AirDrop is a convenient wireless file-sharing feature that enables quick transfers between Apple devices, such as Macbooks, iPhones, and iPads. Whether you’re looking to exchange files with your own devices or share with other Apple users, mastering AirDrop will make you abandon slower alternatives for good!
Benefits of AirDrop
While there are various methods to transfer data across Apple devices, including iCloud, AirDrop has some compelling advantages. Here’s why you should consider using AirDrop:
- No need for an Internet connection or extra software—AirDrop simplifies file sharing between compatible Apple devices.
- Utilizing Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, AirDrop establishes a direct peer-to-peer connection that allows for significantly faster data transfers compared to traditional sharing methods.
- Data privacy is prioritized, as the transfer process employs encryption.
- AirDrop accommodates a multitude of file types.
- This feature is universally available on all Apple devices equipped with Bluetooth Low Energy technology, which encompasses virtually all recent models.
To begin utilizing AirDrop for your file transfers, you first need to ensure that the feature is activated on your devices.
Using AirDrop on macOS
Most Macs have AirDrop enabled by default, but it’s wise to verify the settings to ensure seamless file sharing. Start by confirming that both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are activated on your Mac.
Navigate to the menu bar and click on Go, then select AirDrop.
In the AirDrop window, you may observe the label No One at the bottom, indicating that the option is off. Click this option and select either Everyone or Contacts Only to adjust the sharing preferences.
Alternatively, AirDrop can be accessed via the Control Center icon in the menu bar. Click this icon, then select the AirDrop option.
If AirDrop is not already enabled, toggle it on. You can also choose your sharing preferences by adjusting the options next to AirDrop.
Sending Files via AirDrop
Ensure that the Macs are in close proximity, ideally within 10 meters (30 feet), and that Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are active. On the Mac designated to send files, open AirDrop, which will display nearby compatible devices.
Simply drag and drop the files onto the intended recipient’s device. This method also allows for multiple files to be sent simultaneously. The recipient will receive a notification and can either accept or decline the transfer; if accepted, the files will be automatically saved on their device.
If sharing between your devices, there is no need for confirmation—the files will automatically either open in the relevant app or save in the designated folder.
Another way to send files is by right-clicking on the desired file and selecting Share from the context menu.
Then, choose AirDrop from the menu.
Select the recipient from the pop-up window.
Upon recipient approval, the file is on its way to their device.
For an alternative method, access Finder via its icon in your dock.
Select the AirDrop option from the sidebar and drag the item to the intended recipient’s name.
Using AirDrop on iPhone and iPad
To utilize AirDrop on your iOS device, open the Control Center by swiping down from the upper-right corner (on devices without a home button) or swiping up from the bottom (on devices with a home button).
In the Control Center, tap the AirDrop icon, which resembles a radar signal, to activate the feature.
For additional options, long-press the AirDrop icon.
Choose between Contacts Only or Everyone options. In some regions, Everyone for 10 Minutes may appear instead.
To deactivate AirDrop, long-press on the icon again in Control Center and select Receiving Off.
You can also activate AirDrop via the Settings app. Go to Settings → General.
From there, locate and select AirDrop.
Choose either Contacts Only or Everyone to enable the feature, or deactivate it from this menu.
To share files, find the item you wish to send, tap the Share button.
Tap on the AirDrop option from the sharing menu, which will search for nearby compatible devices.
Select the intended recipient from the list of nearby devices.
The recipient will be notified of the incoming file, which they can either accept or decline. If accepted, the content will be saved directly to their device.
Transferring Files Between macOS and iOS Devices
The process for sending files between a Mac and an iOS device follows the same steps outlined previously for both systems. Begin by activating AirDrop on your Mac or iOS device, then select the target device from the visible list of nearby devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I share files with non-Apple devices using AirDrop? No, AirDrop is specifically designed for Apple devices. The proprietary technology it utilizes is not compatible with devices from other manufacturers. To share files with non-Apple devices, consider using email, cloud storage, or third-party file-sharing applications.
Are all file types transferable via AirDrop? Yes, as long as the recipient’s device can support the file type. AirDrop can share a variety of files, including photos, videos, and documents. However, some file types might not be accessible on certain devices, necessitating the recipient to download the appropriate application to view them.
Where do my AirDrop files go? Typically, files will be saved in the application from which they were shared. For instance, a photo transferred from the Photos app will appear in the same app. Conversely, on iPhones and iPads, files may often end up in the Files app, while on Macs, they may be found in the Downloads folder.
What is NameDrop? Introduced with iOS 17, NameDrop enhances the AirDrop experience by allowing users to share contact details, along with photos and videos, simply by bringing two iPhones close to one another. This feature is exclusive to iPhones. To activate it, access Settings → General → AirDrop and enable the Bring Devices Together option.Source & Images
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