Transferring files between smartphones on different operating systems - Android i iOS - often becomes a headache for users. Despite the fact that both platforms are developing, their ecosystems remain closed to each other. This is where third-party apps come in, and one of the most popular solutions is ShareIt (now known as SHAREit Lite in some regions). This tool allows you to share photos, videos, documents and even applications without using cloud services or cables.

In this article we will look at how to properly configure connection between Android and iPhone via ShareIt, what nuances should be taken into account when transferring large files, and what to do if devices “do not see” each other. We will pay special attention data transfer speed - it can differ by 2-3 times depending on the selected protocol (Wi-Fi Direct or Hotspot). You will also learn how to avoid common mistakes that slow down the process or lead to file loss.

Important: If you are using older versions of ShareIt (pre-2023), some features may work differently. Modern versions of the application are optimized for cross-platform transfer, but require updated software on both devices.

What is ShareIt and why is it better than AirDrop for Android+iPhone

ShareIt is an application for wireless file transferwhich was originally developed as an alternative AirDrop for devices on Android. Over time, it began to support i iOS, which made it a universal solution for exchanging data between different platforms. Unlike AirDropwhich works only in the ecosystem Apple, ShareIt allows:

  • 📱 Transfer files between Android and iPhone without restrictions on data type.
  • 🚀 Reach speeds up to 20 MB/s (under ideal conditions), which is 4-5 times faster than through Bluetooth.
  • 🌍 Work without the Internet - the connection is established directly between devices.
  • 📂 Transfer entire folders, and not just individual files (unlike many analogues).

However, ShareIt also has disadvantages. For example, advertising has appeared in the latest versions of the application, and some functions (for example, transferring applications) may be limited due to policy iOS because of politics Apple. In addition, the transfer speed greatly depends on the smartphone model —on older devices it can drop to 2-3 MB/s.

⚠️ Attention: In some countries ShareIt has been removed from App Store and Google Play due to data security issues. Before installation, check the developer's official website or trusted sources (for example, APKMirror for Android).

If you are looking for alternatives, pay attention to Send Anywhere, Xender or Snapdrop (web version without installation). But in this article we will focus specifically on ShareIt as the most common solution.

📊 In what way do you most often transfer files between smartphones?
By cable
Via instant messengers (Telegram, WhatsApp)
I use ShareIt/Xender
Cloud services (Google Drive, iCloud)
Other

Preparing devices before connecting

Before you start transferring files, you need to make sure that both smartphones are ready for connection. Skipping this step often results in errors like "Device not found" or "Could not connect". Here's what you need to do:

  1. Update ShareIt on both devices. Outdated versions may not support cross-platform transfer.
  2. Turn on Wi-Fi and Bluetooth —even if the transfer is via Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth used for the initial handshake of devices.
  3. Disable VPN and firewalls —they can block the local connection.
  4. Charge the battery at least to 30%. Transferring large files uses a lot of energy.

On Android It is also recommended:

  • 🔧 Allow ShareIt access to Storage, Locations and Wi-Fi application settings.
  • 📶 Enable the "Visibility to everyone" mode in the settings Wi-Fi Direct (if there is such an item).

On iPhone:

  • 🍎 Allow ShareIt access to Photo, Files i Local network to Settings → Privacy.
  • 🔄 Reboot the device if ShareIt does not see the smartphone - this resets network caches. Android-smartphone - this resets network caches.
⚠️ Attention: On iPhone s iOS 17+ ShareIt may request additional permissions to work in the background. If you do not provide them, the connection will be disconnected after 30 seconds of inactivity.

☑️ Preparing to transfer files

Done: 0 / 5

Step-by-step guide: how to connect Android and iPhone in ShareIt

Now let's move on to the connection process itself. The instructions are universal for most versions of ShareIt, but the interface may differ slightly. If you have a different version of the application, be guided by the logic of actions.

Step 1: Launch ShareIt on both devices

Open the application on Android i iPhone. On the main screen you will see two main modes:

  • Send —for transferring files.
  • Receive —for receiving files.

Select on one device "Send", and on the other - "Receive". It does not matter which device is the sender and which is the recipient.

Step 2: Search for devices

On the sending device, ShareIt will start scanning nearby devices. iPhone (or Androidif he is the recipient). If the device is not displayed:

  • 🔄 Restart the search by clicking on the update icon.
  • 📡 Make sure that the devices are no more than 5 meters from each other.
  • 🔌 Try switching roles: make the sender iPhone, and the recipient - Android.

Step 3: Connect and transfer files

When the devices find each other, click on the name of the target smartphone in the list. The recipient device will be prompted to confirm the connection - agree. After that:

  1. On the sending device, select files to transfer (photos, videos, documents).
  2. Click "Send" and wait until the process is completed.
  3. To On the recipient device, the files will be saved to the folder ShareIt or Downloads (depending on the settings).

The transfer speed will be displayed in real time. If the process is stuck on 0% or 99%, try:

  • 🔄 Restart the transfer.
  • 📶 Switch from Wi-Fi Direct to Hotspot (more on this below).
  • 🔋 Check battery charge - at the level below 15% iOS may suspend background processes.
💡

If ShareIt keeps dropping the connection, try turning off the power saving mode on both devices. On Android this is done in Settings → Battery → Energy saving mode, on iPhone in Settings → Battery → Low power mode.

Wi-Fi Direct vs Hotspot: which connection method to choose

ShareIt supports two main methods of connecting devices: via Wi-Fi Direct and through Hotspot (access point). The choice of method determines the transmission speed and stability of the connection. Let's take a look at which option is best for your situation.

Parameter Wi-Fi Direct Hotspot (access point)
Transmission speed High (10-20 MB/s) Average (5-10 MB/s)
Stability May break on older devices More stable, but depends on signal
Battery consumption Low High (especially on iPhone)
Device support Not all iPhone support Wi-Fi Direct correct Works on all devices

By default, ShareIt tries to use Wi-Fi Directas it is faster. However, in practice, many users encounter the fact that iPhone cannot connect to Android through this protocol. In this case:

  1. On the sending device, go to ShareIt Settings → Connection Method.
  2. Select "Hotspot" instead of "Wi-Fi Direct".
  3. On iPhone connect to the access point that the Androidsmartphone will create.

If this method does not work, try reverse Hotspot:

  • Create an access point on iPhone (Settings → Modem mode).
  • Connect the Androiddevice to it.
  • Run ShareIt on both smartphones and try transferring again.
⚠️ Attention: On iOS 16+ when using Hotspot a warning "The Internet connection is not secure.". This is normal - ShareIt creates a local network without access to the Internet.
💡

For maximum transfer speeds, use Wi-Fi Direct, but if the connection is not established, switch to Hotspot. On iPhone, this method often works more stable.

Common errors and how to fix them

Even with proper configuration, the connection via ShareIt may fail. Below we have collected the most common errors and ways to fix them. If your problem is not in the list, check FAQ section at the end of the article.

Error: "Device not found"

Causes and solutions:

  • 📵 Wi-Fi or Bluetooth is turned off —enable them on both devices.
  • 🔒 Firewall blocks the connection —temporarily disable it (this may be a built-in antivirus). Android it may be a built-in antivirus).
  • 📱 Device too far —maximum distance for Wi-Fi Direct — 5 meters.
  • 🔄 Outdated version of ShareIt —update the application or reinstall it.

Error: "Could not connect" (on iPhone)

This problem is specific to iOS and is associated with system limitations. Try:

  • 🔧 Reset network settings to iPhone (Settings → General → Transfer or reset → Reset network settings).
  • 📡 Use Hotspot instead Wi-Fi Direct (instructions above).
  • 🍎 Update iOS —in older versions of the system there are bugs with local networks.

Error: "The transfer is stuck at 99%"

Most often this happens due to:

  • 🔋 Low battery —connect devices to charge.
  • 📂 Large file size —try transferring files one at a time.
  • 📶 Network interference —move to another location or restart the transfer.

If all else fails, try alternative method:

  1. Create an access point at Android access point.
  2. Connect to it iPhone.
  3. Open in a browser at iPhone address 192.168.43.1:8080 (or another one that ShareIt specifies).
  4. Upload files via the web interface.
Why is ShareIt slow to transfer files to iPhone?

On iPhone, the speed is limited by Apple policy - local networks are slower than on Android. Additionally, iOS caches files before saving, which adds latency. If speed is critical, use a cable (Lightning/USB-C) or cloud services.

Security when transferring files via ShareIt

ShareIt is convenient, but not always secure. In 2020-2022, the application was criticized for data leaks i hidden advertising. Although the developers claim that the problems have been resolved, it is worth taking precautions:

  • 🔒 Do not transfer confidential files (passwords, documents, banking data) through ShareIt. To do this, it is better to use encrypted messengers (Telegram, Signal).
  • 📱 Disable automatic reception of files in the ShareIt settings to avoid unwanted transfers.
  • 🌐 Do not connect to public networks during transfer - this may lead to interception data.
  • 🔄 Delete transfer history ShareIt after use (Settings → Clear history).

If you transfer files between your devices regularly, consider alternatives:

  • 📁 Local network via FTP (applications FX File Explorer or Files by Google).
  • ☁️ Cloud services with end-to-end encryption (Proton Drive, Tresorit).
  • 🔌 Cable connection (via adapter Lightning-to-USB-C and file manager).
⚠️ Attention: Some versions of ShareIt for Android have a function "Fast transfer", which automatically accepts files from any devices within range. Disable it if not. want to receive spam.

ShareIt alternatives for transferring files between Android and iPhone

If ShareIt is not suitable for some reason, there are several worthy alternatives. We have selected the most reliable and fastest solutions:

Application Speed Features Cons
Send Anywhere ⚡ 10-15 MB/s Encryption, transfer by link, no advertising 10 GB limit in the free version
Xender ⚡ 8-12 MB/s Support for transferring applications (Android only) Advertising, sometimes slow
Snapdrop ⚡ 5-10 MB/s Works through a browser, without installation You need to open the site on both devices
Nearby Share (Google) ⚡ 12-18 MB/s Built into Android, supports iPhone via the web On iPhone it works only via browser

If you need maximum speed and security, pay attention to Send Anywhere - this is one of the few applications that offers file encryption for a one-time transfer Snapdrop - you don’t need to install anything, just open the site on both devices.

For users Android 13+ a good alternative would be Nearby Share from Google. It is built into the system and supports file transfer to iPhone via the web interface. To use it:

  1. On Android open the file, click "Share" and select Nearby Share.
  2. On iPhone open the browser and go to link nearby.share.
  3. Scan the QR code or enter the pairing code.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about connecting Android and iPhone in ShareIt

Is it possible to transfer applications from Android to iPhone via ShareIt?

No, ShareIt does not support transferring installed applications (.apk or .ipa) from Android to iPhone. This is due to architectural differences iOS and Android, as well as policy Appleprohibiting the installation of applications from third-party sources. However, you can transfer backup files (for example, game saves) or APK files for installation on other Androiddevices.

Why does ShareIt ask for location access on iPhone?

ShareIt asks for access to Locations not to track your location, but to search for nearby devices via Wi-Fi Direct and Bluetooth. Without this permission, the app will not be able to detect other smartphones within range. You can disable access to the location after the transfer is complete, but then you will have to allow it again the next time you use it.

How to transfer files larger than 1 GB?

ShareIt theoretically supports transferring large files, but in practice problems may arise. To successfully transfer a file size 1 GB+:

  1. Use Hotspot instead of Wi-Fi Direct —it is more stable for large volumes.
  2. Connect both devices to charging - transfer can take 10-20 minutes and greatly drains the battery.
  3. Split the file into parts (for example, using an archiver ZArchiver on Android).
  4. If the transfer is interrupted, try alternative applications like Send Anywhere.
ShareIt does not work after updating iOS. What should I do?

After major updates iOS (for example, from iOS 16 to iOS 17) ShareIt may stop seeing Androiddevices. This is due to changes in the security policy. AppleSolutions:

  • Update ShareIt to the latest version in App Store.
  • Reinstall the application (uninstall and reinstall). data-i="373">Use
  • Use Hotspot instead Wi-Fi Direct.
  • If all else fails, try alternatives (Send Anywhere, Snapdrop).

Sometimes the problem is solved after resetting the network settings on iPhone (Settings → General → Transfer or reset → Reset network settings).

Can ShareIt be used without the Internet?

Yes, ShareIt works completely offline - a local network is used to transfer files between devices (Wi-Fi Direct or Hotspot).The Internet is needed only for:

  • Downloading application updates.
  • Viewing advertisements (in the free version).
  • Using some additional features (for example, ShareIt cloud storage).

If you are in a place without the Internet (for example, on the subway or on an airplane), ShareIt will work as usual.