Google Expands Android-to-iPhone AirDrop Transfers to Pixel 9 handsets

Google is expanding its file sharing feature that allows some Google Pixel phone users to share files with an iPhone using the AirDrop protocol. The feature – which was announced back in November and was originally limited to the newest Pixel 10 handsets – will expand to the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold over the next few days.

With “Pixel Drop” Pixel 9 and Pixel 10 devices can transfer files to an ‌iPhone‌, iPad, or Mac, in much the same way as Apple device-to-Apple device AirDrop transfers. An internet connection is not required.

Here’s how Google describes the steps to perform the file transfer process:

1. Ask the recipient to set their visibility. Have the iOS, iPadOS, or macOS device set AirDrop to “Everyone for 10 Minutes.”
2. Select a device. Tap the device in your Quick Share menu.
3. Have them accept your request. The transfer will finish when the recipient taps Accept.

Files are saved in the traditional locations, such as a photo going to the Photos app. or a document being saved to the Files app.

To receive files from an Apple user, the Pixel user will also need to turn on the “Everyone for 10 minutes” setting or manually enter into Receive mode on the Quick Share page. Files saved on the Android end of things will be found in the Files app.

Google says the Quick Share/AirDrop interoperability is designed to ensure a safe and secure file sharing experience, no matter which platform you’re on. The sharing uses a secure sharing channel and requires consent before a file is received. All connections are peer-to-peer, meaning the data is not routed through a server.

(Via MacRumors)