected Devices, tap Quick Share, and select 'Share with Apple Devices.' The feature works through Samsung's existing Quick Share functionality and requires no additional hardware.

Does Samsung Galaxy S26 AirDrop work both ways with Apple devices?

Yes, the Galaxy S26's Quick Share feature enables bidirectional file sharing with Apple devices that support AirDrop. Both users need to be nearby and accept the transfer for it to work.

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