Samsung Galaxy S Beam’s Quiet Return to File Sharing

Samsung is bringing back a popular tap-to-share feature for its Galaxy devices. New code discovered in an early build of One UI 8.5 reveals plans to integrate NFC with Quick Share. This would allow users to start file transfers by simply tapping their phones together.

The feature is a direct successor to the beloved S Beam function from a decade ago. It aims to create a seamless sharing experience similar to Apple‘s AirDrop.

How the New Quick Share NFC Feature Works

The process uses both NFC and Wi-Fi Direct for optimal performance. Users initiate a transfer by bringing the tops of two compatible Galaxy phones close together. The NFC chip handles the initial connection handshake instantly.

Once the devices are paired, the actual file transfer occurs over a high-speed Wi-Fi Direct connection. This combination ensures a quick setup and fast data movement. Leaked animations show a visual confirmation on-screen when the tap is successful.

This development follows a recent rumor about Samsung redesigning its phone internals. Reports suggest the NFC coil will be moved to the top of devices starting with the Galaxy S26 series. This physical change is crucial for the intuitive tap-to-share experience.

Broader Implications for the Galaxy Ecosystem

This move significantly enhances Samsung’s cross-device connectivity strategy. It positions Quick Share as a more direct and user-friendly competitor to Apple’s ecosystem features. The goal is to make sharing between Galaxy devices as effortless as possible.

Beyond file sharing, the technology could enable other tap-based interactions. A feature similar to Apple’s NameDrop for contact sharing is a logical next step. Samsung already introduced Profile Card sharing in One UI 7.0, laying the groundwork for this expansion.

The improved NFC placement could also benefit Samsung Wallet. Tapping the top of a phone to a payment terminal would be more natural. This creates a unified approach for sharing data, contacts, and making payments.

Samsung’s integration of NFC with Quick Share marks a significant upgrade for its ecosystem. This tap-to-share functionality promises to make wireless file transfer faster and more intuitive. The feature could redefine connectivity for Galaxy users when it arrives with future software updates.

Info at your fingertips

What is the difference between this and the old S Beam?

The old S Beam also used NFC and Wi-Fi Direct. The new system modernizes the concept by integrating it directly into the current Quick Share platform. This ensures better speed and compatibility with modern devices.

Will this feature work with all Galaxy phones?

It is unclear if it will be limited to new models like the Galaxy S26. The feature requires specific NFC hardware placement, which may not be present on older devices.

How does this compare to Apple’s AirDrop?

It creates a very similar user experience. While AirDrop uses Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, Samsung’s method uses NFC for the initial connection, which can be faster for initiating transfers between two devices that have never been paired before.

Could this be used for contact sharing?

Yes, the technology certainly enables it. Samsung has already developed the Profile Card feature, making a NameDrop-like function a strong possibility in the future.

When is this feature expected to launch?

It was found in code for One UI 8.5. This software is likely to debut with the Galaxy S26 series, expected in early 2026.