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In this article, I will analyze the reasons why your iPhone does not see the MacBook / iMac via AirDrop and how to establish a connection between devices.
This article is suitable for all iPhone Xs/Xr/X/8/7/6/5 and Plus models on iOS 12. Older versions may have different or missing menu items and hardware support mentioned in the article.
AirDrop restrictions
AirDrop is a secure and convenient file sharing system. If the option is activated, then a secure network is created, the data within which will move in encrypted form. When using a Wi-Fi network, the exchange is really fast. Despite this, AirDrop has a number of limitations.
AirDrop can only be used to share information between Apple devices. The function is not available for every i-gadget. The technology is only supported by iPhone 5 and newer phones. The screenshot below shows a list of Apple computers that work with this option.
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Not all content can be transferred using AirDrop. While photos can be sent, music files cannot. It has to do with copyright protection. If users need to exchange contacts, they must go to iCoud.
Using Airdrop on iPhone
To transfer a file via AirDrop using an iPhone, do the following:
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Using Airdrop on Mac and other Apple computers
- Select "Transition", then AirDrop in the section line in the Finder. You can also select AirDrop from the sidebar of this window.
- The AirDrop window will display nearby system users. We drag the necessary files in the window onto the image of the recipient, then click on the "Send" button.
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You can also use the "Sharing" function:
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Getting Files
In the situation where the recipient is logged into your iCloud account, the sent file will be automatically accepted and saved. Otherwise, the recipient will need to confirm receipt of the file before saving it to the device.
- On a Mac computer, files are saved in the Downloads folder.
- On iOS devices, the file is displayed in the corresponding program. For example, a website appears in the Safari browser, photos in the Photos app.
AirDrop issues and fixes
When released, AirDrop worked with numerous glitches. Now the software is more debugged, but it cannot be said that the technology functions perfectly. Very often, during an attempt to transfer a file, the iPhone does not see the “recipient”, and AirDrop may disappear from the control center altogether.
To solve the problem, you need to make sure that the errors are not related to the restrictions of the option. For example, on the iPhone 4S, it makes no sense to look for AirDrop, since the gadget simply does not support this technology.
Then you need to make sure that the devices between which the exchange is planned:
- Connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- They are located no more than 9 meters from each other.
- Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are active. When AirDrop is turned on, they should automatically be activated, but it's worth checking.
You also need to check that i-devices are not blocked, Apple computers are not in sleep mode, and the Bluetooth / System Preferences window is open.
Recipient not visible
If the connection fails, then turn off and on AirDrop on all devices and reconnect. If this method did not help, then disable the option again, reboot the devices and try to establish a connection.
Mode "For all"
Very often, AirDrop does not see the device when the "Contacts Only" mode is used and the recipient is in the sender's contacts list. It is necessary to temporarily try to activate the "For all" mode and check if the situation has returned to normal.
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Change settings
Situations are common when, due to device settings, data transfer does not occur.
For iPhone, check the following:
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For Apple computers:
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Pairing
During AirDrop activation, the creation of a Bluetooth pairing should be done automatically, but sometimes this does not happen. In this situation, we act according to the algorithm:
For Apple computers:
Like many built-in features for iOS and MacOS, AirDrop is both fast and simple. Similar to sending messages or E-mail, you can use the technology to send photos, videos, music, and even PDF files. This comes in handy when you're near the person you want to send the file to, as AirDrop only works for users who are close to each other.
What's more, in terms of security, AirDrop surpasses both E-mail and SMS technologies by using Bluetooth to create a Wi-Fi connection with your iOS and MacOS devices, creating an encrypted firewall.
Another benefit of the feature is that it supports some standard iOS apps. The option is available directly from Photos, Notes, Safari, Contacts and Maps. Due to this, there is no need to open a new window or copy and paste the necessary information. However, there is one condition - you must know how to use AirDrop.
If not, then this article contains all the information you need to enable AirDrop and transfer files on iPhone, iPad and Mac.
AirDrop - what is it and how to use it on iPhone in iOS?
Starting with Mac OS X Lion and iOS 7, AirDrop uses a high speed, low latency protocol. This works for two nearby devices with Bluetooth 4.0 and Wi-Fi turned on.
To use the above feature, your Mac doesn't have to be connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your iPhone, iPod touch, iPad, or other Mac, as is the case with . What's more, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are automatically enabled when AirDrop is active.
Also, AirDrop doesn't require iCloud to work, unless you need to send something to someone in your contacts. Then both of you must be signed into iCloud. The amount of transferred content is not limited.
For security, AirDrop encrypts files during transfer.
AirDrop works between iPhone (5, 6, 7, 8, X), iPod touch and iPad version iOS 7 or later and Mac on OS X Mavericks and later, and between Mac on OS X Yosemite and iPhone, iPod touch and iPad on iOS 11 or later.
How to enable AirDrop on iPhone and iPad in two ways in iOS?
How to use AirDrop on iPhone to transfer files to other iOS devices nearby? Follow the steps below to enable the feature on iPhone/iPad and Mac. If you need to sync iPhone/iPad and Mac files and send them to other devices nearby.
Enable AirDrop from Control Center on iPhone and iPad
You can share AirDrop with both your contacts and anyone nearby. The first option requires more conditions to be met, since both of you must be authorized in iCloud and be in each other's contact list.
With the settings “For Everyone” it is much easier, but then any strangers will be able to send you anything.
Of course, choose "Contacts Only" and make sure you're signed in to iCloud.
If you can’t select the AirDrop icon, then you probably turned it off in the “Restrictions” menu in Settings. So change your settings to use AirDrop on iOS 11 and later.
Enable AirDrop from Settings on iPhone and iPad
Turn on Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on your iPhone. AirDrop has been available since iOS 7.0 and is activated via Control Center.
Then go to Settings > General > AirDrop to choose who can see your iPhone in the feature and who can share content with you. Of course, you can set other AirDrop settings in the Control Center: swipe from the top right corner, hold the network settings card, and select AirDrop. Three options will appear: “Reception Disabled”, “Contacts Only” or “For Everyone”.
- Receive Disabled: You will not receive requests from AirDrop.
- For Contacts Only: Only people in your contact list can see your device.
- For Everyone: Any iOS device or Mac using AirDrop can see your device.
- To send files, select the Contacts Only or Everyone option and make sure AirDrop is not blocked by your device: Settings > General > Restrictions.
Now you know how to enable this option on your iPhone.
How to transfer photos, videos, music via AirDrop on iPhone to iOS?
Once you've enabled AirDrop on iOS, you can share content with other iOS devices and Macs. With AirDrop, you can share photos, videos, notes, contacts, music, and more.
If you're about to AirDrop content to someone with multiple devices, their avatar will appear multiple times in the list. You'll see device names below the avatars so you can select the one you want.
How to transfer a file via AirDrop on Mac? (Photo, music, video)
To send a file via AirDrop from a Mac, first click on the “Finder” icon. In the Finder window, you should notice "AirDrop" in the list of options on the left. Click on "AirDrop" and your computer will start searching for devices with the feature enabled.
When the available devices are shown, simply drag and drop the desired file onto the name of the device to which you want to send this file. For convenience, move the file to your desktop in advance.
Files sent to a device authorized in your iCloud account (for example, if you send photos from your iPhone to your Macbook) will be automatically received. However, when sending files to someone else, the recipient will see a pop-up asking for permission to transfer the file.
How to change name in AirDrop on iPhone and iPad?
You may be wondering how to change the name in AirDrop. It's tied to your Apple ID, not your device name.
Go to Settings > iCloud > Mail (under Extras) and change the name in the corresponding field, but be aware that the name in iCloud mail may also change.
Do you use AirDrop to send photos and videos using iPhone or iPad on Mac? Do you have any tips or questions about enabling AirDrop and transferring files between iOS and Mac OS? Write to us in the comments.
"I can't transfer photos via AirDrop on my iPhone 6s."
"What to do if iPhone 8 AirDrop doesn't work between iPhone, iPad, Mac."
You may know what AirDrop is and what AirDrop can do. But when you plan to transfer some files from iPhone to MacBook or from iPhone to iPhone via Airdrop, you may encounter the "AirDrop not working" issue. Do not worry. Read the article and try the methods below to fix iPhone AirDrop not working in iOS 12 errors.
What You Should Know Before Using Airdrop on iPhone or iPad
If you want to use AirDrop, your devices must be running iOS 7, Mac OS X lion (10.7) or newer systems, and Wi-Fi and Bluetooth must be enabled on iOS devices. In addition, you must ensure that the distance between the two devices is not too great (less than 30 feet, about 9 meters).
6 Ways to Fix AirDrop Not Working on iPhone 6/7/8/X/XR/XS
There are a few basic ways you can try when your AirDrop won't work on iPhone as well as iPad/iPod touch.
Method 1: Turn on Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
Turn off and then turn on Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Check your network, turn off Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, and then turn them on.
Method 2: Reboot devices
Hold down the Sleep/Wake and Home buttons until the Apple logo appears on the screen. For iPhone 7 users, press the Sleep/Wake button and the Volume Down button to do so. For iPhone8/X users: press and quickly release the "Volume Up" button, then press and quickly release the "Volume Down" button, finally press and hold the Side (Sleep/Wake) button until the Apple logo appears.
Method 3: Sign out and then sign in to iCloud
Open Settings > Your Account, sign out of your iCloud account and sign in to your iCloud.
Method 4: Update iOS to the latest version
This problem may be due to some bugs in the iOS operating system that you cannot fix. So just wait until the new iOS fixes it. You'd better back up your device to avoid data loss during the update. Then go to Settings > General > Software Update to download and install the latest OS.
Method 5: Network reset
Open Settings > General > Reset > Reset network settings.
Method 6. Change settings
What to do if airdrop does not see the device? Change the settings (activate "for everyone", instead of "only for contacts", and vice versa).
Method 7. Use the ReiBoot tool
If the methods above didn't work, try using some alternative tools like this one to solve AirDrop doesn't see iPhone, iPad, Mac.
Step 1: Click the "Resolve All iOS Lockups" button on the main window to enter System Restore.
Step 2: Click "Fix Now" and start the process.
Step 3: Download the firmware package
Tenorshare ReiBoot offers a firmware package for an iOS device. Your device will be updated to the latest version after the restore. Click the "Download" button and start downloading the software package online. If you have problems downloading, click "Copy" and download through the browser.
The package's internal memory is 2.5 GB, and takes a few times.
Step 4: Start restoring the iOS system
When after downloading, click "Start Repair" and start to restore the system. This process takes less than 10 minutes, you cannot turn off the device in this process.
Step 5: iPhone/iPad/iPod system restored successfully
When the restore completes, your iOS device turns on. The data and settings are saved and the problem is fixed.
Tenorshare ReiBoot can not only enter and exit recovery mode, but also can fix problems like screen freezes, iOS freezes, iTunes errors and other problems.
I hope these methods will help you solve the problem.
In addition, Reiboot helps to solve errors such as the blue screen of death, or the iPhone does not respond at all to your button presses.
Service AirDrop appeared not so long ago, and became relevant only after updating not only iOS, but also OS X to versions 8.1 and Yosemite, respectively. As a result, some users got great interaction and interchangeability between Mac, iPad and iPhone, But not all.
Those who have not updated for a number of reasons, bugs or flaws in the new iOS, were left without these features. However, even the owners of all the most actual faced gaps in the well-functioning work of the new service. We have already told you how to set up AirDrop, and now we will explain what to do if AirDrop does not see your device.
1) Make sure the devices are connected to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, Handoff is enabled on all devices, the System Preferences -> Bluetooth page on the Mac is open and minimized, and that the same account is signed in and pairing is enabled on all devices keys;
2) Check the list of supported devices:
MacBook Pro (Late 2008 or newer)
MacBook Air (Late 2010 or newer)
MacBook (Late 2008 or newer)
iMac (Early 2009 or newer)
Mac Mini (Mid 2010 or newer)
Mac Pro (Early 2009 with AirPort Extreme card, or Mid 2010)
3) If all the settings are done correctly, and the Mac still does not want to work in conjunction with the iPhone, then check the bluetooth module and its version. HCI must be 0x6, otherwise the module will have to be changed;
4) Now fix the permissions in Mac Disk Utility;
5) Create your contact card, through the menu "Programs -> Contacts -> Create" and mark it "This is my card", and then reboot the devices;
6) Use a special tweak that allows you to use AirDrop on iOS7, it's called AirDrop Enabler iOS7. After jailbreaking, downloading and installing it, you will get the coveted feature, which is turned on in the usual way, but works in conjunction with Mac and iPad 3 generations only;
AirDrop is a modern, fast and completely intuitive way to transfer files over Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, developed by Apple and put into operation with iOS 7. After you enable AirDrop on iOS 11 (and others), you can share everything from recordings to in the phone book and photos to videos and pages from the Safari browser. And, if there are no problems with choosing the content you need to transfer, then interacting with AirDrop is unlikely to raise at least a few questions - everything is too easy and convenient.
Ways to enable AirDrop
Did you send a photo or video? So, the right place for such content is “Gallery”. If there was a link exchange, either the Safari browser will open and a suggestive bookmark will appear, or the contents of the Apple digital store will be displayed. In cases where data is being transferred between different devices of the same owner (for example, between a smartphone and a Mac with the same Apple ID), the “Accept” or “Reject” prompt will not appear in principle and the data transfer will start automatically.
The technology, in general, is really intuitive, but only for those who are happy to share information. The rest will have to turn on AirDrop on iOS (all actions will take no more than a few seconds), and make sure that the sender is really close. If yes, then the procedure will take only a few seconds, you just need to figure out the settings:
Enabling AirDrop via Control Center
Through settings
The second option is in case there are problems with the first. The procedure is as follows - call "Settings", find the "General" item, select "AirDrop", check the box next to the most suitable option (again, by default, the technology is turned off to receive files, and therefore the recipient must first activate everything).
How to transfer files via AirDrop
To call the process of transferring files via AirDrop something complicated and inconvenient - the language does not turn too intuitively and predictably. Moreover, the order of data transfer works the same everywhere - both when interacting with entertainment content, and when surfing the Internet. You need to act like this:
Possible problems and solutions
AirDrop interactions are extremely rare, and if the problem does occur, there are three things to look out for (there can be no other!):
- Both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi must be enabled;
- The recipient must be nearby, albeit not a few steps away, but certainly no further than 20-25 meters;
- If the transfer item “Contacts only” is selected in the settings, but the recipient still does not appear in the transfer list, then you should select the “For everyone” option and try again.
If the above methods did not work, then the last two options remain - reboot both devices or try switching the systems to Airplane mode and vice versa.