When Google announced support for Apple’s AirDrop through Quick Share on Android, one of the biggest questions was when it might expand beyond the Pixel 10 series. Based on some findings in new Android builds, it seems that the Pixel 9 series is next in line for AirDrop support, though when it might arrive is anyone’s guess.
Google launched support for AirDrop through Quick Share as a Pixel 10 exclusive at first. The functionality rolled out last year and, despite Google working this out completely independent of Apple, it works rather well.
In the latest Android Canary builds, the folks over at Android Authority noted that the same system files that are used on Pixel 10 to enable AirDrop support have made their way over to Pixel 9 devices. Specifically, to Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold. The Pixel 9a and other older Pixel devices are excluded, at least for now.
The files were added in Canary build ZP11.251212.007, but the actual AirDrop functionality remains absent from Pixel 9 devices. However, the addition of these files implies that Google is actively working to support the Pixel 9 series with AirDrop. Just, you know, eventually.
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