AirDrop is one of the most useful and interesting features available in iOS 7 and 8. AirDrop allows you to easily and safely move files (including pictures, contacts, documents, etc.) from one iOS device to another. You don't need to be on the same network to share files, as the device creates a dedicated small Wi-Fi network for data sharing, and closes the network once the transfer is complete. AirDrop is easy to use, fast, and keeps your data safe while it's being transferred.
Step
Step 1. Make sure your device is compatible
AirDrop allows you to transfer files between your iOS device and OS X computer, but your device must meet certain requirements. AirDrop requires:
- iOS 7 or later (to transfer files between an iOS device and a Mac computer, iOS 8) is required
- iPhone 5 or later, iPad Mini, iPad Generation 4 or later, or iPod Touch Generation 5 or later.
- OS X Yosemite or later (if you want to share with a Mac computer)
Step 2. Enable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on the iOS device
You must enable both to use AirDrop.
You can access these options by swiping up from the bottom to open Control Center. Tap the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth buttons to turn on both functions
Step 3. Swipe from the bottom of the screen to open Control Center, if you haven't already
This panel lets you enable AirDrop.
Step 4. Tap the AirDrop button and select your privacy option
There are three AirDrop settings that appear when you tap the button:
- Off - This setting turns off AirDrop.
- Contacts Only - Only people on your contact list can find your AirDrop device. You need an Apple ID for this option to work.
- Everyone - Any iOS device adjacent to your device can find your AirDrop device.
Step 5. Open the file you want to share
For example, if you want to share a photo with AirDrop, open the photo in the Photos app.
Step 6. Tap on the Share button which is in the shape of a box with an arrow popping up from the top
Step 7. Tap the username of the recipient of your AirDrop file
All AirDrop users in close proximity will appear at the top of the Share pane. Tap a photo of a user to send the file to that user.
Step 8. Wait for the recipient to approve the file transfer
The recipient must receive the file before the transfer process begins.
Solution to problem
Step 1. Potential recipients don't appear on the list of AirDrop users
There are several reasons why the recipient may not appear:
- Make sure you and the recipient are signed in with the Apple ID on each other's devices.
- Make sure your device is eligible to use AirDrop.
- Make sure you and the recipient are in close proximity (less than 9 meters).
- Turn off Personal Hotspot on the device, if it is active.
- Make sure both devices have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled.
Step 2. The file transfer process is too slow or always fails
This problem usually arises because the distance between you and the recipient is too far. Approach the recipient and try sending the file again.
Step 3. Mac doesn't show up as AirDrop option
To be able to use AirDrop, you must be using OS X 10.10 (Yosemite) or later.
- Make sure AirDrop is enabled on your Mac and iOS device.
- Click the Bluetooth button on your Mac's menu bar.
- Select "Open Bluetooth Preferences" and wait a moment to turn on the Bluetooth adapter on the Mac.
- Try sharing something from your iOS device via AirDrop.
