Is there a real AirDrop alternative for Windows?
Yes. Open nowiretransfer.xyz on both devices, add the file, then enter the 6-character code on the Windows PC. There is no app or account.
An AirDrop Alternative That Works on Windows
Last updated: September 2026
AirDrop does not work on Windows. Open nowiretransfer.xyz on both devices, add the file, then enter the 6-character code on the PC. You do not need an app, Apple ID, cable, or account.
AirDrop vs Bluetooth vs cloud vs browser transfer
| Metric | nowiretransfer (browser) | AirDrop | Bluetooth | Cloud storage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Works on Windows | Yes, in any modern browser | No, Apple devices only | Yes, but unreliable with iPhones | Yes, usually with an app |
| App or account required | Neither | Apple ID / Apple hardware | Pairing required | Account required |
| Typical speed | Limited by your internet connection | Fast between Apple devices | ~2 Mbps (Bluetooth 5.0) | Capped by your upload speed |
| File size limit | 250 MB per file, unlimited files | No hard limit | No fixed limit; about 2 Mbps | Depends on the service or plan |
Bluetooth throughput figures follow the Bluetooth SIG technology overview.
How to send a file to a Windows PC without AirDrop
1. Open nowiretransfer on the sending device
Open nowiretransfer.xyz in a browser on your iPhone, Mac, Android phone, or PC. There is nothing to install.
2. Add your files or text
Drop files into the Send box, or paste some text. Each file can be up to 250 MB, and you can attach more than one file.
3. Choose an expiry and create the share
Choose an expiry of 1 hour, 24 hours, 3 days, or 7 days. Press Save & get code to receive a 6-character code, a link, and a QR code.
4. Open the code on Windows
Open nowiretransfer.xyz on the Windows PC. Type the 6-character code into the Receive box, then press Get.
5. Download on the PC
Download each file at full original quality. The share deletes itself automatically at expiry.
AirDrop for Windows FAQ
Can I AirDrop from iPhone to a Windows laptop?
AirDrop does not support Windows. Add the file on your iPhone, then enter the code on your Windows laptop to download it.
Is a browser transfer as fast as AirDrop?
It depends on your internet connection. Bluetooth 5.0 is about 2 Mbps, while this browser transfer is limited by your upload and download speeds.
Is it safe to send files this way?
Uploads and downloads use encrypted connections. Shares are unlisted, require the code, and are deleted at the expiry you choose.
About the author
Written and built by
Alisha Albert George
I'm an independent developer who builds small web tools for everyday problems.
I built nowiretransfer after getting tired of emailing screenshots and links from my Windows laptop to my iPhone. Add a file or paste some text, then open it on the other device with a short code. No account needed.
- Encrypted uploads and downloads
- Private, unlisted shares
- Automatic deletion at the selected expiry
Next steps
Ready to try it? Send your first file.