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

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.

Quick Share may remove that “Everyone” mode

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?