Google hints at big AirDrop expansion for Android "very soon"

February 6, 2026
Google hints at big AirDrop expansion for Android "very soon"

Here's something that caught my attention — Google’s hinting at a major AirDrop expansion for Android, and it’s happening very soon. So, if you’ve ever felt frustrated trying to share files seamlessly between Android and Apple devices, get ready. Right now, only the latest Pixel 10 phones can start an AirDrop session with iPhones, but according to Ryan Whitwam at Ars Technica, Google’s planning a big push this year to bring that support to many more Android phones. During an event in Taipei, Google’s VP of Android engineering, Eric Kay, laid out the plan — more devices, broader compatibility, and a real step toward breaking down those platform silos. Now, here’s where it gets interesting: this shift could mean smoother, faster sharing for millions of users, no matter what phone they carry. So what does this actually mean for your everyday workflow? Well, it’s a sign that Google’s serious about making Android more open and user-friendly — honestly, a game-changer for cross-platform life.

There is very little functional difference between iOS and Android these days. The systems could integrate quite well if it weren't for the way companies prioritize lock-in over compatibility. At least in the realm of file sharing, Google is working to fix that. After adding basic AirDrop support to Pixel 10 devices last year, the company says we can look forward to seeing it on many more phones this year.

At present, the only Android phones that can initiate an AirDrop session with Apple devices are Google's latest Pixel 10 devices. When Google announced this upgrade, it vaguely suggested that more developments would come, and it now looks like we'll see more AirDrop support soon.

According to Android Authority, Google is planning a big AirDrop expansion in 2026. During an event at the company's Taipei office, Eric Kay, Google's VP of engineering for Android, laid out the path ahead.

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Audio Transcript

There is very little functional difference between iOS and Android these days. The systems could integrate quite well if it weren't for the way companies prioritize lock-in over compatibility. At least in the realm of file sharing, Google is working to fix that. After adding basic AirDrop support to Pixel 10 devices last year, the company says we can look forward to seeing it on many more phones this year.

At present, the only Android phones that can initiate an AirDrop session with Apple devices are Google's latest Pixel 10 devices. When Google announced this upgrade, it vaguely suggested that more developments would come, and it now looks like we'll see more AirDrop support soon.

According to Android Authority, Google is planning a big AirDrop expansion in 2026. During an event at the company's Taipei office, Eric Kay, Google's VP of engineering for Android, laid out the path ahead.

Read full article

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