Tag: AirDrop

  • Xiaomi Quick Share: Android AirDrop Support Now Available

    Xiaomi Quick Share: Android AirDrop Support Now Available

    Key Takeaway

    – Xiaomi now supports AirDrop via Quick Share on select phones, starting with the Xiaomi 17T Pro.
    – Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy phones received this update earlier in the year.
    – Google is expanding Quick Share to more Android brands, including expected support from Honor and OnePlus.
    – This update reduces the feature gap between Android and iOS, making cross-platform file sharing easier.
    – By 2026, with RCS and Quick Share improvements, Android no longer forces major compromises in sharing or communication with iPhone users.

    Xiaomi Finally Jumps on the Quick Share Bandwagon

    Xiaomi has joinned the list of Android brands that now support AirDrop over Quick Share. Thier announcement was made on X earlier today. Now users on select Xiaomi phones will be able to share files with iPhone users using Android’s Quick Share tool. Select Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy phones actually recieved this update earlier in the year.

    AirDrop Was Always a Big Deal

    AirDrop has long been a differentiating feature between Android and iPhones, allowing iPhone users to share files (often photos) and contacts quickly and easely. Even though third-party services existed to give Android phones this functionality, it was with mixed success. Google have been working on bridging the gap between both ecosystems with a more durable system, and the company seems to have finially made it work.

    Which Xiaomi Phones Will Get It First?

    Earlier this year, phones like the Google Pixel 10 series gained access to AirDrop, wich was followed by the Samsung Galaxy S26 series. Now Xiaomi is getting in on the fun, though the company only highlites the Xiaomi 17T Pro as its AirDrop-capable phone. More phones, likely flagship models, can be expected to get access to the feature in the comming weeks, and it is just as likely that new models will support it out of the box.

    Google’s Big Integration Push

    Google has been making steps toward integrating iOS and Android more closely over the past few years. With Android 17 comes increased functionality, which includes a more complete data transfer system allowing users to switch from iPhones to Android with as much ease as an iPhone-to-iPhone switch, at leest on paper anyway.

    More Brands to Follow

    Google also teased that more Android brands would be working to bring AirDrop support to Quick Share. Xiaomi is obviously one of them, but we also expect phones from Honor and OnePlus, among others, to eventualy join the party as well.

    The End of Compromises

    Choosing an Android over an iPhone in the past often meant users would have to make sacrifices when sharing and communicating, with iPhone users benefiting from iMessage and AirDrop support. As Google has built out its RCS platform and done good work with its migration tool and the Quick Share updates as well, that is no longer the case in 2026.

    Xiaomi (X)

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  • Samsung Galaxy S26 Gains AirDrop Support in US and Europe

    Samsung Galaxy S26 Gains AirDrop Support in US and Europe

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung is rolling out a significant software update (build AZCF) for Galaxy S26 series users in Europe, India, and the U.S.
    2. The update introduces native AirDrop support to Samsung’s Quick Share feature, allowing file sharing with iPhones, iPads, and Macs.
    3. This functionality enables users to share files directly without needing third-party applications.
    4. Currently, AirDrop support is limited to the S26 series, but Samsung plans to extend it to more devices with the upcoming One UI 8.5 update.
    5. Apple’s lack of official response suggests they may be considering easing restrictions due to regulatory pressure from the European Commission.

    This is a significant moment! Samsung is closing one of the biggest divides between Android and iOS.

    Major Update Rolling Out

    After launching in South Korea, Samsung is now distributing a substantial software update (build AZCF) to Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra users in Europe, India, and the United States, according to the latest reports. This update, which is about 900 MB in size, introduces native AirDrop support to Samsung’s Quick Share feature.

    New Sharing Capabilities

    With this new functionality, Galaxy users can easily share files directly with iPhones, iPads, and Macs without the need for any third-party applications. Although this feature was first seen on the Pixel 10 (thanks to Google’s initiative to enable AirDrop cross-compatibility), Samsung is now the latest brand to implement this standard.

    Getting Started with AirDrop

    To enable “AirDrop” on your Samsung device using Quick Share:

    Currently, this feature is only available for the S26 series, but Samsung intends to extend support to additional devices, likely with the forthcoming One UI 8.5 update.

    It should be mentioned that Apple hasn’t made any official statements regarding the “AirDrop on Android” situation. The feature seems to be a reverse-engineered solution rather than a collaboration between the two companies, at least based on what is known publicly. Nonetheless, the absence of any blocks indicates that Apple might be gearing up to relax their strict policies in response to growing regulatory demands from the European Commission.

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  • Google Expands AirDrop Support to More Pixel Phones, But Not All

    Google Expands AirDrop Support to More Pixel Phones, But Not All

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google has expanded AirDrop support to older Pixel 9 models.
    2. The feature was initially available only on the Pixel 10 series.
    3. AirDrop functionality will roll out in phases over the next few weeks.
    4. The Pixel 9a is not included in this update.
    5. There is no information on support for older Tensor-powered Pixel devices.

    Google recently rolled out AirDrop support through Quick Share for additional Pixel smartphones. To summarize, this feature first appeared in November, but it was limited to the Pixel 10 series, which includes the Pixel 10 Pro Fold (currently priced at $1,749.99 on Amazon).

    Expanding Compatibility

    Now, Google has announced that it will extend AirDrop functionality to older Pixel 9 models. This includes the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. The AirDrop feature is expected to function in the same way as it does on the Pixel 10 series, and you can check out more about it in the video below.

    Rollout Timeline

    However, this new feature won’t be available immediately. Instead, Google has indicated that it plans to roll out support in phases over the next few weeks. Unfortunately, they have not shared any detailed timeline for this rollout. Strangely, the Pixel 9a has been left out of this update. Moreover, the company hasn’t mentioned whether older Tensor-powered Pixel devices will get similar support anytime soon.

    Made by Google

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  • Apple aims to restrict Android to iPhone file transfer amid regulation fears

    Apple aims to restrict Android to iPhone file transfer amid regulation fears

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google introduced a new feature allowing file transfers between Android and iPhone using Quick Share and AirDrop, starting with the Pixel 10 series.
    2. This move has created tension between Google and Apple, with Apple reportedly unhappy about the situation.
    3. Apple risks public relations backlash if it reacts too quickly to Google’s feature, especially after its past resistance to RCS messaging.
    4. Regulatory scrutiny, particularly from the European Union, influences Apple’s potential responses to maintain compliance and avoid fines.
    5. Google’s successful launch of this feature puts pressure on Apple to respond cautiously, as the tech community watches closely.

    Yesterday, Google unveiled a surprising new feature: it will now allow smooth file transfers between Android and iPhone devices through Quick Share and AirDrop. Currently, this functionality is only available for the new Google Pixel 10 series, but it paves the way for broader adoption across other Android brands. The noteworthy part? Google managed to create this connection without any help from Apple.

    Tension Between Tech Giants

    This independent action has naturally stirred some tension. Although Apple hasn’t released an official statement, reliable insiders like Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman indicate that the company is not happy about the situation. Gurman mentioned that Apple is eager “to kill this [AirDrop-Quick Share link] ASAP.”

    Caution Is Key

    Yet, if Apple reacts too quickly, it could face a significant public relations blowback. Gurman points out that Apple is “backed into a corner here,” as they want to avoid “another RCS-level PR and regulatory war” that could harm their image.

    For many years, Google has been urging Apple to embrace the modern RCS standard for texting on iMessage through its “#GetTheMessage” campaign, which made Apple seem resistant to enhancing cross-platform user experiences. Apple did finally implement RCS, but only after heavy public and media pressure.

    Regulatory Challenges Ahead

    Apart from public sentiment, Apple also has to think about its response due to growing regulatory scrutiny, especially from the European Union. The European Commission has been quite active, pushing Apple into choices it wouldn’t normally make. Examples of this include adopting the USB-C charging standard and making third-party app stores available on iPhones and iPads.

    Ignoring the EU’s digital rules could lead to hefty fines. By creating a unilateral AirDrop link, Google has introduced a feature that regulators might see as essential for fair interoperability.

    At this moment, Google seems to have pulled off this strategic move successfully. The tech community is now on high alert for Apple’s response, which is expected to be one of the most cautious and measured strategies the company will undertake this year.

     

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  • Pixel 10 Series Update: Share Files Easily with Apple Users

    Pixel 10 Series Update: Share Files Easily with Apple Users

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google has introduced a feature allowing Pixel and iPhone users to transfer files easily using AirDrop and Quick Share.
    2. The Quick Share feature now works with AirDrop, enabling file sharing between Pixel 10 series and Apple devices.
    3. Users can share files without needing third-party apps or additional software installations.
    4. The feature requires iPhones to have AirDrop visibility set to ‘Everyone for 10 minutes’ for easy detection and transfers.
    5. Google emphasizes security and privacy with a layered security framework for cross-platform file sharing.

    Google has dropped a surprising update that allows users of Pixel and iPhone to transfer files easily using AirDrop and Quick Share. This new feature means that users can skip third-party apps and Bluetooth transfers, making the whole process simpler and more secure. It also works both ways without needing any extra software to be installed.

    Quick Share Meets AirDrop

    According to a recent blog post, Google has enabled the Quick Share feature to work alongside AirDrop. Up until now, Quick Share was Android’s method for quickly sharing files between two Android devices, while AirDrop had been a unique feature for iPhone, iPad, and MacBook users. Now, with this new partnership, owners of the Pixel 10 series can use Quick Share to send files to users with Apple devices that support AirDrop.

    Easy File Transfers

    As illustrated in the animation, the Quick Share menu will detect nearby iPhones that have AirDrop activated, provided their visibility is set to ‘Everyone for 10 minutes’, allowing for easy file transfers. Likewise, iPhone users or any Apple device that utilizes AirDrop can access the AirDrop menu to share files with Pixel 10 devices that are close by. Google announced that this feature is being rolled out today (November 20) for the Pixel 10 series, with plans to extend it to more Android devices soon.

    Privacy and Security Measures

    Google emphasizes that sharing across platforms comes with privacy and security measures integrated as part of its “secure by design” strategy. This involves a layered security framework that includes a secure sharing channel, built-in protections specific to Android and iOS, along with user approval systems to enhance security.

     

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  • Apple May Disable AirDrop in EU Due to DMA Rules

    Apple May Disable AirDrop in EU Due to DMA Rules

    Key Takeaways

    1. AirDrop is exclusive to Apple devices, limiting cross-platform file sharing.
    2. The convenience of AirDrop comes with restrictions due to its closed ecosystem.
    3. The EU’s new regulations may require changes to Apple’s interface and file-sharing methods.
    4. Apple argues that EU interoperability rules may compromise user privacy and security.
    5. Potential restrictions on AirDrop in the EU could impact Apple’s customer base and sales.

    AirDrop stands out as one of the most recognizable ways to share files, but it has been designed to function solely among a limited range of devices, specifically those crafted by Apple, including iPhones, iPads, and Macs.

    Convenience vs. Limitations

    The ease of use and user-friendly design of AirDrop comes with a downside—it exists within a closed ecosystem where there’s only one way to share files, and it’s the Apple way. This lack of options limits users who may want to share files across different platforms.

    EU’s New Rules

    Recently, the European Union (EU) has shaken things up with new regulations that are set to change the typical Apple interface in several ways, including the possibility of utilizing the internet for application purchases on iOS devices.

    In response to these “interoperability” requirements, Apple has claimed that they are “unreasonable, costly, and stifles innovation,” arguing that such changes could harm the privacy and security of its users.

    Future Outlook

    In a recent statement, Apple warned that these changes may “lead to an inferior user experience for our European customers,” which hints that features like AirDrop could be restricted for users in the EU in the near future.

    However, if Apple is as insightful as they claim to be, they should recognize that customers in Europe might find fewer reasons to continue purchasing their products moving forward.

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  • ColorOS 15 may introduce Apple AirDrop-like file transfer feature

    ColorOS 15 may introduce Apple AirDrop-like file transfer feature

    Reputed tipster Digital Chat Station has shared insights about the forthcoming ColorOS 15 update. According to the tipster, the update will introduce enhanced system animations.

    ColorOS 15 Could Introduce a Feature Similar to Apple’s Live Photos

    Additionally, the update is expected to include a feature akin to Apple’s Live Photos. For those who are not aware, this iPhone feature lets users capture moments 1.5 seconds before and after taking a picture. This can be particularly useful for capturing fast-moving subjects, such as birds in flight.

    Furthermore, the tipster mentioned in a separate Weibo post that devices running ColorOS 15 will be able to transfer files to Apple devices using a feature similar to AirDrop. AirDrop, developed by Apple, allows users to wirelessly send photos, videos, documents, and more to other Apple devices effortlessly. However, to use this feature on ColorOS 15, users will need to install an additional app on their Apple devices. Unfortunately, specific details about this app are currently unavailable.

    But which models will get the feature first? Ma Xin, Director of User Experience and Solutions for OPPO ColorOS, has previously shed light on this. He indicated that several models might receive this feature for internal public testing with the upcoming ColorOS 15 update. Below is the list of devices eligible for the AirDrop-like feature:

    • OPPO Find X7 Series
    • OPPO Find N3 Series
    • OPPO Find X6 Series
    • OPPO Reno11 Series
    • OPPO Reno 10 Series
    • OnePlus 12
    • OnePlus 11
    • OnePlus Ace 3
    • OnePlus Ace 3V
    • OnePlus Ace 2 Pro
    • OnePlus Ace 2
    • OnePlus Ace 2V
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