Android Quick Share updated with improved Apple AirDrop compatibility

Google has rolled out major updates to Quick Share, Android's file-sharing feature, that make it far more compatible with Apple's AirDrop.

Improved Apple AirDrop compatibility for Android Quick Share rolling out

True cross-platform sharing?

The standout new feature lets compatible Android devices share files directly with Apple iPhones, iPads, and Macs via AirDrop. On supported phones, Quick Share detects nearby Apple devices when the iPhone user sets AirDrop visibility to 'Everyone for 10 minutes.'

Users simply tap Share, pick Quick Share, and select the Apple device they want to send files to. No internet required for nearby transfers.

For Android phones without full hardware capability yet, Google added a handy QR code option. This allows instant sharing with iOS devices through the cloud, ensuring almost every Android user can benefit right away. The feature is expanding to popular apps like WhatsApp soon.

These updates build on Quick Share's existing strengths: high quality, nearby sharing of photos, videos, files, and more across Android, ChromeOS, and Windows devices. Google designed the AirDrop compatibility with strong security measures, including independent testing to keep user data protected.

Additionally, RCS messaging between Android and iOS now supports end-to-end encryption, bringing better privacy and features to cross-platform chats.

List of devices getting Quick Share AirDrop update:

• Google Pixel 10 series (including Pro, Pro XL, Pro Fold, and 10a)
• Google Pixel 9 series (Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro Fold, excluding 9a)
• Google Pixel 8a
• Samsung Galaxy S26 Series
• OPPO Find X9 series, Find N6
• vivo X300 Ultra

List of devices expected to get the update soon:

• Samsung Galaxy S25 series, S24 series, Z Flip7, Z Fold7, Z Flip6, Z Fold6, Z TriFold
• OPPO Find X8 Series
• OnePlus 15
• HONOR Magic V6
• HONOR Magic8 Pro

The QR-based sharing is rolling out widely to most Android devices via Google Play Services. Full direct AirDrop compatibility expands gradually to more phones this year.

What do you guys think?

Source: Google 1, 2, Via: FoneArena