Google has just done what Android users have dreamed of for over a decade, Pixel 10 phones can now AirDrop files directly to iPhones, iPads, and Macs. No third-party apps. No awkward links. No “I’ll send it later.” Just tap → send → done.
But the real shocker? Google built this on its own without Apple’s help.
The breakthrough everyone wanted, but no one expected
Quick Share on the Pixel 10 now detects nearby Apple devices the same way AirDrop detects iPhones. Want to send a photo to an iPhone? As long as the Apple user switches AirDrop to “Everyone for 10 minutes”, the Pixel can beam files straight over. The iPhone receives it like a normal AirDrop request.
And yes, it works both ways.
Privacy first: Google’s pre-emptive strike
Knowing Apple’s strict ecosystem walls, Google came prepared. Transfers are peer-to-peer, meaning files never touch Google’s servers. The system was also vetted by an outside security firm.
This is Google telling the world: “We did this safely. Your move, Apple.”
Not perfect yet but a massive leap forward
For now, this superpower is exclusive to Pixel 10 devices. More Android phones will get it later, but there’s no confirmed timeline. Apple users will also need to manually turn on the temporary visibility mode every time.
Still, compared to the messy workarounds of the past – QR codes, links, apps, this is a giant leap in cross-platform peace.
The bigger picture
From Apple adopting RCS to now AirDrop-style sharing across ecosystems, the tech world is shifting toward cooperation, not competition. Daily life moments: parties, travel, meetings will no longer feel like iPhone-only zones.
The big question:
Will Apple accept this newfound bridge or try to burn it down?
For now, Pixel 10 users get the future first and it tastes like freedom.