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AirDrop makes it easy to transfer data from one Apple rig to another.
But it’s far from perfect, so you may occasionally face issues initiating or finishing an AirDrop transfer.
Below, we list some troubleshooting steps to help you fix these problems.
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Change Your AirDrop Visibility tweaks
AirDrop gives you three visibility options:Everyone,Contacts Only, orReceiving Off.
If your unit isn’t showing up on AirDrop, it might be onReceiving Off.
Therefore, switch toEveryoneorContacts Only, depending on the recipient.
OpenControl Centeron your iPhone or iPad, then tap and hold in the top-left section to reveal anAirDropbutton.
Choose your preferred option.
On a Mac, openControl Centerand clickAirDropfrom the top-left section.
In the window that pops up, chooseEveryoneorContacts Only.
Unlock your iPhone or iPad and leave it on the Home Screen to prepare it.
On an iPhone or iPad, go toSettings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions > Allowed Apps.
On a Mac, go toSystem prefs > Screen Time > Content & Privacy > App Restrictions.
Make sureAirDropis turned on for each gear.
You may need to type your Screen Time passcode to make these changes.
You canuse NameDrop to share contact informationby placing the top edge of two iPhones close to each other.
If NameDrop isn’t working, see if your machine has the right prefs.
On your iPhone, go toSettings > General > AirDropand toggle onBringing Devices Togetherif you haven’t.
Note that NameDrop only lets you share new contact information.
you’re able to’t update an existing contact with NameDrop.
AirDrop files automatically open in a relevant app.
This could explain why your AirDrop transfer failed.
On an iPhone, open theFilesapp and select theBrowsetab from the bottom.
Then, head intoiCloud DriveorOn My iPhoneand tap into theDownloadsfolder.
You might need to do this in the VPN app or your machine controls.
On an iPhone or iPad, go toSettings > VPNto do this.
On a Mac, go toSystem controls > web connection > VPN.
You’ll need to loosen these restrictions from System prefs if AirDrop still isn’t working.
Go toSystem parameters > data pipe > Firewall.
Toggle offFirewalland key in your Mac’s admin password if prompted.
Choose the data to keep on your equipment, then confirm you want to sign out.
After signing out, return toSettingsorSystem Settingsto sign in to your Apple ID again.
If AirDrop still isn’t working, implement the latest updates for your devices to hopefully fix it.
On an iPhone or iPad, go toSettings > General > Software Update.
On a Mac, go toSystem prefs > General > Software Updateto check for a newer version.
And it only takes a moment to try it.
type your passcode, then confirm you want toReset internet tweaks.
We hope the above troubleshooting steps allowed you to use AirDrop and NameDrop again.
If the problem persists, it’s best to contact Apple Support for further assistance.
