Sending Android → Receiving Android
How to transfer photos and files from Android to Android
QuickBeam lets two Android phones or tablets transfer files through their web browsers. The receiving Android displays a QR code; the sending Android scans that code and chooses the files to send.
This browser workflow is useful across different Android brands because it does not depend on both devices having the same manufacturer's sharing app. No QuickBeam sign-up is needed.
Step-by-step instructions
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Open QuickBeam on the receiving Android
In Chrome or another current browser, go to quickbeam.app and leave the QR code visible on screen.
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Scan the code from the sender
Use Camera, Google Lens, or the phone's built-in QR scanner. Open the quickbeam.app sender link shown after scanning.
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Choose files on the sending device
Tap Choose Files and use the Android picker to select photos, videos, documents, audio, or archives. Confirm to start sending.
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Keep the browsers in the foreground
Android may pause a background browser to save battery. Keep both QuickBeam pages visible and both devices awake until all progress indicators complete.
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Locate the files on the receiver
Open the receiving device's Downloads app or Files app. The exact folder and download prompt depend on the browser and Android version.
Good to know
- The two devices do not have to be the same Android brand.
- A stable Wi-Fi connection helps avoid interruptions during video transfers.
- If scanning fails, enlarge the QR code by keeping the receiving browser at its normal zoom and reduce screen glare.
Frequently asked questions
Do both Android phones need QuickBeam installed?
No. QuickBeam runs in the browser. You can optionally install its PWA shortcut for convenience, but installation is not required for a transfer.
Is this the same as Nearby Share or Quick Share?
No. Those are Android platform features. QuickBeam is a web-based alternative with a QR pairing flow and works across Android, iPhone, and computers.
Does QuickBeam keep the photos?
QuickBeam's transfer storage receives encrypted chunks, not readable photo contents or filenames. Completed transfer objects are deleted after the receiver confirms receipt, with expiry cleanup as a fallback.