Microsoft Edge Drop feature allows you to share files between Windows, Android, Mac and iOS: What is it, how it works and more

Transferring files and multimedia content across devices can be challenging especially if you are trying to transfer files across platforms. While most platforms come with their own file transfer feature like Apple has AirDrop, Microsoft has Nearby Share and Android devices come with the Nearby Sharing feature. All of them are platform-dependent which means they are mostly good only when dealing with the ecosystem.
It looks like Microsoft has found a solution to this problem with its Edge Drop feature. It lives within the Edge browser and allows users to easily transfer files, photos and other multimedia content across devices and platforms. But, there are some limitations and requirements that you need to know about it. Read on, we will tell you everything about Edge Drop, how to get started, how it works and more.
What is Edge Drop
Edge Drop, as mentioned, allows users to transfer files and other multimedia content across the platform. But, it goes beyond that, it also gives the option to send personal notes, and screenshots and access them anywhere a user wants. The feature is a part of Microsoft’s recently added Edge sidebar which also includes other apps and services like search, WhatsApp, Apple Music, YouTube, etc. Basically, Edge Drop is similar to a messaging app with a personal chat-like interface where users can drop anything they want. For instance, they can drop a message to pick up groceries, buy ink cartridges, wish birthdays and also share multimedia files.
How Edge Drop feature works
Edge Drop feature takes a simple approach to the ecosystem, but instead of limiting it to devices, it relies on the Microsoft Account and OneDrive. So, users need a Microsoft account and OneDrive’s storage space for the Edge Drop feature to work. This means, all the files and data you transfer using the Edge Drop feature will be counted against the available OneDrive storage, which is just 5GB for free. Also, they need to download Edge browser and link with the same Microsoft Account to use this feature. This also means, that irrespective of the device or ecosystem you are invested in, the Edge Drop feature will work.
How to get started
For starters, the Edge Drop feature is in the testing phase which means, it isn’t available for the stable version. Although it is expected to arrive soon. Meanwhile, you can download the Edge Canary version to give this feature a try
Once Edge Canary is downloaded, log in using the Microsoft account. Do note that, there’s no need to download the Canary version to receive the files.
Then, enable the sidebar from Settings → Show Sidebar. After this, tap on the ‘+’ icon on the sidebar and choose Drop feature.
How to access files shared with the Edge Drop feature
Files shared with the Edge Drop feature can be found under the Drop interface within Edge. Files and other contents can also be downloaded and stored locally on the device itself.