Android’s Quick Share now works with iPhone’s AirDrop, starting with the Pixel 10 lineup

In an unexpected yet exciting development, Google has enhanced its Quick Share feature to now support file transfers with Apple’s AirDrop. This new capability enables users to effortlessly exchange photos and files between Android and iPhone devices. Currently, the update is being rolled out first to the Pixel 10 series, with plans for further compatibility across more Android devices in the near future. This feature is particularly noteworthy as it allows for rapid sharing of images, videos, and documents, regardless of the operating system on either device. For users to utilize this functionality, iPhone owners must adjust their AirDrop settings to make their device visible to all by selecting the “Everyone for 10 minutes” option. Once activated, Pixel users will be able to see the iPhone listed among the available devices when using Quick Share. Google indicated in a blog post that this initial implementation is a stepping stone towards more integrated cross-platform sharing, with aspirations to eventually support a ‘Contacts Only’ mode. To ensure secure sharing, users can verify the device name shown on their screens. Notably, the update supports two-way file transfers, allowing iPhone users to send files to Pixel devices, provided the Pixel is also set to be discoverable. This feature establishes a direct and peer-to-peer connection, meaning data is not routed through a server, ensuring that shared information remains private and unlogged. Google emphasized the importance of security in this update, noting that strong safeguards were put in place and validated by independent security experts. This enhancement aligns with Google's ongoing efforts to improve compatibility across different operating systems, following their previous initiatives with RCS and tracker alerts. While the blog post sheds light on the new feature, it remains unclear how Google collaborated with Apple to facilitate this integration. TechCrunch has reached out to Apple for further insights and will provide updates should any information be received.