Google Working on Its Own NameDrop-Style Feature for Android Devices

Back in 2023, Apple rolled out NameDrop alongside iOS 17. The feature lets you tap two iPhones together to quickly swap contact info or send files. Now, over two years later, Google looks like it’s working on something similar for Android phones.

What We Know So Far

Android Authority spotted the feature hiding inside a recent update to Google Play Services. Right now, it’s called “Gesture Exchange,” and there’s also something called Contact Exchange in the code. Based on those names, it seems like sharing contact details is the main focus. The technology behind it uses NFC to get the two devices talking to each other.

Some screenshots give us a preview of how it might work. When you open the feature, you’ll see options for what you want to send—maybe a photo, your phone number, or your email. There’s also a “Receive only” mode if you just want to grab someone’s info without giving yours back.

Once the information comes through, a second screen shows what you received. You can save it with one tap, and there are quick shortcuts right there to start a video call or send a text.

The Technical Side

Even though NFC kicks things off, it probably won’t handle the actual data transfer. Google might just use it to pair the devices, then switch to a different wireless connection to move the information. Right now, it looks like the feature only handles contacts, but Google could add file sharing down the road.

The name isn’t final either. “Gesture Exchange” or “Contact Exchange” might not stick around when this actually launches. Given where it is in development, it could be a while before regular users get their hands on it.