Fret Not, Google Hasn’t Abandoned Quick Share on iPhones Just Yet

Last November, a report hinted that Google might be preparing to bring Quick Share to iPhones and Macs. Since then, updates have been scarce. For those using Quick Share between Android and Windows, that’s hardly an issue. But anyone relying on a Mac or iPhone as a secondary device is still waiting to hear whether Google has made any progress.

Hidden code in Google Play Services shows signs of Quick Share coming to iPhones

Well, it looks like there is progress after all. Android Authority, which first spotted the development, has now uncovered evidence that Google has not abandoned its efforts to bring Quick Share to iPhones and Macs.

<string name="sharing_qr_code_cloud_sign_in_dialog_content">To share end-to-end encrypted files with iPhone and other devices, first sign in</string>
<string name="sharing_qr_code_cloud_sign_in_dialog_title">Sign in to share</string>

While digging through the code of Google Play Services v25.34.31 beta, the outlet found a string suggesting ongoing work. It says users will need to “sign in to share” before sending files. That is a notable change from Quick Share on Android devices, where no account is required.

The reason for requiring a Google account is still unclear. It could be related to privacy controls, such as limiting visibility to your contacts, or it could mean Google is relying on a cloud-based system for transferring files between iOS and Android. Either way, signing in appears to be part of the process.

Check out this screenshot which also reveals a hidden menu that directly mentions iPhone sharing. The timeline and rollout remain uncertain, but this is a strong indication that Google is still working on Quick Share for iPhones.

If Quick Share does arrive on iOS, it could make transferring files between Android and iPhone far less of a hassle and finally give Apple users a real alternative to AirDrop.