[Super Simple Guide] How to Use Airdrop on iPhone11/12/13? (2024)

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Knowing how to use AirDrop on iPhone/iPad can come in handy when you're trying to transfer photos or files between friends. Whether it's transferring your data from one of your devices to another or sending someone else a file, airdropping is very convenient. If you're someone just switching over to the Apple ecosystem, you might not know how to use AirDrop. Don't worry, it's fairly easy and it only takes seconds to transfer files between your iPhone, iPad, or even Mac. Let's go over how you can AirDrop files from your iOS device and also what to do if, for some reason, your AirDrop isn't working.

  • How to Use AirDrop on Your iPhone/iPad
  • How to Use AirDrop from Macbook to iPhone
  • What to Do if You Can't AirDrop Photos?
    • Fix 1: Toggle Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
    • Fix 2: Check AirDrop Settings
    • Fix 3: Find the Best Alternative[Super Simple Guide] How to Use Airdrop on iPhone11/12/13? (1)
  • Conclusion
  • FAQs

How to Use AirDrop on Your iPhone/iPad

AirDrop is Apple's very own technique for using both your Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connection to transfer data across Apple devices. It's extremely fast and completely secure because all the data is encrypted. So there's no risk of your data being hacked by a third party while transferring it wirelessly. You can use AirDrop to send photos, mp3 files, documents, etc. to anyone who is within a 30-foot radius. As long as you are both using Apple devices, you can use AirDrop. The procedure is the same on both your iPhone and iPad. Here's how.

Step 1. Turn on Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
Since AirDrop uses both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, you also need to check that both of these are turned on. You can easily do this by swiping down on your home screen to go to the Control Center and checking if the three icons for AirDrop, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi are blue. You can also turn on the AirDrop option if you're going to be receiving files.

[Super Simple Guide] How to Use Airdrop on iPhone11/12/13? (2)

Step 2. Open the file
The first step is knowing how to turn on AirDrop on iPhone/iPad. Since AirDrop uses both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, you also need to check that both of these are turned on.
To share a file from your iPhone, you first need to navigate to the file you wish to send. If you are trying to transfer pictures, this should be in the Photos app. You can also try to look for your file in the Files app, which should hold all your documents, sheets, etc.
Step 3. Tap on the Share icon
Next, you need to tap on the Share icon which should be somewhere around the top bar of the screen or on the bottom. Once you tap on it, you should see a whole range of options for you to share your file.

[Super Simple Guide] How to Use Airdrop on iPhone11/12/13? (3)

Step 4. Tap on AirDrop
Once you tap on Share, you should see the AirDrop button at the top. Press on it and you'll see nearby devices that you can AirDrop the file to. Select the person or device you want to share the file with, and you're done! All that's left is for the other device to receive the file.
The other device will usually get a pop-up notification asking if they want to receive the file or not. Simply press Accept to receive, and the file is transferred to this device. If both devices are yours, you won't get this message.

[Super Simple Guide] How to Use Airdrop on iPhone11/12/13? (4)

Also Read: How to See Airdrop History on Your iPhone?

How to Use AirDrop From Mac to iPhone

The process of using AirDrop on your Mac is pretty similar to how you would use it on your iPhone. Firstly, check whether both your Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are turned on. Then go to the file you wish to transfer, and click on the Share button. You should see an option to AirDrop the file to nearby, available devices. If you want to know how to send photos from iPhone to Macbook using AirDrop, let's go over that as well. The steps are the same as those that would be used to share files between two iPhones.

Just make sure that your Macbook is discoverable, and you should be able to see the name of your Macbook popup on the share screen when you go to share a file from your iPhone. Now you know how to send pics from your iPhone to your MacBook using AirDrop as well!

What to Do If You Can't AirDrop Photos?

If you have managed to find out why your AirDrop isn't working, then it's pretty easy to fix the issue. However, if you can't figure out what's wrong, you can try turning your Bluetooth and Wi-Fi on and off, or restarting your phone. Check if there's anything turned off in the settings. And if everything else fails, use a file-sharing app like AirDroid Personal to transfer files. There are many alternatives to AirDrop, in case yours doesn't work. Download a file-sharing AirDroid personal and you can transfer your files between iOS devices, Windows, and even Mac. Here's why AirDroid is your best bet.

[Super Simple Guide] How to Use Airdrop on iPhone11/12/13? (5)

Transfer Files Across Platform

AirDrop only works with Apple devices. But with AirDroid Personal, you can transfer files seamlessly between all kinds of devices. This is especially useful because not everyone has an iOS device. You can also use AirDroid to share between your iPhone and Windows PC, in case you don't use a Mac. So there's no need to use different apps for different operating systems when you can use one to get the job done across all platforms!

No Compromise on Quality

If you have used texting apps to send your files or photos, you will have probably noticed that the quality drops significantly. Unlike other file-sharing apps, AirDroid does not compress your files and no data is lost in the transfer. All your photos and videos will have the same quality, even after transfer.

Super-Fast and Efficient

AirDroid Personal allows you to transfer files at 20MB/s, even without an internet connection. So you can send your files to your friends without any hassle. It does work best with WiFi and Bluetooth. Unlike AirDrop, you can use AirDroid to transfer files even over a local connection. Sometimes Apple won't let you AirDrop files if your hotspot is turned on. With AirDrop, that is not an issue. So the whole process is very efficient.

Other Features

AirDroid also comes with plenty of other features for you to play with. You can use this app to mirror your screen onto a larger screen or device to watch a movie. There's a messaging system within the app as well, so you can text your contacts after transferring a file. There's even a remote control setting for Android devices that allows you to control your device even if it's not with you.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to use AirDrop on iPhone/iPad, you can share your photos, music, files, etc. among your iOS devices without any hassle. AirDrop is safe, fast, and very reliable. However, in the small percentage of cases where it doesn't work, you can always use AirDroid to transfer your files instead.

FAQs

Can you AirDrop photos to Android devices?

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Charudatta

No, unfortunately, you can only send files using AirDrop between Apple or iOS devices. Android does not support the AirDrop feature since it uses Apple's technology. You can use a file-sharing app or just Bluetooth instead to transfer files to and from Android devices.

Is there a file size limit on AirDrop?

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Charudatta

No, there is no limit on the size of files you can share using AirDrop. This is especially helpful when you are trying to share files like movies between devices. Larger files will usually just take longer to share, but there is no size limit.

Where do the files from AirDrop get saved?

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Charudatta

Once you have received a file using AirDrop, you might be wondering where that file has been saved. Usually, you can find the file in the app it is related to. For instance, if you share a photo, the file should be in the Photos app, presentations will be in the Keynote app, and so on. If you can't find them anywhere, you can always look in the Files app.

Can you use AirDrop on older iPhones?

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Charudatta

If your iPhone is running an earlier version of iOS than iOS7, you will be unable to use AirDrop to transfer files. Only iOS7 and later phones support AirDrop. On older models, you can use simple Bluetooth to share your files or download a file-sharing app.

Does the quality of your pictures drop with AirDrop?

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Charudatta

No, AirDrop does not compress files while sending. Whenever you are sending pictures or videos, whether it be through messaging apps or even social networking apps, the quality usually drops. But when you share your files or pictures using AirDrop, there is no drop in quality!

I'm a tech enthusiast with a deep understanding of file-sharing technologies, particularly AirDrop and its alternatives. My expertise stems from practical experience and a comprehensive knowledge of the concepts involved. Now, let's delve into the article about AirDroid Personal and AirDrop.

AirDrop Overview: AirDrop is Apple's proprietary method for utilizing Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connections to swiftly and securely transfer data across Apple devices. It encrypts all data, ensuring the security of wireless transfers. The range extends up to 30 feet, allowing users to share photos, documents, and more. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use AirDrop on your iPhone/iPad:

  1. Turn on Wi-Fi and Bluetooth:

    • Swipe down on the home screen to access the Control Center.
    • Ensure AirDrop, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi icons are blue.
  2. Open the file:

    • Navigate to the file you want to send, e.g., in the Photos or Files app.
  3. Tap on the Share icon:

    • Tap on the Share icon to access sharing options.
  4. Tap on AirDrop:

    • Press the AirDrop button, choose the recipient's device, and the file is sent.

AirDrop from Mac to iPhone: Using AirDrop on a Mac involves a similar process. Check Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, select the file, and use the Share option. For sending photos from iPhone to MacBook, ensure the MacBook is discoverable.

Troubleshooting AirDrop: If AirDrop isn't working, try these fixes:

  1. Toggle Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
  2. Check AirDrop settings.
  3. Consider alternatives like AirDroid Personal.

AirDroid Personal as an Alternative: AirDroid Personal serves as a cross-platform file-sharing alternative to AirDrop, offering several advantages:

  • Transfer Across Platforms:

    • AirDroid works seamlessly between different devices and operating systems, including iOS, Windows, and Mac.
  • Quality Assurance:

    • Unlike some file-sharing apps, AirDroid maintains high-fidelity file transfer without compression.
  • Speed and Efficiency:

    • AirDroid allows fast file transfers at 20MB/s, even without internet, and works over local connections.
  • Additional Features:

    • AirDroid includes features like screen mirroring, in-app messaging, and remote control for Android devices.

Conclusion and FAQs: In conclusion, AirDrop is a reliable and secure option for Apple users, but when it fails, AirDroid Personal can step in. FAQs address common queries, such as file size limits, file destinations, and compatibility with older iPhones.

Feel free to ask if you have any specific questions or if you'd like more details on any aspect!

[Super Simple Guide] How to Use Airdrop on iPhone11/12/13? (2024)

FAQs

How do you use AirDrop step by step? ›

Anytime you see a Share button on your phone (the rectangle icon with an arrow pointing up), you can use AirDrop. For example, if you wanted to send an image from the Photos app, select the Share button, then hit AirDrop. Next, a window will appear showing everyone with AirDrop enabled that you can send that photo to.

What is AirDrop and how does it work? ›

AirDrop uses a cool way of transferring files between phones. It uses Bluetooth on your phone to broadcast and create connections between two devices. Then it uses point-to-point Wi-Fi to transfer the data between the two devices.

What does the AirDrop icon look like? ›

Press and hold the WiFi button and Bluetooth options to turn them on. Next, tap the AirDrop icon — it resembles a triangle inside four concentric circles. You should see a menu with options to choose who can send files to your device.

How to find someone on AirDrop? ›

If the person you're sharing content with is in your Contacts, you'll see an image with their name. If they're not in your Contacts, you'll see just their name without an image. 2. Only available if both you and your contact are using an iPhone with iOS 17.

Can you AirDrop to someone far away? ›

Range: The maximum range for AirDrop transfers is about 30 feet (10 meters). Speed: The transfer speed will vary depending on the size of the file and the capabilities of the devices involved. Apple-Exclusive: AirDrop is only available on Apple devices, such as iPhones, iPads, Macs, and iPod touches.

How do I transfer files using AirDrop? ›

From the desktop or a Finder window: Control-click the item you want to send, choose Share from the shortcut menu, choose AirDrop, then select the device you want to send the item to. From the Finder: Click AirDrop in the Finder sidebar, then drag the item to the device you want to send it to.

Why isn t my AirDrop working iPhone 11? ›

If AirDrop isn't working on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac, ensure Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are on. Make sure that your Apple devices are all up to date and your iPhone is unlocked. Be sure to restart your devices after making changes to your settings and try AirDrop again.

How do I know if AirDrop is enabled? ›

Finally, choose who can send files to your device.

Note: If you only see Receiving Off, and you can't change it, go to Settings > Screen Time > Content and Privacy Restrictions. Then select Allowed apps and tap the slider next to AirDrop. You will know it is enabled if it is green.

How does AirDrop identify contacts? ›

In Contacts Only mode, the received AirDrop short identity hash is compared with hashes of people in the receiving device's Contacts app. If a match is found, the receiving device responds over peer-to-peer Wi-Fi with its identity information. If there is no match, the device doesn't respond.

How do I use AirDrop for the first time? ›

Send an item using AirDrop
  1. Open the item on your iPhone, then tap , Share, AirDrop, , or another button that displays the app's sharing options.
  2. Tap. , then tap the AirDrop user you want to share with. (You can also use AirDrop to share between your own devices.)

Should AirDrop be on or off? ›

Leaving it on all the time can be an unnecessary risk.” When you turn on AirDrop, it stays on unless you disable it. Second, when you are using it, he recommends setting it to receive files from Contacts Only.

Why would someone use AirDrop? ›

And some Android devices use a combination of Near Field Communications (NFC) and Bluetooth to share files. But both Bluetooth and NFC are relatively slow compared to Wi-Fi, which makes sharing larger files using AirDrop much faster and more convenient.

How do I transfer everything from iPhone 11 to iPhone 13? ›

Transfer data to a new iPhone or iPad using a wireless connection with Quick Start. Make sure that your current device is connected to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth is on. Turn on your new device and place it near your current device. Follow the onscreen instructions to get started.

Why can't I AirDrop between iPhones? ›

If you're having issues or can't send files with AirDrop, adjust your AirDrop receiving settings in Control Center. Make sure that your devices have the latest operating system version, you have turned Wi-Fi and Bluetooth off and on, or you have restarted your devices.

How to AirDrop between iPhones? ›

Send an item using AirDrop
  1. Open the item on your iPhone, then tap , Share, AirDrop, , or another button that displays the app's sharing options.
  2. Tap. , then tap the AirDrop user you want to share with. (You can also use AirDrop to share between your own devices.)

Can I AirDrop from old iPhone to new iPhone? ›

Yes, you can set up your new iPhone from the old one using iCloud backup, iTunes, or Quick Start. How do I transfer data from iPhone to iPhone wirelessly? You can wirelessly transfer data between your iPhones using tools like iCloud, AirDrop, or third-party software like AirDroid Personal.

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