Google is enhancing file sharing on Android with the wide rollout of QR code functionality for its Quick Share feature. This update simplifies the process of transferring files between Android devices, eliminating the need for manual device discovery or contact setup.

How it Works

Effortless Sharing

With the latest Google Play Services update (version 24.49.33), users can access the “Use QR code” option within the Quick Share menu. This feature streamlines the sharing process, making it more intuitive and user-friendly.

QR Code Generation

When users select the “Use QR code” option, a unique QR code is generated on their device’s screen. This code serves as a digital key for initiating file transfers.

Quick Scanning

The recipient can easily scan the QR code using their Android phone’s camera app. Once scanned, a secure link is automatically generated, initiating the file transfer without additional steps.

Automatic Transfer

After scanning, a quickshare.google link opens on the recipient’s device, leading to an immediate connection and file transfer process.

Benefits

Simplicity

This new approach eliminates the need to add contacts, verify devices, or navigate complex settings. Users can share files with just a quick scan of a QR code.

Multiple Recipients

A single QR code can be scanned by multiple devices, allowing for convenient group sharing. This feature is particularly useful in collaborative environments where files need to be shared with several people simultaneously.

Reliability

The QR code method bypasses potential issues associated with device discovery in the standard Quick Share interface, ensuring a smoother and more reliable sharing experience.

Wider Availability

This update expands QR code sharing functionality beyond Samsung devices, making it a universal feature available for all Android users. Previously, similar functionality was primarily associated with Samsung’s own Quick Share offering.

A Familiar Feature

While new for Google’s Quick Share, many users may recognize this functionality from Samsung’s Quick Share feature, which includes additional capabilities like cloud sharing. This familiarity may ease the transition for users adapting to Google’s implementation.

Overall Impact

The addition of QR code sharing marks a significant improvement for Quick Share, enhancing its reliability and ease of use. This update aligns with Google’s December 2024 Feature Bundle, which focuses on improving Android’s versatility and user experience.

Future Potential

As QR codes become increasingly integrated into everyday tasks—from payments to information access—Google’s introduction of this feature reflects a broader trend in technology usage. The seamless integration of QR codes into file sharing not only enhances convenience but also aligns with how users are already interacting with technology.

Conclusion

With the rollout of QR code sharing in Quick Share, Google is making file transfers between Android devices faster and more efficient than ever before. By simplifying the sharing process and expanding accessibility across all Android devices, Google is enhancing user experience and reinforcing its commitment to innovation in mobile technology. This development promises to make sharing files not only easier but also more reliable in various settings, from personal to professional environments.

Eric Schmidt, the former CEO of Google, has made a significant investment in Relativity Space, a California-based company pioneering 3D-printed rocket technology. This investment comes at a crucial time for Relativity as it navigates challenges and aims to advance its innovative approach to space travel.

Overview of Relativity Space

Founded in 2015, Relativity Space aims to revolutionize space travel through its unique 3D printing techniques, which allow for the rapid production of rocket components. The company’s flagship rocket, Terran 1, was launched in 2023, but unfortunately, it failed to achieve orbit. Despite this setback, Relativity is now focusing on its next-generation rocket, Terran R, which is scheduled for launch in 2026.

Challenges Faced

Relativity Space has encountered several challenges over the past few years, including funding difficulties in 2024. These hurdles have prompted the company to seek additional capital to support its ambitious plans and operational needs.

Schmidt’s Investment

Schmidt’s investment is particularly timely as Relativity Space works to secure funding for the development of Terran R and its ongoing operations. His backing underscores the growing interest in the private space sector and highlights the potential of innovative technologies like 3D printing to transform space exploration.

Background on Eric Schmidt

Known for his entrepreneurial spirit and philanthropic endeavors, Schmidt has been actively involved in various investment and advisory roles since stepping down as Google CEO in 2011. He has a history of supporting technology-driven initiatives and startups, making this investment a natural extension of his interests.

Industry Context

The investment by Schmidt comes amid an intensifying modern space race, often referred to as “Space Race 2.0.” Private companies are increasingly vying for dominance in orbit, with firms like SpaceX leading the charge. In 2024, SpaceX achieved a remarkable milestone with 134 launches, showcasing rapid advancements in the industry.

Competitive Landscape

Relativity Space is positioned as a key player within this competitive landscape, despite its initial setbacks. The company’s focus on 3D printing technology offers a unique approach that could potentially lower costs and increase efficiency in rocket manufacturing compared to traditional methods.

Conclusion

Eric Schmidt’s investment in Relativity Space highlights the growing interest and potential within the private space sector, particularly regarding innovative technologies like 3D printing. As Relativity prepares for the launch of Terran R and seeks to overcome its funding challenges, Schmidt’s support may provide crucial momentum for the company’s future endeavors. This move not only reinforces Schmidt’s commitment to advancing technology but also signifies a broader trend of increased investment in space exploration initiatives that promise to reshape our understanding and capabilities in this frontier.

Apple is expected to continue supporting all iPhones currently running iOS 18 with the upcoming iOS 19 update, according to a report from the French website iPhoneSoft.fr. If accurate, this would mark the second consecutive year that Apple maintains compatibility for all existing models, providing good news for users with older devices.

Compatibility Details

The report indicates that iOS 19 will be compatible with any iPhone capable of running iOS 18. This includes models dating back to the iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max, which were first released in September 2018. The full list of compatible devices is expected to include:

• iPhone 17 series (2025 expected)

• iPhone 16 series (2024)

• iPhone 15 series (2023)

• iPhone 14 series (2022)

• iPhone SE (3rd generation) (2022)

• iPhone 13 series (2021)

• iPhone SE (2nd generation) (2020)

• iPhone 12 series (2020)

• iPhone 11 series (2019)

• iPhone XS / XS Max

• iPhone XR

This extended support allows users to keep their devices longer without missing out on critical updates, aligning with Apple’s strategy of providing longevity to its hardware.

Limitations for Older Devices

While older devices will receive the update, it is important to note that they may not be able to utilize all the new features in iOS 19 due to hardware limitations. This trend follows the pattern established with iOS 18, which maintained compatibility with all models that could run iOS 17 but dropped support for the iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X.

Implications for iPad Users

In contrast to the positive news for iPhone users, the same report suggests that iPadOS 19 will drop support for the iPad 7th generation, released in 2019. However, all other iPads compatible with iPadOS 18 are expected to receive the update. This indicates a more selective approach for iPads compared to iPhones.

Compatible iPads

The following models are expected to support iPadOS 19:

• iPad Mini (5th generation and newer)

• iPad (8th generation and newer)

• iPad Air (3rd generation and newer)

• iPad Pro (2018 and newer)

Timeline for Release

The first public beta of iOS 19 is anticipated in June 2025 during Apple’s annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC). The final release is likely to follow in September 2025, consistent with Apple’s usual release schedule.

Future Features

Specific features of iOS 19 remain largely unknown at this stage; however, there are rumors suggesting a more conversational Siri experience, akin to ChatGPT, could be introduced in a potential iOS 19.4 update around March 2026. This aligns with Apple’s ongoing efforts to enhance user interaction through AI-driven features.

Conclusion

If the report holds true, Apple’s decision to maintain support for older iPhones with the upcoming iOS 19 update reflects its commitment to customer satisfaction and device longevity. While some limitations may apply regarding feature availability on older models, this strategy allows users to enjoy updates without needing immediate hardware upgrades. As Apple prepares for its next major software release, both iPhone and iPad users will be keenly watching how these developments unfold.