Let’s be honest—Apple’s AirDrop is one of the coolest features ever. You click, select, and boom—your photo, file, or video is sent instantly to another iPhone nearby. No cables, no fuss, just fast file sharing.
But what if you’re an Android user and feel left out? Can you get something like AirDrop on your Android phone? The short answer: Yes, you absolutely can! It may not be called “AirDrop,” but there are some amazing alternatives available that do the same job—and sometimes even better.
In this blog post, we’re going to break down how to enjoy the AirDrop-like experience on Android using easy apps and built-in features. No tech jargon, just simple steps anyone can follow.
What is AirDrop, Anyway?
Before we jump into the Android options, let’s quickly understand what AirDrop actually does.
AirDrop is Apple’s file-sharing feature that uses a combination of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to send files from one Apple device to another nearby. You don’t need the internet for it. It works fast, and your files stay private.
So now the big question: Can Android phones do the same thing?
Absolutely! Android has a few tricks up its sleeve that work just like AirDrop—some are even faster and more flexible.
Option 1: Use Nearby Share (Google’s AirDrop for Android)
Google created its own version of AirDrop called Nearby Share—and it’s built into most Android phones running Android 6.0 and above.
How to Use Nearby Share:
- Turn on Bluetooth and Location on both Android devices.
- Open the file, photo, or video you want to share.
- Tap the Share icon.
- Select Nearby Share from the list.
- It will look for nearby devices. Choose the one you want to send the file to.
- Accept the file on the receiving device, and you’re done!
Why You’ll Love Nearby Share:
- It’s super fast.
- No need for third-party apps.
- It works offline (just like AirDrop).
- It’s safe and secure.
Tip: Make sure both devices have Nearby Share turned on in the Settings > Google > Devices & sharing.
Option 2: Try Snapdrop (No App Needed)
Snapdrop is like magic. It’s a web-based tool that works across all devices—Android, iPhone, Windows, Mac—you name it.
How Snapdrop Works:
- Open snapdrop.net in your phone’s browser.
- Do the same on the other device (can be Android, iPhone, or even a laptop).
- Both devices will instantly see each other on the screen.
- Tap the device name and select a file to send.
- Accept the file on the other side, and it transfers instantly.
Why Snapdrop is Great:
- No app to install.
- Works across different platforms (Android to iPhone? No problem!).
- Super clean and easy interface.
- Uses Wi-Fi, so it’s fast.
Just make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network.
Option 3: Use the Send Anywhere App
If you want a more powerful tool for file sharing, especially for big files, Send Anywhere is a great choice.
How to Use It:
- Download Send Anywhere from the Play Store.
- Open the app and select the files you want to share.
- You’ll get a 6-digit code or a QR code.
- On the receiving device, enter the code or scan the QR to receive the file.
Best Things About Send Anywhere:
- Works between Android, iPhone, and computers.
- Great for large files.
- Doesn’t need Wi-Fi (you can use mobile data too).
- Very user-friendly.
It’s a solid AirDrop replacement with a few extra features.
Option 4: ShareMe (by Xiaomi – But Works on Any Phone)
If you’re using a Xiaomi phone, you probably already have ShareMe installed. But even if you’re not, you can still download it and use it for super-fast file sharing.
How to Use ShareMe:
- Open the app and select “Send” or “Receive.”
- Choose the files you want to send.
- The app creates a local Wi-Fi connection.
- Scan the QR code or connect via radar to receive the file.
It’s quick, clean, and works even without an internet connection.
Option 5: Bluetooth (The Classic Way)
Okay, it’s old-school, but let’s not forget that Bluetooth still works. It’s not the fastest option, but if nothing else is available, it gets the job done.
How to Share Using Bluetooth:
- Turn on Bluetooth on both devices.
- Pair the devices.
- Tap “Share” on the file and select Bluetooth.
- Choose the paired device and accept the file.
Not fancy, but reliable in a pinch.
Final Thoughts
Just because you’re not using an iPhone doesn’t mean you have to miss out on fast and easy file sharing. Whether you go with Nearby Share, Snapdrop, or an app like Send Anywhere, there are plenty of AirDrop-like options for Android users.
Here’s a Quick Recap:
- Nearby Share – Best built-in option for Android-to-Android sharing.
- Snapdrop – Best for cross-platform sharing with zero setup.
- Send Anywhere – Best for sharing large files or long-distance transfers.
- ShareMe – A handy app with fast local transfers.
- Bluetooth – Old but still usable when other options aren’t available.
So, next time someone says “AirDrop it to me” and you’re rocking an Android, just smile and say, “I’ve got something even better.”
Do you already use one of these tools or planning to try one? Let me know your favorite method for sharing files in the comments below!
Mobile control
Sumit kumar