13 Solutions to Fix AirDrop Issues on iPhone and Mac

ByJim Miller

AirDrop is a convenient feature that allows you to easily transfer files and data between Apple devices. However, there are times when AirDrop may stop working or get stuck on waiting. In this article, we will explore 13 effective solutions to fix AirDrop issues on your iPhone and Mac. Let's dive right in!

1. Unlock Your Devices

In some instances, your iPhone may not appear on the AirDrop list if it is locked. Ensure that your iPhone is unlocked before using AirDrop. The same applies to your Mac – it needs to be unlocked in order to use AirDrop. Simply enter your password or use Touch ID to unlock your Mac, and then try using AirDrop again.

2. Keep Devices Closer

To successfully send and receive files using AirDrop, it is important to keep the devices within 30 feet (9 meters) of each other. If you exceed this distance, there is a chance that AirDrop won't work or an ongoing transfer may get canceled.

3. Restart Your iPhone and Mac

Sometimes, a quick restart can resolve common issues with AirDrop. Here's how to restart your iPhone and Mac:

  • iPhone: Press and hold the side button and one of the volume buttons for a few seconds. Slide to power off your iPhone, wait for a few minutes, and then turn it on by holding the side button.
  • Mac: Click on the Apple logo in the menu bar, select Restart, and confirm the restart in the pop-up window.

4. Update iOS and macOS

Ensure that your iPhone and Mac are running the latest version of iOS and macOS. Updating your devices can often fix bugs and improve AirDrop functionality.

5. Turn Bluetooth Off and On

AirDrop requires Bluetooth to transfer files. If AirDrop is malfunctioning on your iPhone or Mac, try turning off Bluetooth and then turning it back on after a few seconds.

6. Keep Your Wi-Fi and Bluetooth On

Make sure that both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are enabled on your iPhone and Mac. AirDrop relies on these connections to function properly.

7. Turn AirDrop off and On (Mac)

If you are experiencing issues with AirDrop on your Mac, try turning it off for a while and then turning it back on. This simple trick can often resolve the problem.

8. Check AirDrop Visibility Settings

By default, AirDrop visibility is set to “Contacts Only” on iPhones and Macs. If you are trying to AirDrop to someone who is not in your contacts, they may not see your device on their list. Change the AirDrop visibility to “Everyone” to successfully use AirDrop with anyone.

9. Turn Off Hotspot on iPhone

AirDrop does not work when the hotspot is enabled on your iPhone. Disable the hotspot by going to Settings > Personal Hotspot and toggling off “Allow Others to Join.”

10. Turn Off VPN

If your iPhone or Mac is connected to a VPN, AirDrop may not work correctly. Disable the VPN and try using AirDrop again.

11. Delete Emails From Contacts and Add Them Back (iPhone)

If you are repeatedly failing to AirDrop to a specific contact on your iPhone, try deleting their email address from their contact and then adding it back. This has worked for some users who experienced similar issues.

12. Reset Network Settings (iPhone)

If there is an issue with your network settings that is affecting AirDrop, resetting the network settings on your iPhone can help. Note that this will delete all saved Wi-Fi passwords and Bluetooth devices.

13. Block All Incoming Connections (Mac)

Check if the “Block all incoming connections” option is enabled on your Mac. If it is, disable it to allow AirDrop to function properly.

By following these solutions, you can easily resolve AirDrop issues on your iPhone and Mac. Enjoy seamless file transfers between your devices using AirDrop!