Last year, Google enabled AirDrop compatibility on Pixel 10 devices for the first time, a change that finally allowed Android phones to share files with iPhones through Apple’s own system. Now Google is expanding its Quick Share feature and Pixel 9 phones are next in line.
Google shared the news on X, confirming that the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 9 Pro Fold now support Apple’s AirDrop.
However, the company hasn’t explained why the Pixel 9a is excluded from this wave of compatibility. The feature will be rolled out gradually over the coming weeks.
How to set up Quick Share with AirDrop on Pixel phones
To enable the feature on a Pixel 9 series phone, follow these steps: Settings > System > Software updates > Install the latest Google Play system update.
Make sure the Quick Share extension is also updated by opening Settings > All Services > System Services > Quick Share Extension and installing the available update.
To receive files from a Pixel, Apple device owners must set their AirDrop visibility to “Everyone for 10 minutes” for the connection to be established.
Google’s promise of privacy and performance
According to Google, the update allows Pixel 9 users to easily share high-resolution files across iPhones, iPads and macOS devices. This makes it easier for friends who use Apple products to share content over Bluetooth.
Google also says privacy and speed remain a priority, adding that the system uses multiple layers of protection to ensure the security of shared files. The feature uses a direct peer-to-peer connection, so files are not sent, logged, or shared across servers beyond the actual transfer.
For Pixel 9 users, it’s a small update that finally solves a major everyday annoyance when sharing files with iPhone friends.
