Android-to-iPhone File Transfer Lands on Snapdragon Phones
Google expands cross-platform sharing from Pixel to iPhone, and Qualcomm confirms Snapdragon devices will soon gain a Quick Share-style transfer feature, boosting Android–iOS interoperability.
Cross-platform file sharing is expanding beyond Google's own devices as Qualcomm confirms a Snapdragon version of the feature is in development. The move follows Google's testing of Pixel-to-iPhone transfers, signaling a broader push to connect Android and iOS.
What we know
Google demonstrated full file transfer via Quick Share on Pixel 10 with iPhone compatibility; Qualcomm says Snapdragon devices will get a similar feature soon, though no device list has been published.
The effort relies on a cross‑platform adaptation of Apple’s AirDrop protocol, known as AWDL (Apple Wireless Direct Link). Google says the system will use this AirDrop‑like technology to enable direct sharing between Android and iOS without a separate app.
Regulatory context and partners
Rumors about EU rules forcing Apple to drop AWDL are unconfirmed. Official documents point to adopting Wi‑Fi Aware, a standard that can coexist with AWDL and support cross‑platform discovery and transfers.
Nothing, the British hardware maker, has joined the initiative and announced it is working on implementing the feature. Google also indicates that support will extend beyond the Pixel 10 line in the future.
Expert view
Expert commentary: Interoperability between Android and iOS is a welcome step for users, but it demands strong security and clear user consent on both sides, says Maya Chen, senior mobile analyst at Tech Insight. The real test will be how seamlessly devices discover and transfer files while protecting privacy.
Summary
Google is expanding cross‑platform sharing by moving Pixel–iPhone transfers toward Snapdragon devices, with Nothing joining the effort to implement the feature. The initiative relies on an AirDrop‑style protocol and Wi‑Fi Aware to enable discovery and transfers across platforms. If successful, Android and iPhone users will benefit from simpler, seamless file exchanges.
Key insight: Cross‑platform file transfer is progressing from a Google experiment to a Snapdragon‑ready capability, driven by broad industry collaboration.