How to Transfer files with AirDrop on iPhone or Mac

August 24, 2023

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There are numerous ways you can transfer files, contact, videos, and photos on iPhone or Mac. However, transferring files with AirDrop is the easiest and quickest way. AirDrop iPhone allows you to transfer files wirelessly between all of your Apple devices. In fact, you can even transfer files between your devices and the devices of other Apple users.

AirDrop Mac is one of the best and most useful features that Apple devices include. No matter how huge the file is, AirDrop share makes transferring files a breeze. You can use this wonderful tool to share any kind and number of files, including films, music, photos, images, doc, and so on. AirDrop from iPhone to Mac helps you save a lot of time that you can utilize in doing your core activities.

A simple turning on AirDrop lets you do a lot of file sharing and transferring in just a few seconds. If you want to know how you can transfer files with AirDrop, then keep scrolling to read the full article.

In this article, we will guide you through an in-depth explanation of utilizing AirDrop, along with some FAQs pertaining to AirDrop.

So, let’s get started…

Table of Contents

Check Compatibility
Check your Device is NOT ON Airplane Mode
Check AirDrop is Turned on
Check your Device’s Bluetooth Connectivity
Check your Device’s Wi-Fi Connectivity
Turn Off Your Own Hotspot
Ensure That Your iOS Device Is Unlocked
Check That the Devices are At Appropriate Distance
Force Restart your Device
Contact Apple Support Team

What Exactly is AirDrop?

AirDrop is a built-in feature in iOS and macOS. It allows Apple iPhone and Mac users to easily share data between devices connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Today, it is one of the features that Apple devices incorporate. It empowers users to effortlessly share their files, photos, videos, websites, and locations with nearby devices. You can share files with AirDrop within a range of approximately 30 feet.

As the name says, AirDrop doesn’t need you to connect devices with wires. It allows you to share files. You can share your personal photos, videos, files, websites, locations, etc., to nearby devices and Mac computers.

How Does AirDrop Work?

AirDrop is one of the best tools that Apple devices feature. Most Apple users send files using AirDrop. It is because this tool makes sharing files a cakewalk and saves users a great deal of time. To send files effortlessly with AirDrop, you need to have iOS 7, iPadOS 13, OS X 10.10, or a later version. Aside from that, both devices must have Bluetooth and Wi-Fi turned on.

First of all, it searches for devices that you can send to via Bluetooth. Then, the device that you send from establishes a secure peer-to-peer Wi-Fi network connection with the device that is receiving the file(s) before transferring them.

This transmission does not use the Internet, nor does it use a local Wi-Fi network. In order to use AirDrop, only your Wi-Fi must be turned on. You can use this tool anywhere.

Is There Any Size Restriction to Transfer Files with AirDrop?

No, there is no size restriction on files. You can send numerous files all together. The best thing about transferring files with AirDrop is that transfers take place at the maximum speed. Also, AirDrop from iPhone to Mac doesn’t require Wi-Fi; you do not have to worry about having to split the bandwidth with anyone else. That’s the reason more and more Apple users utilize AirDrop to transfer files. Using AirDrop, you are able to transfer an infinite number of files of any size. It takes just a few seconds to AirDrop share.

However, make sure that two devices are within the range. The range to transfer files with AirDrop is 30 ft. The transmission rate will drop if the distance between the devices is more than 30 feet. AirDrop is only compatible with devices that are within 30 feet or 10 meters of one another. This is because AirDrop first creates the peer-to-peer Wi-Fi network.

Requirements for Using AirDrop

Files can be transferred from one device to another using AirDrop, which is the quickest and easiest method. AirDrop requires that both devices have Bluetooth and Wi-Fi turned on. In addition, neither device should be serving as a personal hotspot while the other is being used.

Let’s now see how you can transfer files with AirDrop. Here we go…

AirDrop from iPhone to Mac

As we said in the beginning, transferring files using AirDrop is a breeze. You can AirDrop from iPhone to Mac and Mac to iPhone. Here we will see how you can transfer files with AirDrop from iPhone to Mac.

AirDrop is the most efficient method of transferring media items such as photos, movies, and music between your iPhone and Mac if you do not have iCloud set up to sync your files automatically. Here is how you can wirelessly send files using AirDrop

Also see: 14 Best Apps to Transfer Data from old Android to New Android

1. Sort Your Data First

Before transferring images from your iPhone to your Mac via AirDrop, sort your images or videos or the file you want to send. For instance, you want to send your images from your sister’s wedding to your aunt at the wedding. You can use AirDrop iPhone. Of course, you cannot send every picture of yours that you clicked at the wedding. Before sending your images, you will need to sort them out. If you try to send all your pictures, it will take another birth to send 😊. Hence, it is imperative that you transfer only the ones that are clear. This way, you will avoid sending duplicate and fuzzy images.

You can use any online tool to get rid of all the duplicates, blurred, fuzzy, and not-so-good pictures.

2. Activate AirDrop on Your iPhone

Once you’re done with sorting of your images, it’s time to enable AirDrop on your iPhone. Here are the steps that you can follow to enable AirDrop

Proceed to the Settings menu.
Scroll down and tap the General option.
Now, open the AirDrop app on your device.
Choose Contacts Only from the AirDrop menu to restrict file transfers to only those individuals who are already in your contact list. If you want to send your pictures to all, then choose Everyone for 10 Minutes to allow file transfers to anyone in the vicinity who is using an Apple device.

3. Begin Transfer

Once AirDrop is enabled on your device, you’re ready to transfer files. Before you start transferring files, check that both your Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connections are active and that you are no more than 30 feet away from your Mac. Here are the steps that you need to follow in order to transfer files with AirDrop

Click on the AirDrop icon on either device.
Choose the item (s) in your device that you wish to send and press the Select button. This will allow you to select each of the photos and videos that you wish to upload via AirDrop.
Now, Tap the share icon located in the bottom left of the screen.
Now, choose the Apple device from the list that appears.
Now, you’ll get the “Send” option to begin transferring files. Click on Send. You’re done!

AirDrop Not Working: Steps to Fix AirDrop Issues

If you’re experiencing trouble using AirDrop, here are the steps that you need to follow

1. Check Compatibility

First things first, when the issue with AirDrop occurs, it is essential to see that your device is AirDrop compatible. AirDrop is compatible with iOS 7 and later versions. Ensure your iOS device is AirDrop compatible with the iPhone and iPad that you and the recipient are using.

To find out whether or not your device is compatible with AirDrop, go to the Finder icon in the Dock. Now, choose Go from the menu bar and check whether or not your device is AirDrop compatible.

Also See: 5 Solid Reasons Why MacBooks Are Better Than Other Laptops in 2023

2. Check your Device is NOT ON Airplane Mode

None of the features on your phone will function if it is in airplane mode. Hence, it is crucial to check if your phone’s Airplane mode is turned off. To turn off Airplane mode, simply go to Settings, and see if the airplane mode is turned on. If it is so, turn it off by tapping the Airplane icon once. That’s all!

3. Check AirDrop is Turned on

If your device is AirDrop compatible but still is not working, then try verifying if AirDrop is enabled. Know that when your AirDrop is turned off, you may not be able to send or receive files. If the AirDrop in your device is turned off, turn it on by following these steps

Go to Settings
Now, go to General.
Now, turn on AirDrop.

If AirDrop isn’t enabled, then use Command-Shift-R on your keyboard to launch it.

To the right of the menu bar on a Mac, you’ll find the Control Centre, where you may adjust your AirDrop preferences. Select Contact Only or Everyone as your preference.

4. Check your Device’s Bluetooth Connectivity

As you know, AirDrop uses Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for sharing files. It is essential that both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are enabled on your device. If something is wrong with your Bluetooth connection, try turning it off and then turning it back on. Here are the steps to follow

Go to your iOS device’s Settings menu.
Find Bluetooth icon
Tap on the Bluetooth icon to disable it and wait for a few seconds.
Tap the icon again and enable it.

5. Check your Device’s Wi-Fi Connectivity

If Bluetooth connectivity is fine, but the internet is a problem, then turn your internet off and then turn it on again. Here are the steps to follow

Go to your iOS device’s Settings menu.
Find Wi-Fi icon
Click on the Wi-Fi icon to turn it off.
Wait a few seconds and then tap on it again to turn the network on.

6. Turn Off Your Own Hotspot

AirDrop doesn’t function if either of the devices has their Hotspot on. Hence, it is crucial to check and turn off the Hotspot in the device. Here is how you can turn off the Hotspot

Go to Settings.
Tap Hotspot & Tethering.
Turn off the Wi-Fi hotspot.

7. Ensure That Your iOS Device Is Unlocked

Sometimes a simple unlocking of the device can help you overcome the issue instantly. Yes, if your device is locked, AirDrop won’t work. Hence, it is crucial that you keep your iPhone unlocked while you AirDrop from iPhone to Mac.

8. Check That the Devices are At Appropriate Distance

If none of the steps above have worked so far, then check the distance between the devices. The range for AirDrop file transfer is 30 ft. If your devices are too far from each other, the transfer will not take place. And even if it takes place, the speed of the transfer will be too low. Know that you won’t be able to use your device until the transfer is over. Hence, it is crucial that you move your device closer to the recipient’s device.

9. Force Restart your Device

If you’re still having problems with AirDrop on an iOS device, then try restarting your device. Follow the steps below

To access the power-off slider, hold down both the volume and the side buttons simultaneously.
Drag the slider to switch off your device, and wait for 30 seconds.
The moment your phone’s screen goes black, press and hold the side button (located on the right side of your iPhone). Keep it pressed until the Apple logo appears.

10. Contact Apple Support Team

If none of the above tips have worked for you, then it’s time to contact the Apple support team. Apple support team would be able to help you with appropriate solutions to fix AirDrop on your device. You can even visit an Apple store near your location to get rid of the issue.

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Wrapping it up…

So, these are the steps that you need to follow in order to transfer files with AirDrop. Hopefully, this article has been informative for you and has helped you make an easy transfer using AirDrop. Sending files using AirDrop becomes a breeze. You can send any type of file to your loved ones, friends, or anyone for that matter. All you have to do is ensure the recipient is in the range. Once you become accustomed to transferring files with AirDrop, you will be amazed to see how easy sharing files becomes for you.

Let’s now take a look at the AirDrop share FAQs. Here we go…

FAQs

1. Is it safe to use AirDrop?

Yes, it is absolutely safe to transfer files with AirDrop. AirDrop is typically regarded as a secure tool. However, you may need to take necessary precautions like configuring it to “Contacts Only” or “Receiving Off.” Apple is a renowned brand, and it takes significant measures to guarantee the privacy and security of its customers.

2. What are the requirements for using AirDrop?

Apple AirDrop feature is compatible with the latest Apple devices. You need to have iOS 7, iPadOS 13, OS X 10.10, or a later version. In addition, make sure that Bluetooth is enabled on both devices and that they’re linked to a stable internet connection. Aside from that, neither device should be serving as a personal hotspot while the other is being used.

3. I am trying to use Mac, but I am unable to transfer files with Airdrop. What shall I do?

Well, there are several reasons you may be experiencing a problem with your Mac’s version of AirDrop. Below are some quick fixes that you can try to overcome the issue:

a. Check if the Hotspot of your iPhone is turned on. Know that AirDrop will not work if either of the devices (the sender’s and the receiver’s) has Hotspot turned on. AirDrop will not work if your Mac is connected to your phone’s Personal Hotspot at the same time. So, it’s better to turn off your Hotspot first. Go to Settings, then click on Personal Hotspot and turn it off.

b. Check if the airplane mode in your device has been activated. When you switch your device to airplane mode, both the network and the Wi-Fi in your phone get turned off. If it is so, turn off the airplane mode to let your device function properly.

c. Check if the Bluetooth is paired correctly. Sometimes the issue occurs due to a problem with the connection to your Bluetooth device. If it is so, you should try turning Bluetooth off on your Mac and then turning it back on again.

4. Is there any limit to sending files using AirDrop?

No, there is no limit to send files with AirDrop, which is the best part of this tool. AirDrop enables users to wirelessly share an unlimited number of files, images, videos, etc., with one another. However, the success of your quest will depend on the size of the files you wish to transfer and the processing capacity of both devices. Know that both parties (the sender and the receiver) won’t be able to use their device while the files are being transferred.

5. How much time it takes to send a 2 KB file using AirDrop?

AirDrop is one of the best tools for sharing files wirelessly. It allows you to send an unlimited number of photographs and videos instantly. Usually, sending a small file using AirDrop takes around 2 to 3 seconds. However, sending up to 20 GB takes around 30 seconds or so. Sending 2 KB files will take also take less than a minute.

When it comes to transferring files with AirDrop, several factors come into play, including the distance between devices, Wi-Fi signal quality, and devices’ processing speed. All of these will determine the time taken to AirDrop from iPhone to Mac.

6. Who can use AirDrop?

AirDrop is one of the in-built features in iPhones, iPads, and Macs. People who own iPhone 7 and letter versions can use AirDrop to share or transfer files. It makes sharing photos, videos, films, etc., a breeze for all.

7. Who would benefit from using AirDrop?

AirDrop share is good for everyone who has an Apple device. However, it benefits people who need to share large files instantly, such as professional photographers, video editors, and so on. It is important that both parties (the sender and receiver) have Apple devices and are in 30 ft proximity.

8. How can I send multiple files with AirDrop?

Sending multiple files may depend on various factors, including the distance between the devices, the processing speed, the size of the files, and the connectivity. If all that seems perfect, here are the steps that you need to follow to share a large file

STEP 1: Go to the folder where all files are stored. Select the files that you wish to transfer. Select all of them while holding down the Shift or Command key.

STEP 2: Once you have selected all the files, go to Finder Toolbar.

STEP 3: Now, click the AirDrop button that is located in the Finder toolbar.

STEP 4: Now, find the individual’s (the recipient’s) device to whom you would want to send the files by using the drop-down menu.

STEP 5: Now click on the “Send” button to begin transferring files with AirDrop.

When all of your files have been transferred, tap the Done button. That’s all!

9. How can I AirDrop between a Mac and an iPhone?

The process of transferring files with AirDrop is almost the same whether you want to send files from iPhone to Mac, iPhone to iPhone, or Mac to iPhone. Here are the steps that you need to follow to AirDrop from Mac to iPhone

First things first, check to be that both of your gadgets have their Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities turned on.
Now, go to the Finder Toolbar on your Mac and then access the folder that contains all of your files (images and movies).
Now, choose the file (s) that you wish to transfer using AirDrop. If you wish to transfer more than one file, then select all of them by holding down the Command key while clicking on each file.
Now, share these files using AirDrop from the menu.
Now, find the Apple device (iPhone or iPad) you wish to send an AirDrop to.
Now, you will get Send option; click on that.
Once all the files have been transferred, hit the Done button.

10. What kind of files can we transfer using AirDrop?

AirDrop allows you to send almost all kinds of files, including Contacts, Photos, Videos, Documents, and Passwords. This tool in Apple devices makes sharing and transferring files a cakewalk. However, it is mandatory that both parties have Apple devices for successful transmission.

Happy AirDropping… 😊 😊