Smartphone users are poised for a significant reduction in file-sharing friction between Apple’s iOS and Google’s Android ecosystems, as Google’s proactive adoption of Apple’s AirDrop protocol expands to a vast array of devices powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon processors.
Qualcomm has confirmed it is actively working to integrate this cross-platform file-sharing capability, known as Quick Share, with AirDrop support into its Snapdragon-equipped smartphones. This move will dramatically broaden the number of Android devices able to participate in seamless transfers with iPhones.
The chipmaker’s announcement followed Google’s quiet rollout of AirDrop compatibility to its Pixel 10 lineup. Qualcomm later underscored the wider implications in a social media post.
Can’t wait for people to use this once enabled on Snapdragon in the near future. https://t.co/IUvT23p5pq
— Snapdragon (@Snapdragon) November 21, 2025
This widespread implementation will not rely solely on Google’s Tensor chip. Instead, Google engineers built direct support for Apple’s proprietary AWDL protocol into Quick Share. This strategy allows Android to bridge to Apple’s system without Apple having to modify its own foundation.
The development marks an end to a long-standing barrier that has historically fragmented file sharing between the rival mobile platforms. This interoperability will likely reach most high-end Android phones and potentially mid-range models.
Speculation that European Union regulations, specifically the Digital Markets Act (DMA), forced Apple to change its protocol has been refuted. EU documentation primarily requires Apple to implement Wi-Fi Aware for basic interoperability, a standard Apple has already met.
Apple’s AWDL and Wi-Fi Aware are distinct and incompatible technologies, though they can coexist on devices. Google’s approach was to proactively support AWDL within Android’s Quick Share.
While a definitive list of Snapdragon models or an exact rollout date beyond the “near future” remains unannounced, the path towards smoother cross-platform data transfers is clear. It is uncertain if Apple will attempt to block this new compatibility, though past regulatory challenges suggest such a move would be improbable.