Google cracked Apple’s AirDrop on Pixel phones: What You Need to Know

Google has just made waves in mobile file sharing by announcing that Pixel 10 owners can now use AirDrop to transfer files to Apple devices. This new feature brings cross-platform Quick Share compatibility, allowing seamless sharing with iPhones, iPads, and macOS devices. It’s a breakthrough for Android users who’ve long envied AirDrop’s speed and convenience.

How Does Google’s AirDrop Work on Pixel Phones?

To send files from a Pixel 10, Apple users must set their device to “discoverable by everyone,” which times out automatically after 10 minutes. Pixel owners can then use Quick Share to detect the Apple device and initiate the transfer. On the Apple side, the file request appears as a standard AirDrop prompt, so the experience feels native and effortless.

Which Devices Support Google’s AirDrop Feature?

Currently, this interoperability is limited to the Pixel 10 series. Google spokesperson Alex Moriconi confirmed plans to expand support to older Pixel models and other Android devices in the future. Any Apple device running iOS, iPadOS, or macOS with AirDrop enabled can receive files, making this a major step toward bridging the Android-iPhone gap.

Why Google Cracking AirDrop Matters for Users

This development signals a new era of cross-platform collaboration, reducing friction between Android and Apple ecosystems. Users no longer need third-party apps or cloud uploads to share files, saving time and improving convenience. For Pixel owners, this update turns Quick Share into a true competitor to AirDrop, giving Android users a feature they’ve long awaited.