Google reveals AirDrop-style sharing is coming to all Android phones
After testing the feature on Pixel phones, Google has confirmed that AirDrop compatibility will soon expand to more Android devices via Quick Share.
For years, sharing files between Android phones and iPhones has felt like crossing the border without a visa. That gap finally began to narrow last year when Google quietly introduced AirDrop compatibility via Quick Share on the Pixel 10 series. Now, Google has confirmed that this feature will no longer be a Pixel-only trick. AirDrop-style sharing is set to come to a wider range of Android phones, and the rollout is closer than many expected.
The confirmation came during a recent press conference at Google’s offices in Taipei, where the company was hosting select media and influencers. Speaking at the event, Google’s vice president of engineering for Android, Eric Kay, said the company is ready to take the next step after testing the feature on its own devices, reports Android Authority. According to Kay, Google has already shown that the technology works reliably, and now the focus has turned to rolling it out to the rest of the Android ecosystem.
“Last year, we launched AirDrop interoperability. In 2026, we’re going to expand it to many more devices,” Kay said. He said Google spent a lot of time making sure the system worked smoothly not only with iPhones, but also iPads and MacBooks. “Now that we’ve proven it, we’re working with our partners to expand it to the rest of the ecosystem, and you’ll see some exciting announcements soon.”
A feature like AirDrop came for the first time on this Android phone in 2025
Google first enabled AirDrop interoperability via Quick Share on the Pixel 10 lineup in November 2025. Since then, despite growing curiosity among users of other Android phones, the feature has remained exclusive to those devices. Although there were signs that Google planned to expand support, this is the first time that a senior executive has explicitly confirmed that a broader rollout is officially on the way.
What makes this move important is how Google is positioning it. The company is not treating AirDrop compatibility as a workaround or temporary bridge. Instead, it is being built as a platform-level feature within Android itself. Google says security has been a top priority, with the feature developed using trusted protocols and reviewed by independent auditors. In simple terms, it means proper, long-term solutions rather than quick fixes.
Android users will now be able to easily share photos from iPhone
Once expanded, Android users should be able to share photos, videos, and files directly with nearby iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks using Quick Share, without relying on third-party apps or cloud links. This could significantly reduce friction for people who regularly switch between Android and Apple devices, or who use different platforms at work and home.
Interestingly, Kay also hinted that Google is thinking beyond just file sharing. He said the company is working on making it easier to transfer their data without any hassle for those who decide to switch phones. Although he did not directly name iOS, the comments strongly suggested that Apple devices were part of the conversation. No specific features or timelines were shared, but it signals a broader effort by Google to make Android feel less isolated from the Apple ecosystem.
What is the release date of AirDrop feature?
Google has only said announcements about when users will actually see AirDrop-style sharing on non-Pixel phones are coming “very soon.” With major industry events scheduled to take place in the coming weeks, Android users won’t have to wait too long for clarity. However, it’s clear that Google always intended to bring this feature to more devices, and the company now believes the groundwork is finally complete. So, it shouldn’t take too long for this feature to reach all Android devices.
