Popular Samsung Galaxy A56 learned AirDrop. Send photos to iPhone in full resolution

Sending photos from an Android to a friend with an iPhone used to be annoying: either via a chat app that compresses them, or via a cloud link. Galaxy A56 owners now have it easier. The One UI 9 update brought AirDrop support to the popular mid-range Samsung, so you can send files directly to iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

One UI 9 unlocked sharing with Apple on Galaxy A56

As reported by SamMobile, after installing the stable One UI 9.0, the Quick Share app gained the ability to share files with Apple devices. It works both ways, so you can also receive files from an iPhone. The transfer occurs directly between devices via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, without an intermediate step through the cloud. According to Android Headlines, photos and videos arrive in their original resolution.

However, this is not the first attempt for the A56. Already in the spring, the switch for sharing with Apple appeared on some Galaxy A series models, among which, according to reports at the time, was the A56. However, the actual file sending did not work then. According to SammyGuru, some A56 owners reported the option already after One UI 8.5, but others missed it. Samsung first launched the new feature on the flagship Galaxy S26 series, and with One UI 9, the A56 is now also receiving it.

Turn on AirDrop in Quick Share settings

Before you start, update the Quick Share app and related system components in the Galaxy Store. Then open Settings > Connected devices > Quick Share and turn on the “Share with Apple devices” switch. Once the other party meets the conditions below, iPhones, iPads, and Macs nearby will start appearing in your regular sharing menu.

However, the other party must also take one step. The iPhone owner must switch AirDrop visibility to “Everyone”, because the “Contacts Only” option does not work with Android. Additionally, the iPhone’s screen should be on, otherwise it may not appear in the menu. Conversely, if you want to receive a file from an iPhone, open Quick Share on the Galaxy A56 and set the phone’s visibility to “Everyone”.

Phone may disconnect from Wi-Fi during transfer

Samsung itself points out two limitations. During the search for Apple devices or when sending a file, the phone may briefly disconnect from Wi-Fi. Furthermore, the transfer may be slightly slower than between two Samsung devices. According to SammyGuru, the availability of the feature may also vary depending on the software region, Quick Share version, and Google Play Services.

There’s still One UI 9 itself. The Galaxy A56 first received it in South Korea, and in recent days, sources have also reported its arrival in Europe. We therefore recommend checking the updates page in your system settings.

Will you use AirDrop on your Galaxy A56?

Sources: SamMobile, Android Headlines, SammyGuru