Google update brings iPhone-like features to Android

Android Gets AirDrop Alternative

Google and Samsung partnered to unify sharing under Quick Share, now the built-in way to send files, links, and photos between nearby devices. This AirDrop-style tool lets Android users quickly send files, links, and photos to nearby devices without needing Wi-Fi or mobile data.

Google’s new upgrade enhances sharing between devices with a clean interface and faster pairing. Quick Share works across Android and Chromebooks and is available on Windows via the Quick Share app; transfers are end-to-end encrypted.

iPhone-Style Privacy for Android

Android 14 is stepping up its privacy game with more iPhone-like controls. Android 14’s Selected Photos Access lets you grant apps access only to specific photos/videos instead of your entire library. It also includes improved permissions notifications, so you know exactly what’s being accessed.

Google is also introducing stronger background data protections. These features mirror Apple’s privacy-first approach and aim to give users tighter control over their personal information, making Android much more transparent and secure.

FaceTime-Like Calls on Android

Google Meet offers high-quality video, live captions, screen sharing, and Gmail/Calendar integration, plus a Switch here option to move calls between devices.

You can start or join Meet calls from the Meet app or Gmail/Calendar; some apps let you generate Meet links within conversations. It’s a more seamless way to stay connected across the Android ecosystem.

Android Gets Continuity Features

Continuity, a long-time iOS feature, is finally coming to Android. Google is building tools that let you switch tasks across devices with minimal disruption. For example, you can start browsing on your phone and pick up where you left off on your Chromebook.

Notifications, messages, and app activities now sync more reliably, with some features powered by Google Play Services. It’s still in its early stages, but this shift shows Android’s push toward creating a more unified, Apple-like experience.

Google Boosts Cross-Device Sharing

Quick Share moves files seamlessly; Phone Hub surfaces notifications, recent photos, and can stream selected apps to a Chromebook on supported devices.

You can now send files directly to a Chromebook without manual pairing, with the feature remembering your frequently shared devices, enhancing the multi-device experience for Android users.

iMessage-Like Chat Update Coming

With every update, Google is pushing RCS messaging to replace outdated SMS, which looks more like iMessage. Features like typing indicators, high-res media, and read receipts are live. Google Messages already supports reactions, works over mobile data or Wi-Fi, and offers end-to-end encryption for 1:1 and group chats when all participants use Google Messages with RCS on.

With Apple now supporting RCS in iOS 18, Android–iPhone texting sees higher-quality media and typing indicators; however, cross-platform RCS isn’t end-to-end encrypted.

Android Improves App Handoff

Android works on better app continuity, allowing users to switch apps between phones, tablets, and Chromebooks. Google’s cross-device SDK is enabling app developers to build ‘handoff’ experiences; availability varies by app and is still rolling out.

Google is using Cross-Device Services and the cross-device SDK to enable secure app-to-app transfers; this mirrors Apple-style handoff in concept but is not yet universal.

Phone Calls on Android Tablets

Google’s Cross-Device Services currently lets you switch video calls (e.g., Google Meet) between devices and quickly enable your phone’s hotspot. Full cellular call relay is mainly available in OEM ecosystems (e.g., Samsung).

It’s rolling out to Pixel and select Android devices, offering a more unified experience for users juggling multiple screens.

iPhone-Like Focus Modes Here

Focus Modes, first seen on iPhones, are now smarter on Android. With Android’s Digital Wellbeing, you can set different profiles for work, home, or sleep, muting distracting apps and only allowing key notifications.

The update introduces location and time-based triggers for automation, similar to Apple’s approach. This reduces digital distractions and enhances user control, which is particularly beneficial for remote work and increased screen time.

Android Widgets Get Smarter

Android widgets continue to be interactive and dynamic; Google’s own apps (Calendar, Weather, Gmail, Tasks) offer updated, tap-responsive widgets and real-time info. Google is updating its apps like Calendar, Weather, and Gmail with interactive widgets that respond to taps and swipes.

You can now check off tasks, reply to emails, or control music without opening the app. Android 14 also supports more adaptive layouts and real-time updates, making widgets feel less static and more like extensions of the apps themselves.

Android Adds Screen Sharing

Screen sharing is getting a major boost on Android. Google Meet on Android supports screen sharing/presenting; Apple’s FaceTime has both screen sharing and SharePlay for synchronized media, distinct features. It’s great for remote presentations, family tech help, or even watching content together.

The feature is smooth, works over mobile data or Wi-Fi, and supports multitasking. Google is also planning more integration with third-party apps, which could bring screen sharing to other messaging platforms in the future.

Google Messages iPhone-Like Features

Google Messages is getting a major overhaul, and many new features feel straight out of iMessage. We’re talking message reactions, better emoji support, voice message transcription, and even scheduling texts.

In Google Messages, RCS chats between Google Messages users support end-to-end encryption (1:1 and groups). Features include reactions, better emoji, voice-message transcription, scheduling, and optional AI features like Magic Compose.

Android Ecosystem Gets Tighter

Like Apple’s ecosystem, Google focuses on making Android devices work better together. With tools like Fast Pair, Nearby Share, and Cross-Device Services, users can link phones, tablets, Chromebooks, and even TVs.

This means shared notifications, call syncing, and easier file transfers. Google is also pushing tighter integration with Wear OS smartwatches and Android Auto, which is creating a more seamless experience for users who stay within the Android family of products.

Google Streamlines Device Linking

Device linking on Android just got easier due to Google’s latest updates. When you sign into a new device with your Google account, it automatically suggests linking with your phone for faster setup, password sharing, and media syncing.

It works across tablets, Chromebooks, and even smart TVs. This streamlining mirrors how Apple devices link through iCloud, giving Android users a similar level of ecosystem convenience without jumping through setup hoops.

As Google streamlines devices for smoother performance, Can Dell Chromebook Plus Boosts Your Workflow?

Seamless Camera Transfer

Google is testing camera handoff features for Android devices, similar to what Apple offers with its ecosystem. With this, users could start recording on one device, like a Pixel phone, and seamlessly switch to another, like a tablet or Chromebook.

While not fully available yet, cross-device SDKs and tighter integration with Google Photos are laying the groundwork for this feature, which would be huge for content creators who rely on multiple screens for filming and editing.

Seamless camera transfer feels even better on affordable Chromebooks that still deliver top-tier performance. Here’s how: Affordable Chromebooks That Deliver Top Performance.

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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.