Google May Time-Limit Quick Share’s Always-On Everyone Mode

by David Buliga | Feb 16, 2026 | News

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February 16, 2026 • 2 min read

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Last year, in November 2025, Google announced that Android Quick Share would be compatible with Apple AirDrop for file transfer. This allows for seamless, easier sharing of photos, videos, and other files. At first, the feature was exclusive to the Google Pixel 10 series. However, the update was later expanded to Pixel 9 series users. Later this year, more Android phones will support this capability.

Now, Google appears to be making Quick Share safer and less intrusive by removing the always-on “Everyone” visibility option. This change aligns Android’s Quick Share experience more closely with Apple’s AirDrop-style approach.

Currently, Quick Share allows users to receive files from Everyone, Everyone (only for 10 minutes), Contacts, or their own devices only. The “Everyone” setting makes a device visible to anyone nearby. As a result, it can lead to unwanted transfer requests.

First spotted by Android Authority, in the beta version of Google Play Services v.26.06.31, Google plans to remove this persistent setting and replace it with a temporary visibility mode: “Everyone (only for 10 minutes).” Instead of staying open indefinitely, your phone would become discoverable to everyone only for a short period. This happens when you initiate sharing.

This change mirrors Apple’s AirDrop behavior, where users can enable visibility briefly and then automatically return to a safer default option. The shift focuses on privacy and reducing spam-like file requests in crowded places. As a result, it avoids unwanted prompts or accidental transfers. A timed visibility option keeps sharing quick and convenient. Yet, it minimizes exposure to nearby strangers.

This change is still in development and hasn’t rolled out widely yet. The full rollout, if it ever happens, could still take weeks. What do you make of this?

Written by

David Buliga

David Buliga is a Romanian writer at SammyGuru, where he covers the Samsung and Android ecosystem with a focus on apps, software features, and the trends shaping how we actually use our devices — from Galaxy Watch apps to One UI 9, plus the occasional opinion piece. He joined SammyGuru in 2026 after previously creating entertainment content on YouTube, producing animations and gameplay videos. Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Applied Electronics and Telecommunications, David is passionate about consumer technology and enjoys getting under the hood of smartphones to see what makes them tick. Outside of tech, he loves listening to music, reading books, photography, and exploring the random ideas that often inspire his next story.