You can now use this major iPhone feature on your Pixel 10 phone

Google’s gone and done something unexpected. If you’re using a Pixel 10, you can now share files with the latest iPhones using AirDrop. Not something you’d expect to hear, right? That’s because Apple had nothing to do with it.

The Big G confirmed that it engineered this compatibility entirely on its own – no handshake, no partnership, and no nod from Cupertino. But the feature does actually work between devices. Rather well, actually. Unlike Oppo’s workaround that requires an app, this is built natively into the latest Pixel 10 software.

• Read more: Best phones to buy in 2025 reviewed and ranked

To send something from a Pixel 10 to an Apple device, the iPhone or iPad user needs to change their AirDrop settings to be visible to “Everyone for 10 minutes.” Once that’s set, the Pixel 10 can see the Apple device in Quick Share and send over the file. From the Apple side, it looks just like any other AirDrop request. It also works the other way around, as long as the Pixel is open to receive files using Quick Share.

Google insists this isn’t some messy workaround or hack. It’s a direct peer-to-peer connection. Google even brought in a third-party security firm to vet it, perhaps due to the Nothing Chat debacle. In a blog post, Google says it wants to “address interoperability issues between iOS and Android.”

But Google should expect some pushback. This sort of cross-platform tinkering is exactly the kind of thing Apple has historically shut down without hesitation. Look at what happened to Beeper Mini – the app that briefly let Android users send iMessages. Apple blocked it within days, citing security concerns.

So it’s hard to imagine Apple letting this one live for long. If your Quick Share hasn’t updated yet, you can force an update via the Play Store. But I’d do so sooner rather than later. Call me pessimistic, but I don’t imagine this will be anything other than a short-lived victory for Pixel 10 owners.

• Related: After a week with the Google Pixel 10, I’d choose this over the Pro model every time

Connor Jewiss

About

Connor is a former Stuff contributor. He has attended the biggest tech expos, including CES, MWC, and IFA, and been interviewed as a technology expert on TV and radio by national news outlets including France24. Connor has experience with most major platforms, though does hold a place in his heart for macOS, iOS/iPadOS, electric vehicles, and smartphone tech. Connor is also involved in the startup and venture capital scene, which puts him at the front of new and exciting tech.

Areas of expertise

Mobile, macOS, EVs, smart home