How to AirDrop Between Windows, MacOS, IOS, and Android Devices
Apple fans have it easy when it comes to file management. Ever since Apple introduced AirDrop in OS X Lion back in July 2011, moving files between connected desktops and laptops (as well as iPhones and iPads) has never been easier.
Windows users are finally getting their own functionality similar to AirDrop: Near Share, which debuted in the company’s big update for Windows 10 in April 2018 . But if your family shares the loyalty – Windows, Android, and Apple products under the same roof – you’re stuck. Near Share doesn’t work with macOS, Android, or iOS (for now), and AirDrop doesn’t work with anything Microsoft touches.
Fortunately, you have several ways to make your multiple platforms interact well with each other – at least when it comes to your files.
Configure a shared network drive
The easiest way to transfer files from your MacBook to your Windows desktop (or from your Windows laptop to your MacBook, or whatever combination of computers you use) is to share folders. You can set up a shared folder on one system as a shared dump for files, or you can create a shared folder on each of your systems for more flexibility. You can also share multiple folders at the same time if you don’t want to mess with them, however you are currently organizing files on your desktop or laptop.
Shared folders aren’t as elegant as AirDrop or Near Share transfers, but they get the job done. Apple, while enjoying its walled gardens, actually has pretty good instructions for setting up macOS-to-Windows shares and Windows-to-macOS shares (for lack of a better way to describe them).
Just download Dropbox
If you don’t want to mess with setting up shared folders and want an easy way to transfer small files like pictures or documents between your macOS and Windows systems, give Dropbox a try.
Install the Dropbox desktop app and you have a handy little Dropbox folder where you can hide any files (as long as you don’t exceed the Dropbox 2GB free user limit). These files not only sync to the cloud so you can access them from anywhere from the good old dropbox dot com, but they will also sync to any system that also has the Dropbox app installed. TA-dah.
Use Snapdrop to send files without installing anything
The web- based Snapdrop tool is very similar to AirDrop for your browser, and I’m surprised Apple didn’t try to consign it to oblivion. However, if you open the website on different computers or mobile devices (connected to the same network, of course), you will be able to drag and drop files from one to the other. (I was unable to get Snapdrop to work on iOS – even in Safari – but I had no problems with macOS, Windows, or Android.)
The only drawback to Snapdrop is that someone on the receiving computer has to manually click the invitation to receive the sent files. So, Snapdrop is a little less useful if you’re trying to send files to your own computers – at least if they’re not in the same room – but it’s incredibly useful if you need to send files to a friend or family member. … You can also send messages to any other systems currently using Snapdrop, which gives you a lot of room for creativity.
And no, the files you send are not stored on some server Snapdrop hidden or something in this sort .
AirDroid is a great cross-platform tool
AirDroid reminds me a lot of the Pushbullet browser extension , which allows you to send messages and files between your computers and mobile devices regardless of platform. While AirDroid isn’t quite as elegant as AirDrop, it does a commendable job of bridging the gap between your Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android devices.
While you can sign up for an AirDroid account if you like, desktop apps don’t require you to have a login to use their basic functionality. Just hit the Fast Transfer button on the main login screen, and all devices that are also running AirDroid and connected to your network should appear in the list. Click one to open a small chat window that can be used to send messages and files (but not folders; you’ll have to pay $ 20 a year to unlock this feature in AirDroid Pro).
Given the AirDroid name, this shouldn’t come as a surprise, but using a mobile app on an Android device opens up even more possibilities. Install it, log into your AirDroid account, and you can manage your files, receive Android notifications, send and receive text messages, and view missed calls right from the desktop app.