Samsung’s One UI 9 Leak Unveils ‘Tap to Share’ and Enhanced Bixby Widgets
Samsung is gearing up for the release of One UI 9, its latest interface update, anticipated to launch later this summer. Recent leaks have provided a closer look at two significant features: the ‘Tap to Share’ functionality and new Bixby widgets.
According to reports from SamMobile, Samsung has transitioned its test builds to Android 17, moving away from Android 16. This shift has unveiled new features on the Galaxy S26, notably the ‘Tap to Share’ gesture. Previously, this feature was hinted at with an empty settings page, but the latest build offers a comprehensive guide on sharing documents by simply tapping devices together.
The process is straightforward:
1. Open the Gallery, Quick Share, or the share panel on your device.
2. Tap your device against another supported phone.
3. This action allows the transfer of selected images, videos, and other files.
If initiated from the home screen, the feature shares your contact profile, facilitating the exchange of phone numbers, email addresses, and more. Both devices must be unlocked, and the backs of each phone should be tapped together. The exact contact point may vary depending on the device models. After tapping, the receiving device will prompt the user to accept the data transfer.
This development aligns with Google’s efforts to enhance cross-OEM support, aiming to enable seamless file sharing between devices like the Galaxy S26 and Pixel 10. While Quick Share already offers similar functionality, it remains relatively obscure and occasionally inconsistent.
In addition to ‘Tap to Share,’ Samsung is introducing new Bixby widgets for the home screen. These widgets provide quick access to the AI assistant through both keyboard and voice commands. This initiative follows Samsung’s recent partnership with Perplexity, which brought upgrades to Bixby earlier this year. However, it remains to be seen whether these enhancements will entice users to choose Bixby over competitors like Gemini.
One UI 9 is expected to roll out later this year, with the initial launch likely coinciding with the release of Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Flip 8.
