Google Broadens Nearby Share on More Pixel Phones—But One Notable Model Still Misses Out

Google is officially expanding its AirDrop-style sharing feature to more Pixel smartphones, bringing faster and easier file transfers to last year’s flagship lineup.

After debuting on the Pixel 10 series, the same AirDrop compatibility is now confirmed for several older premium models. Google says the feature is coming to the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Once it arrives, it’s expected to work the same way it does on the Pixel 10 family, letting users quickly share files, photos, and other content between nearby devices without the usual friction.

If you’re hoping to try it immediately, there’s a catch. Google isn’t turning it on for everyone at once. Instead, the rollout will happen “over the coming weeks in phases,” which suggests a staged release that could vary by region, carrier, or software update timing. Google hasn’t shared an exact schedule, so some users may see it sooner than others.

One surprising detail is what’s missing: the Pixel 9a isn’t included in the confirmed list. Google also hasn’t said whether older Pixel phones powered by Tensor chips will get the same AirDrop-like functionality in a future update, leaving owners of earlier models waiting for clarity.

For Pixel 9 series users, though, the takeaway is simple: a more seamless, AirDrop-style sharing experience is on the way, and it should make cross-device sharing much quicker once the phased rollout reaches your phone.