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Google has taken a big step toward cross-platform sharing: Quick Share can now talk to Apple's AirDrop. The catch is simple but important — this interoperability is limited to Google’s Pixel 10 family for the moment. If you own one of those phones, sharing files with an iPhone just became noticeably easier.
Cross-platform sharing — but only for Pixel 10 owners
Imagine sending a photo or a document from your Pixel to an iPhone without fumbling with email or cloud links. That’s the promise here: use Quick Share on a Pixel 10 the same way you’d share with another Android device, and an iPhone running AirDrop will show up as a target. The same flow works in reverse, so iPhone users can drop files to a Pixel 10 via AirDrop-like prompts.
How it works in practice
- Open the file or photo you want to share on a Pixel 10 and tap the share icon.
- Select Quick Share as you normally would for nearby Android devices.
- Pick the nearby iPhone when it appears and accept the transfer on the receiving device.
Under the hood, Google built compatibility between Quick Share and Apple's AirDrop protocols so the transfer is meant to feel seamless. There’s no extra app to install and no complicated pairing process — just the familiar share sheet experience.
Why the restriction matters — and what to expect next
Limiting the feature to the Pixel 10 family is a strategic choice. It lets Google control the rollout, test performance, and refine privacy or security handling before broadening support. For users, though, the limitation is clear: only Pixel 10 owners get the convenience right now.
That said, history suggests this won’t stay exclusive forever. Google often starts new features on its latest hardware before expanding to more devices over months or even years. If you’re on another Android handset, prepare to wait — or use traditional workarounds like cloud links, messaging apps, or email in the meantime.
Is this a game changer for cross-platform users?
For households that mix iPhones and Pixel 10 phones, yes — it simplifies everyday sharing and reduces friction. For the broader Android ecosystem, it’s a promising step toward better interoperability, even if the initial availability is narrow. Keep an eye on software updates from Google if you want this feature on non-Pixel devices.
Source: gsmarena
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