Google Could Bring AirDrop Support to the Pixel 9 Series

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-Kabir Jain

Published: Friday, January 9, 2026, 10:50 [IST]

Google might be getting closer to closing one of the more annoying gaps between Android and iPhone users. A new report suggests that the Pixel 9 series could soon support file sharing with Apple devices using AirDrop, thanks to ongoing work inside Google’s Quick Share system.

This wouldn’t be a brand-new idea. Back in November, Google said Android users could start sharing files wirelessly with iPhone users using Quick Share and AirDrop. The catch was that this only worked on the latest Pixel 10 models. Now, signs point to that functionality expanding to older Pixels, starting with the Pixel 9 lineup.

What’s Changing for the Pixel 9 Series

According to a report from Android Authority, new system files have been spotted in the latest Android Canary build that appear to enable AirDrop support through Quick Share on Pixel 9 phones. The build in question includes components that weren’t present in earlier firmware versions for the same devices.

These files are reportedly required for Quick Share to send files from an iPhone to a Pixel 9 device. While the feature hasn’t been fully tested yet, their presence strongly suggests Google is preparing broader support beyond the Pixel 10 series.

One thing worth noting is that the Pixel 9a may not be part of this rollout. The report says the non-flagship model could miss out, at least initially.

Older Pixels Still Left Out, for Now

Interestingly, the same system files don’t seem to appear on older models like the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. That suggests Google is taking a step-by-step approach rather than opening this up to all Pixel phones at once.

This lines up with Google’s earlier comments. When the feature was first announced in November, the company said support would expand to more Android devices over time, but it didn’t share a timeline or list of eligible phones.

How AirDrop and Quick Share Work Together

The AirDrop compatibility inside Quick Share allows file transfers between Android phones and Apple devices, including iPhones, iPads, and even Macs. The system relies on AirDrop’s “Everyone for 10 minutes” mode, which keeps the process simple and temporary.

Google has previously said this setup doesn’t rely on a workaround. Instead, it uses a direct peer-to-peer connection. That means files aren’t routed through a server, and the shared data isn’t logged, which should ease privacy concerns for users on both platforms.

What This Means for Everyday Users

If this feature rolls out as expected, Pixel 9 owners could finally share photos, videos, and documents with iPhone users without jumping through extra apps or cloud links. For people who switch between Android and Apple devices, or live in mixed-device households, that’s a practical improvement rather than a flashy one.

There’s still no official confirmation from Google on when this will go live. But the appearance of these system files suggests an announcement may not be too far away.