- If your AirDrop isn't working on iPhone, iPad, or Mac, first check that Bluetooth is turned on.
- You also need to enable AirDrop by setting it to receive from everyone or your contacts.
- AirDrop has no size limit, and you can use it to send large files between Apple devices.
One of the most convenient features for Apple users is AirDrop, which lets you send media, links, and documents via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi to devices within a certain range.
Most newer Apple devices already have this feature, however, it can be finicky for no particular reason.
So when AirDrop is not working properly, try these troubleshooting techniques.
How to fix AirDrop not working on iPhone or iPad
To fix the AirDrop not working issue on iPhone and iPad, you first need to make sure Bluetooth is enabled on both devices. Then, you need to set AirDrop to receive either everyone or from people in your contacts lists.
1. Open the Settings app on your device.
2. Tap Bluetooth.
3. If the toggle for Bluetooth has a gray background, then Bluetooth is off. Tap the toggle to turn it on.
4. Tap Settings in the top left corner of the screen.
5. Tap General
6. Tap AirDrop.
7. You can then choose if you want AirDrop to be available to everyone within range or just those in your contact list. For the sake of haste, choose Everyone to see if that quickly solves the problem.
8. Make sure the device you want to AirDrop to is also enabled for Everyone. If your two devices are far apart, bring them closer in case they're slightly out of range.
How to fix AirDrop not working on a Mac computer
You may need to change your AirDrop settings to allow your device to be discoverable.
1. Open Finder on your Mac.
2. Select AirDrop at the top of the left side menu.
3. Select the drop-down menu next to Allow me to be discovered by and change it to Everyone.
If that doesn't work, use the menu bar at the top of your screen and select the Wi-Fi icon. Make sure it's switched on and that you're connected to a network. Next, do the same for Bluetooth. You can also try turning both off and on again in an attempt to reconnect.
1. You should also check that your firewall settings allow for new connections.
2. Open the System Preferences app on your Mac
3. Select Security & Privacy.
4. Click the lock icon in the bottom-left corner of the screen, and enter your password or use your Touch ID.
4. Select the Firewall tab.
5. Click either Turn Off Firewall or click Firewall Options.
6. In the pop-up, uncheck the box next to Block all incoming connections, then click OK.
What to do if AirDrop still isn't working
If AirDrop is still not working after you've tried the above steps, consider restarting your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
You may also want to update your iPhone, iPad, or Mac software to the latest available version if you haven't already.
FAQs
How does AirDrop work?
AirDrop uses Bluetooth to discover devices within a certain range, and then Wi-Fi to send over the content. Bluetooth connections can reach up to half a mile, but your devices likely need to be within 30 feet of each other to work properly. When Wi-Fi is unavailable, AirDrop will use your cellular service.
Why can my iPhone send but not receive AirDrop?
By default, AirDrop is set to receive from your contacts. If you can send to someone but not receive from them, it may mean that they're not in your contacts list. You can add them as a contact or set AirDrop to receive from everyone.
Does AirDrop have a size limit?
AirDrop has no size limit to worry about. This makes it a very good option when you need to send a large file – although, that means those big files will take longer to send.
Via PakApNews