The long-standing digital barrier between Android and iPhone is beginning to crumble, as Google announces a new cross-platform file-sharing feature that bridges its Quick Share with Apple’s AirDrop.
For years, sharing a photo, video, or document between an Android phone and an iPhone has been a clunky process, often requiring third-party apps or slower, less secure methods like email or SMS. That friction is now starting to disappear. Google has announced that, starting with its new Pixel 10 family, its Quick Share feature will now work seamlessly with Apple’s AirDrop system.
It’s a small but meaningful step toward digital harmony, a nod to the mixed patchwork of devices we juggle among friends and family.
Google explains that sharing between friends and family shouldn’t be limited by device type and adds that many users have been asking for a more straightforward method of moving files between devices.
How It Works and What to Expect
For now, the feature is limited to the Pixel 10 lineup. With the added compatibility, a Pixel 10 owner can send files to an iPhone directly from the Quick Share menu, while iPhone users can do the same through the AirDrop share sheet. The process is meant to feel just as straightforward as the native sharing tools on both platforms.
Security and privacy have been central to the feature’s development. Google notes that it was built with strong protections in place, backed by independent testing from security specialists.
It’s another sign that Google and Apple are gradually easing up on their rivalry. Google recently pushed for RCS in iMessage, and the two even teamed up on unknown tracker alerts to help stop unwanted location tracking on both platforms.
A Rollout Starting with Pixel
The feature begins rolling out today, though it will launch exclusively on the Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro. Google notes that it intends to enhance the experience and extend support to additional Android devices later on.
For now, Pixel 10 owners are the first to see what sharing looks like when operating systems no longer determine how easily moments can be exchanged.
Send content from Android to an iPhone, iPad or macOS device
Connecting Android and Apple devices is now possible. Pixel 10 users can follow a simple set of steps to share files with iPhones, iPads, or Macs.
- Prepare the Apple Device: First, ask the recipient to open Control Center on their iPhone or iPad, long-press the network settings card, and tap AirDrop. They must then select “Everyone for 10 minutes” to make their device discoverable.
- Initiate the Share: On your Pixel 10, open the photo, video, or file you want to send and tap the “Share” icon.
- Select Quick Share: Choose “Quick Share” from the share menu. Your phone will then search for nearby devices.
- Find & Send: Select the recipient’s iPhone, iPad, or Mac from the list of available devices.
- Accept the Transfer: The recipient will see an AirDrop notification on their Apple device. Once they tap “Accept,” the file transfer will begin.
How to Receive Files on Your Android
The experience of receiving files on your Android device is designed to be effortless. When someone near you sends a photo, video, or document using Quick Share, a notification will prompt you to accept the incoming file. With a single tap, the content is securely transferred and neatly organized for you. You can always find all your received files in the default Files app under Downloads > Quick Share folder.
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