AirDrop Compatibility Expands to Android Devices in Landmark Interoperability update
CUPERTINO,CA – November 28,2025 – Apple today announced a meaningful update to AirDrop,its popular file-sharing service,extending compatibility to Android devices. The move marks a major step toward interoperability between iOS and Android ecosystems, addressing long-standing user requests for seamless file transfer regardless of operating system. The update, rolling out with iOS 18.2 and a companion Android app available now on the Google Play Store, utilizes a new Bluetooth-based protocol ensuring secure and efficient data transfer.
For years, AirDrop has been exclusive to Apple devices, creating friction for users who frequently collaborate with those on Android. This expansion addresses that pain point,streamlining workflows for professionals,families,and friends. The update is expected to significantly impact how people share photos, videos, documents, and other files, perhaps reducing reliance on cloud storage and third-party transfer apps. Apple confirmed the decision stemmed from a desire to improve the overall user experiance and foster greater connectivity.
The new AirDrop functionality works by leveraging a combination of Bluetooth Low Energy for discovery and peer-to-peer Wi-Fi Direct for fast data transfer. apple has implemented robust security measures,including end-to-end encryption and mutual authentication,to protect user privacy during file sharing.Users on both platforms will be able to share a wide range of file types, with size limits mirroring existing AirDrop capabilities.
Other stories discussed in the 9to5Mac Daily podcast episode for November 28, 2025, include:
* Details on the new features and improvements included in the iOS 18.2 update.
* Analysis of the potential impact of expanded AirDrop compatibility on the mobile technology landscape.
* A look at the latest developments in Apple’s ongoing efforts to enhance user privacy and security.
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