Samsung phones do not have Apple AirDrop, but compatible Galaxy devices can share files with supported Apple devices through Quick Share. For one-off nearby transfers, enable Quick Share’s Share with Apple devices setting if it is available on your Galaxy. For moving supported data to a new Galaxy, use Smart Switch instead.
What is Samsung’s equivalent of AirDrop?
Samsung Quick Share is the Galaxy feature for sending files to nearby devices. It uses Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, and Samsung supports sharing with compatible Apple devices on certain Galaxy models and software versions. Availability varies by model and market, so “AirDrop on Samsung” is a useful comparison, not the name of a Samsung feature.
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Samsung’s regional support pages do not give one universal list of Galaxy devices that can share with Apple. Its India page, updated April 24, 2026, said the feature was supported only on the Galaxy S26 series as of March 2026, with expansion planned. Samsung Japan’s page, updated September 11, 2026, listed S-series models from S24 onward, plus Z Fold7 and Z Flip7. Check the Quick Share settings on your phone and the Samsung support page for your region and model rather than relying on either list as a global rule. Samsung Canada’s Galaxy S26 guidance and its regional support pages can help confirm current availability.
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How do you send a file from Samsung to an iPhone?
Before you start
Samsung’s India guidance lists Quick Share app version 13.8.51.27 or later and Google Play services version 26.11.xx or later for Apple-device sharing. Those requirements and supported models can vary by region. The same Samsung support material lists iPhone 8 or later, iPad (5th generation) or later, and MacBook (2020 or later) among compatible Apple devices. Confirm that your particular device and market are supported.
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Enable sharing and send
- On the Galaxy: Turn on Bluetooth and open Settings > Connected devices > Quick Share. Turn on Share with Apple devices if the setting appears. Menu labels may differ by software version.
- On the Apple device: Open Settings > General > AirDrop and select Everyone (10 minutes), as Samsung instructs for this transfer.
- On the Galaxy: In Gallery or My Files, select the photo, video, or document, tap Share > Quick Share, then choose the Apple device when it appears.
- On the Apple device: Accept the incoming file if prompted.
Samsung Australia’s guide for Australian device variants, updated August 10, 2026, describes sharing photos, videos, documents, and more between a Galaxy S26 and a compatible Apple device. That is a regional example, not proof that the feature is available on every Galaxy model. Read Samsung Australia’s instructions for its exact regional guidance.
How do you send a file from an iPhone to a Samsung phone?
- On the Galaxy, open Settings > Connected devices > Quick Share and set Who can share with you to Everyone (10 minutes only).
- On the Apple device, select the item, tap Share > AirDrop, and choose the Galaxy device.
- Accept the transfer on the Galaxy.
The Galaxy must be discoverable for the Apple device to find it. The exact menu wording can vary with software versions; Samsung’s regional Quick Share guidance covers the relevant steps.
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- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with other CDMA carriers, and it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
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What if Quick Share cannot find the other device?
- Check that Bluetooth is on for both devices and that the receiving device’s AirDrop or Quick Share visibility is set appropriately.
- Update Quick Share and Google Play services. Samsung Australia notes that Google Play services may need an update before the Apple-sharing setting appears.
- If you have just changed a policy or setting and it is not visible yet, Samsung Australia says the change can take up to a day to take effect.
- Turn off hotspot use and avoid certain Wi-Fi Direct or Wi-Fi Aware features while discovering devices; Samsung identifies these as possible causes of discovery problems.
- Retry if Wi-Fi turns off during an Apple-device transfer. Samsung notes that this can happen during Apple-device sharing.
- Confirm that your Galaxy model and regional software support the feature. If the toggle is missing after updates, consult Samsung support for your exact market and model.
Should you use Quick Share or Smart Switch?
Choose based on whether you are sending a few nearby files or setting up a Galaxy with content from an older phone.
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| Your goal | Use | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Send a photo, video, or document nearby | Quick Share | Direct file sharing when both devices are compatible and discoverable. |
| Move supported content to a new Galaxy | Smart Switch | Transfers supported categories such as photos, videos, contacts, messages, files, notes, voice memos, calendar, apps, and settings. The exact list depends on the connected device. |
| Bring over additional iPhone data | Smart Switch’s supported iCloud workflow, where available | Some items may require a later restore or app-specific steps; it is not a complete clone of an iPhone. |
How does Smart Switch move data from an iPhone?
Samsung documents wireless, cable, and external-storage transfer methods. It says wired transfers are recommended because they can transfer the most types of data; wireless may be more practical for a lengthy transfer because both phones can stay connected to chargers. A cable is optional: use wireless if that suits your setup, or a compatible cable or adapter if you choose a wired transfer. When both phones support USB-C, a USB-C to USB-C cable can connect them directly. Samsung advises that both phones have at least 20% charge for a cable transfer.
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- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
Do not assume every iPhone item will move. Samsung’s UK guide, updated March 10, 2026, says passwords and Apple Keychain data are not transferred through its documented process. Apple-owned apps do not transfer as apps, though Android versions may be available to download. For an updated QR-based wireless route, Samsung Canada specifies minimum requirements of iOS 26.6 and Android 17 / One UI 9.0 or later; those version requirements apply to that route, not every Smart Switch transfer. See Samsung’s Smart Switch support and its iPhone-to-Galaxy migration guide for the applicable method and content details.
Quick Recap
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- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist¹ with Galaxy AI.² Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more³
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- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
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