Why AirDrop Doesn’t Work on iPhone or MacBook and How to Fix It?

Many people have likely encountered a situation where AirDrop stopped sending or receiving files. Let’s dive into the problem and share some tips to ensure smooth file transfers on your iPhone or MacBook.

What is AirDrop?

AirDrop is a simple way to transfer files between Apple devices. It is a wireless technology that uses a combination of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. To exchange data, the devices need to be nearby and unlocked.

How to Send a File via AirDrop?

·       Enable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on both devices.

·       Open the photo or document you want to send, then tap “Share.”

·       Select AirDrop.

·       Choose the AirDrop user you want to send the files to.

Why Doesn’t the iPhone See AirDrop?

AirDrop uses Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to transfer files on iPhones. First, make sure both features are turned on, both on the device sending the files and the one receiving them. If they are on but AirDrop still doesn’t work, try reconnecting Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

Still not finding the iPhone? The receiving device must be set to “Everyone” mode for receiving files. To enable this:

·       Go to “Settings,” then “General.”

·       Tap “AirDrop,” then select “Everyone for 10 Minutes.”

If you choose “Contacts Only,” you can share files only with your iCloud contacts.

Check Screen Time Restrictions

Ensure that AirDrop is not restricted in Screen Time. Follow this path: “Settings” > “Screen Time” > “Content & Privacy Restrictions” > “Allowed Apps.”

The toggle for AirDrop should be turned on.

Turn Off Personal Hotspot

To transfer files, you need to disable the personal hotspot on both devices. This is one of the less obvious reasons why AirDrop may not work on iPhones, as wireless modules might be overloaded and unable to respond to file transfers.

Disable VPN

For AirDrop to work, the devices need to be on the same network. An active VPN (on even one of the devices) can prevent the connection from being established. To disable VPN:

·       Open “Settings.”

·       Select VPN and deactivate the green circle next to it.

AirDrop on Mac

With AirDrop on Mac, you can send files to nearby Apple devices. To share content via AirDrop on Mac:

·       Open the desired file and click “Share.”

·       Select AirDrop.

·       Choose the recipient.

If AirDrop on Mac Doesn’t Display Another Device

Ensure that both devices (sender and receiver) have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled. The gadgets should also be within 9 meters of each other. Follow these steps:

·       Open the AirDrop menu in Finder.

·       In the “Allow me to be discovered by” section, select “Everyone.”

Another crucial point: the software on both the sending and receiving devices must be updated to the latest version.

Check Firewall Settings

Check incoming connections, as they might be blocked in the firewall settings. For macOS Ventura, follow these steps:

·       Open the Apple menu, then “System Settings.”

·       Tap “Network” and open “Firewall.”

·       Click “Options” and ensure “Block all incoming connections” is turned off.

For earlier macOS versions:

·       Go to the Apple menu, then “System Preferences.”

·       Open “Security & Privacy,” and go to “Firewall.”

·       Click the lock, enter the administrator password if prompted.

·       Select “Firewall Options” and make sure the “Block all incoming connections” box is unchecked.

If all these steps are completed and AirDrop still doesn’t work, restart your device and follow the steps again. If the problem persists, check if there are issues with the Wi-Fi or Bluetooth modules. Turn off cellular data and make sure Wi-Fi is receiving a signal. Try connecting another gadget, like headphones or a speaker, to the device via Bluetooth. If the issue lies with the Wi-Fi or Bluetooth modules, you may need to visit a service center.

Having trouble figuring out why AirDrop isn’t working or don’t want to spend time troubleshooting? iSpace is here to help! Our service center specialists will identify the cause, check the functionality of your modules, and fix any issues with AirDrop.