TECH

Google might soon expand Quick Share to iPhone and Mac

Sharing files between Android and iPhones might soon get easier. Android expert Mishaal Rahman has found a clue suggesting that Google could be preparing to bring its Quick Share file-sharing tool for iOS and macOS.

Quick Share is already popular on Android devices, Chromebooks, and Windows PCs, allowing users to transfer files easily over a secure local network. However, its absence on Apple’s platforms has been a longstanding pain point for users juggling both ecosystems.

Latest API update hints that Quick Share might come to iOS...That may soon change, though. Quick Share, previously called Nearby Share, uses Google’s Nearby Connections API, a peer-to-peer networking protocol. It’s an open-source API, available on GitHub, so you can track the latest updates Google makes to the platform. According to Rahman, a recent bug fix in the API hints strongly at an iOS expansion.

A comment in Google’s Nearby repository reveals how the app retrieves device names, specifically for iOS and macOS. It states, “For iOS and macOS, the device name is already localized and generally works well for Quick Share purposes… avoid using the non-localized account name and device type concatenation.”

While this comment doesn’t confirm a Quick Share app for iOS or macOS, it stirs speculation. Google could be laying the groundwork for future expansion or even working on a concrete plan for integration with Apple devices.

Integrating Quick Share into Apple’s tightly controlled ecosystem, however, could be challenging. Google might face the App Store’s guidelines and Apple’s strict privacy policies. It’s uncertain whether Google would pursue a standalone app or integrate Quick Share into an existing app like Google Drive or Chrome.

Seamless file sharing might seem simple, but if implemented, Quick Share could offer a fast, hassle-free way to transfer files across platforms, avoiding cumbersome solutions like cloud storage. Google has historically shown more openness to cross-platform collaboration than Apple. If such a bridge between the two tech giants is built, it’s likely Google will take the lead.

Interestingly, OnePlus has already taken steps in this direction. Its latest software update, OxygenOS 15, includes a “Share with iPhone” feature through a dedicated iOS app. While Rahman notes that some users hesitate to add another app, the convenience of smooth file transfers between Android and iPhone might outweigh this concern.

Only time will reveal if Google officially brings Quick Share to iOS and macOS. Although the code change sparks optimism, it’s wise to temper expectations until an official announcement.

mundophone