The Easiest Way to Share Files Between Android and iOS

Whisper quietly, but some barriers in Apple’s walled garden may be coming down.

Thanks to recent Android updates from Google, sharing files between an iPhone and an Android phone is now easier than ever—without installing a third-party app, although additional file-sharing apps remain an option.

You can use these methods to send photos, contact cards, web links, and other files between devices. The exact steps may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer and model, but at least one of the following options should work for you.

Share files between Android and iPhone with Quick Share and AirDrop

Google has found a way to bring Android’s Quick Share functionality closer to Apple’s AirDrop. The company recently added support for AirDrop-compatible sharing, bringing device-to-device file transfers to newer Pixel smartphones. Apple does not appear to be directly involved, but the feature has expanded to other compatible devices, including recent Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy phones.

Some setup may be required. On Samsung Galaxy phones, open Settings > Connected devices > Quick Share, then enable Share with Apple devices. Google Pixel phones typically do not include this toggle, because the feature works automatically on supported models. On your iPhone, open Settings > General > AirDrop and select Everyone for 10 Minutes.

After setup, tap the share button in any compatible Android app and choose Quick Share from the sharing panel. Nearby compatible iPhones should appear in the list of available devices. Select your iPhone to begin the transfer, then accept the file on the iPhone when prompted.

You can also start the process from your iPhone, provided your Android phone is configured to receive files from nearby devices. On a Google Pixel, open Settings > Connected devices. On a Samsung Galaxy phone, open Settings > Connected devices. Then select Quick Share > Who can share with you? and choose the appropriate visibility setting.

Share files between Android and iPhone with a QR code

Quick Share also includes a QR code option for sending files from Android to iPhone. This method takes a few more steps than AirDrop-compatible sharing, but it can work across a wider range of Android phones.

Open the Android sharing menu and select Quick Share. This option should appear whenever you share a photo, file, link, or other content, regardless of the app you are using. If a nearby iPhone does not appear and AirDrop-compatible sharing is unavailable, choose Use QR code under Share with iPhone or other devices. Quick Share will generate a QR code that the iPhone user can scan to open and download the shared content.