The Android Share Menu simplifies the process of sending webpages, videos, images, and other content through any compatible app on your phone.
However, it can sometimes be challenging to navigate. Let’s explore the limited customization options available to enhance your sharing experience.
Include New Apps in the Sharing Menu
To add an app to the Share list, just install it. If compatible, it will automatically appear in the Share menu—no manual setup required.
If you wish to remove an app from the Share menu, you’ll need to uninstall it from your device. Android will automatically delete the app’s entry in the Share menu upon uninstallation.
Depending on your device and Android version, certain pre-installed apps might not be removable. In these instances, you can typically disable them to effectively remove them from the Share menu.
Unfortunately, there are limited options for customizing the Android Share menu, even if you root your device—a process that grants you top-level access to your phone’s operating system.
Pin Applications in the Android Share Menu
For a long time, the main issue with Android’s default Share menu was the lack of logical order in which apps were displayed.
Frequently, recently used apps would show up first; however, navigating through this list became challenging when it contained numerous applications.
Apps are now listed in alphabetical order, allowing you to quickly find the app you want for sharing. Although there is a section at the top with shortcuts to recent conversations, it’s easy to bypass if you’re not interested.
The Android Share menu offers limited customization, with the primary option being the ability to pin items.
To do this, simply press and hold the item for a moment and then select Pin [app]. If an app provides multiple sharing options—like sending a chat or email in Gmail—you can choose to pin your preferred method.
Pinned apps are displayed above the main list in the Share menu. While you can technically pin an unlimited number of apps, only four will be visible at a time.
To remove a pinned app, long-press it and select “Unpin [app].”
Conclusion
In the past, third-party apps like Sharedr allowed for greater customization of Android’s Share menu, enabling users to hide or rename app entries.
However, starting with Android 12 and subsequent versions, restrictions have been imposed that prevent these apps from being set as the default Share menu.
This trend is likely to persist since Android has discontinued replacement apps for sharing features. Ideally, Google will enhance the Share interface in the future, eliminating the need for these apps.
If you’re using an iPhone or Mac, you still have the option to customize your device’s Share menu.
