Windows still does not ship a single “AirDrop” button, but you can get the same result with Phone Link, Nearby Share, or a tiny local app. Pick the method that matches how often you jump between phone and PC.
Option 1: Phone Link (best daily driver)
- On Windows, open Phone Link (or install it from the Microsoft Store).
- On Android, install Link to Windows and sign in with the same Microsoft account.
- Allow notifications and file access when prompted.
- From the phone app, tap Share → Link to Windows, or drag files into the Phone Link window on the PC.
This stays signed in, so it is ideal if the same laptop and phone are yours.
Option 2: Nearby Share / Quick Share
Google’s Quick Share (formerly Nearby Share) can send to Windows if both devices are on the same Wi‑Fi and Bluetooth is on. On the PC, install Quick Share for Windows, set visibility to Everyone nearby for a minute, then send from the Android share sheet.
Option 3: LocalSend (no account)
Install LocalSend on both devices from the official site or F‑Droid/Play Store. Same Wi‑Fi, tap the device name, send. Nothing uploads to a cloud folder, which is useful for large video dumps.
If something fails
If Phone Link stalls on “connecting”, toggle Bluetooth on both sides, forget the device pair, and reconnect on the same Wi‑Fi band (avoid guest networks that isolate clients).
FAQ
Is there a real AirDrop for Windows?
Not from Apple. Phone Link + Quick Share or LocalSend cover nearly the same jobs.
Do I need the same Google account?
Only for some Google tools. Phone Link uses a Microsoft account; LocalSend needs none.
What about iPhone?
Use Phone Link’s iOS support or iCloud for Windows; the Android tips above will not apply one‑to‑one.
Related guides on VpnWP
Photo: Unsplash. Steps checked against current Windows 11 / Android settings menus; UI labels can shift slightly after OS updates.
