Google Pixel 9 gains AirDrop support, but you’ll have to wait

In November 2025, Google did the unthinkable: it made Android's Quick Share work with AirDrop. Pixel 10 users could finally send and receive files wirelessly with iPhones, iPads, and Macs. Google now seems all set to expand this Pixel 10 exclusive feature to its 2024 Pixel lineup.

Android Authority spotted system files to enable Quick Share and AirDrop compatibility on the Pixel 9 series in the first Android Canary build of 2026 (ZP11.251212.007). The Pixel 9a is the only exception, as its build lacks the relevant files.

To be clear, for now, only the necessary files related to the feature have been found in the latest Android Canary build; cross-platform Quick Share and AirDrop functionality has not been reported to work yet.

The report also states that the feature is currently unavailable on the Pixel 8 and older models. That doesn’t necessarily rule out broader support, as Google could expand AirDrop compatibility to earlier Pixels down the line. However, with the necessary files missing from the Pixel 9a, Google may keep Quick Share-AirDrop compatibility exclusive to its non-A-series Pixels.

AirDrop share is not available on the Pixel 9 in Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1. So, it's unclear if the company will roll it out as part of Android 16's third Quarterly Platform Release in March 2026 or later in the year with Android 17.

In its announcement, Google promised to expand AirDrop support to more "Android devices." So hopefully, the company will bring this feature to non-Pixel devices this year as well. It could start the expansion with the Pixel 9 family, followed by other flagship Android phones.

Wireless file sharing without the headaches

Quick Share and AirDrop compatibility works exactly the way you’d expect. Set AirDrop to “Everyone” on the iPhone, select a file on your Pixel, and the iPhone instantly appears as a nearby device. Tap it, accept the transfer on the iPhone, and the file sends wirelessly in seconds.

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You can share files with iPads and Macs through Quick Share from your Pixel as well. And even better, your Pixel can wirelessly receive files from an iPhone or any other AirDrop-compatible Apple device. The native experience makes the entire process feel magical, especially since Apple refused to open AirDrop for so many years.