Google has launched an innovative feature that addresses a significant divide between Android and Apple devices. The new Pixel 10 series can now transmit photos, videos, and files directly to an iPhone using Apple’s AirDrop system, marking a milestone in cross-platform sharing. Previously, AirDrop was limited to Apple devices, while Android relied on Quick Share for transfers among its own. This new feature utilizes a direct device-to-device connection, ensuring that no data is uploaded to a server during the transfer. It also minimizes unnecessary data sharing, providing a quick and secure method akin to Apple’s AirDrop experience. Currently, support is exclusive to the Pixel 10 lineup. Additionally, the iPhone requires a specific setting adjustment to accept files from a Pixel.
Since AirDrop is set to contact-only by default, users must temporarily adjust their device to receive transfers from everyone. To prepare the iPhone, users should swipe down from the top-right corner to access Control Centre, press and hold the Wi-Fi/Bluetooth panel, tap AirDrop, and select ‘Everyone for 10 Minutes.’ Keeping the iPhone unlocked is essential to view and accept the incoming request. After 10 minutes, the iPhone will revert to the default ‘Contacts Only’ mode, necessitating a re-enabling of the setting if needed.
To share from a Pixel 10, users should open the file, photo, or video they wish to send, tap the Share icon, select AirDrop from the options, choose the nearby iPhone, and wait for the recipient to approve the transfer. Initial tests indicate that this system functions effectively, not only with iPhones but also with Macs. When a Pixel initiates a share, the iPhone shows a prompt with the sending device’s name, allowing the user to accept or decline the file, with accepted files saved directly to the appropriate app. This update is significant as it reflects a broader industry trend toward dismantling communication barriers between Android and iOS.
Similar to last year’s RCS update that enhanced messaging capabilities between the two platforms, this AirDrop-based sharing mechanism aims to simplify everyday interactions between devices. Key points to remember include that only the Pixel 10 series supports this feature, iPhones must be set to ‘Everyone for 10 Minutes’ to receive files, and Wi-Fi and Bluetooth should remain enabled on both devices. With this development, Google has made a meaningful advance in facilitating smoother coexistence between Android and iPhone—a goal users have long anticipated.