Google is finally bringing AirDrop compatibility to more Pixel phones through Quick Share. The feature, which debuted on the Pixel 10 series last year, now supports the Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, and 9 Pro Fold, but not the Pixel 9a.
To use it, your Apple friend can set AirDrop to “Everyone for 10 minutes” on their iPhone, iPad, or Mac. Then, from the Pixel, open Quick Share as usual, spot the device, and send. They’ll need to accept the transfer. It’s direct peer-to-peer over Bluetooth and Wi-Fi with no servers involved, no data logging, and Google-built strong privacy layers.
The rollout started this week via a phased update over the coming weeks. To check if your phone has received it, go to Settings, search “System services,” scroll to Available Updates, and tap to install the Quick Share Extension if needed. Some Pixel 9 owners are reportedly already sharing files successfully after updating.
When Google introduced Quick Share – AirDrop compatibility last year, they closed a big gap in cross-platform sharing. Before, Android users relied on apps like ShareIt or email for iOS transfers which were clunky and less secure. Quick Share with AirDrop feels native, much like RCS did for messaging.
Samsung’s Quick Share works similarly within its ecosystem but pairs with Nearby Share for broader Android use. It lacks native AirDrop support, but Google is apparently collaborating with OEMs like Samsung and Nothing for wider rollout. Apple’s AirDrop stays iOS/Mac-exclusive without these tweaks, forcing workarounds. This definitely gives Pixel phones an edge in markets like India, where mixed Android-iOS households are common. People don’t need to send media and documents via WhatsApp any more and risk losing quality.
If you own a Pixel 9 series (but not the Pixel 9a), you should get the update. It’s a free ecosystem boost that enhances daily usability without any new hardware. However, the current setup uses AirDrop’s “Everyone for 10 Minutes” mode. A future “Contacts Only” upgrade via a Google-Apple collab would make it even more secure.
Google Pixel 9 Images
