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Transferring files between different devices can sometimes be a hassle, especially when you are trying to move files between devices with different operating systems, like Android and Mac.
In this tutorial, we will guide you on how to transfer files from Android to Mac using the AirDrop protocol with two open-source applications: NearDrop and WarpShare.
These applications use the Apple Wireless Direct Link (AWDL) technology to establish a connection between Android and Mac devices, despite having some differences and limitations.
NearDrop (Download)
NearDrop is an unofficial Google Nearby Share app for macOS. It allows you to receive files from Android devices that support the Nearby Share feature, which is Google’s equivalent of AirDrop.
How to Use NearDrop
Step 1: Download and Install NearDrop
First, download the NearDrop app from GitHub and unzip it. Move the unzipped file to your Applications folder and run it. You may need to right-click the app and select “Open” to bypass the security warning.
You will also need to accept the security warning prompt in the Apple Settings.
Click Allow for it to work properly.
Step 2: Run NearDrop
NearDrop will run in your menu bar and wait for incoming files. There is no need to install anything on your Android device, just ensure the Nearby Share feature is enabled or your phone has this capability.
Nearby Share was officially released for devices running Android Marshmallow and later on August 4, 2020.
Step 3: Send Files from Android
To send a file from your Android device to your Mac, open any app that supports sharing, such as Photos, Files, or Chrome.
Then, tap the Share button and select Nearby Share. Your Mac’s name should appear on the list of nearby devices.
Tap it and wait for the connection to be established. You may need to accept the file transfer on your Mac by clicking the notification > option > accept.
Step 4: Save Received Files
The received files will be saved in your Downloads folder by default. However, you can change this in the NearDrop preferences.
WarpShare (Download)
WarpShare is a partial implementation of AirDrop for Android. It allows you to send files from your Android device to your Mac using the AirDrop protocol, without requiring any additional software on your Mac.
How to Use WarpShare
Step 1: Compile and Install WarpShare
To use WarpShare, you need to compile the app from its source code and install it on your Android device. This may require some technical skills and tools, such as Android Studio and Gradle. But you can download the compiled APK as well. (Github v2.0.4 as of writing 21)
Step 2: Enable AirDrop on Mac
Make sure that your Mac has AirDrop enabled and set to “Everyone”. You can do this by opening Finder and clicking on AirDrop in the sidebar. Then, click on “Allow me to be discovered by” and select “Everyone”.
Step 3: Send Files from Android
Open WarpShare on your Android device and tap the Apple device it detected. Then, select the file you want to send and tap “Send”.
Your Mac’s name should appear on the list of nearby devices. Tap it and wait for the file transfer to start. You may need to accept the file transfer on your Mac by clicking the notification.
Step 4: Save Received Files
The received files will be saved in your Downloads folder by default.
Editors Note
We hope this guide helps you transfer files from Android to Mac using the AirDrop protocol. Please note that both NearDrop and WarpShare are experimental applications and may not work reliably or securely. Use them at your own risk.
Also, as of the moment, this will only work for Android > Mac not vice-versa. Hopefully, in future updates, it will also be compatible with iPhone and transfer from Mac to Android devices.
I also tested this using the latest Mac Sonoma and it worked flawlessly without any issues.
