Google’s Quick Share, the Android equivalent of Apple’s AirDrop, has been under the spotlight at the tech giant. Recent updates have given it a Material Design facelift and a dedicated Windows app, hinting at Google’s efforts to enhance user experience by integrating QR code technology.

According to a report by Android Authority, the upcoming update to Google Play Services (version 24.20.13) might introduce QR code functionality to Quick Share, making device connections even easier. Currently, Quick Share requires devices to be nearby, on the same Wi-Fi network, or paired via Bluetooth. While Wi-Fi offers faster transfer speeds, aligning devices on the same network can be cumbersome at times. The new QR code feature aims to simplify this process by allowing users to generate a QR code on the sender’s device for the receiver to scan with their camera and establish a connection effortlessly.

The integration of this feature into the Android system share sheet will provide users with a convenient “Share with QR code” option. However, it’s essential for users to grant Quick Share access to Bluetooth and location permissions for seamless functionality. Although no official rollout date has been announced yet, early testing indicates that cross-platform transfers with iPhones won’t be possible through this feature as scanning the QR code with an iPhone redirects users to a Quick Share support page.

As Google continues refining Quick Share, incorporating QR codes could further solidify its position as a practical alternative to AirDrop for Android users seeking an easy and efficient way to share files wirelessly.