Why Is AirDrop Not Working? (7 Ways to Resolve It)

AirDrop is a handy feature that allows Apple users to share files quickly between devices. But when AirDrop stops working, it can be frustrating. Many people wonder why AirDrop is not working and how to fix it. This issue can happen on iPhones, iPads and Macs, causing problems for those who rely on them. This article will look at top seven answers to why is airdrop not working to solve AirDrop issues on iOS devices.

Why Is AirDrop Not Working?

We can understand why people get mad when they see the “AirDrop stopped working” message. There are several reasons why AirDrop might not work as it should. If users know about these reasons, they can better troubleshoot and fix the problem.

• Wi-Fi or Bluetooth Turned Off: AirDrop needs Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to work. Make sure you turn on both of devices you are using. If they are already on, try turning them off and on again. This often fixes connection problems.
• Wrong AirDrop Settings: Look at the AirDrop settings on both devices. Set them to “Everyone” or “Contacts ” if you’re sharing with someone in your contacts. If that doesn’t work, try switching to “Everyone for 10 Minutes”.
• Old Software Versions: Keep your devices updated with the newest iOS or macOS versions. Updates often fix bugs that can cause problems with AirDrop.
• Device Compatibility: AirDrop doesn’t work on all older Apple devices. Make sure both devices meet AirDrop’s basic needs.
• Device-Specific Issues: Some things, like a locked iPhone or tough firewall settings on a Mac, can stop devices from showing up for AirDrop.
• Personal Hotspot Interference: AirDrop won’t run if you’ve turned on the personal hotspot on an iPhone. Turn this off to use AirDrop.
• Network-Related Problems: Things like messed up network settings outdated iCloud logins, or being hooked up to a VPN can mess with how AirDrop works.
• Distance Between Devices: AirDrop uses Bluetooth to find nearby devices. The connection might not work if devices are more than 30 feet apart.
• Post-Update Glitches: Software updates can cause AirDrop problems. This happens because of compatibility issues or bugs in the new version.
• “Waiting” State: AirDrop might seem to work but then get stuck saying “waiting.” This can happen because of software glitches or when devices are too far apart.
• “No People Found” Error: This error can pop up if the person you’re trying to send to has their settings on “Off” or “Contacts .” Also, if their device is turned off, locked, or asleep, you won’t be able to find it.
• Airplane or Do Not Disturb Mode: These modes can have an impact on how AirDrop works by stopping the device from getting requests.
• Potential Hardware Issues: If steps to fix the problem don’t work, ongoing issues might point to broken Wi-Fi or Bluetooth parts, meaning you need to get it fixed by a pro.

Fix AirDrop Not Working (Top 7 Ways)

When AirDrop stops working, it can be frustrating. In this regard, here are seven effective ways to solve AirDrop issues:

Check Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Settings

AirDrop relies on both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to function. Make sure these are turned on. Go to your device’s settings and toggle Wi-Fi and Bluetooth off and on again. This simple step can often resolve connection issues.

Keep Devices Near Each Other

AirDrop works best when devices are within 30 feet of each other. If your devices are too far apart, bring them closer. Things in the way or other electronic gadgets nearby can also make the connection weaker so try to remove these obstacles.

Adjust AirDrop Settings

Take a look at your AirDrop options to ensure they aren’t limiting connections. Head to Settings > General > AirDrop. Choose “Contacts ” or “Everyone for 10 Minutes” to enable sharing. If you can’t change this option, you might need to adjust your Screen Time options.

Restart Your Devices

A quick restart can often solve AirDrop problems. Switch off your iPhone, iPad, or Mac, wait a bit then power it back on. This can clear short-term hiccups that might cause AirDrop to act up.

Turn off Personal Hotspot

Your iPhone’s Personal Hotspot can interfere with AirDrop. To fix this, go to your settings then switch off Personal Hotspot and give AirDrop another shot. This fix often gets AirDrop working again between your devices.

Update Operating System

Old software can lead to problems. Check that your devices have the newest iOS, iPadOS or macOS version. Head to Settings, General, Software Update to see if you need any updates and install them.

Reset Network Settings

If nothing else works, try to reset your network settings. On iOS devices, go to Settings, General, Reset and Reset Network Settings. This will erase all saved Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth connections, so you’ll need to connect to your Wi-Fi again afterward.

When using these fixes, remember that AirDrop might not work if your device’s battery is low. If your battery is under 20%, try charging your device before attempting AirDrop again. Plus, check if you have enough storage space on your device. If your storage is full, you probably not be able to receive files via AirDrop. Free up some space if needed.

Fix AirDrop Not Working on Mac

When AirDrop stops working on a Mac, it can be a real headache. But don’t worry, there are several steps you can take to get it up and running again. Here’s how to fix AirDrop not working on your Mac:

First, check your Mac’s compatibility. AirDrop works on Macs released in 2012 or later, running OS X Yosemite or newer. If your Mac meets these requirements but AirDrop isn’t listed in the Finder sidebar, use the keyboard shortcut Command-Shift-R to open it.

Next, make sure both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are turned on. These are essential for AirDrop to function. Go to your Mac’s System Settings and toggle Wi-Fi and Bluetooth off and on again. This simple action can often resolve connection issues.

Take a look at your AirDrop settings in the Finder. Go to the menu bar, click “Go”, and pick “AirDrop.” At the bottom of the window, you’ll spot “Allow me to be discovered by:” Click this and pick “Everyone” or “Contacts.” If AirDrop stopped working, try switching to “Everyone for 10 Minutes” to see if that fixes the issue.

• Sometimes, your Mac’s firewall settings can get in the way of AirDrop. To tweak these:
• Click the Apple symbol in the menu bar and select “System Settings.”
• Go to the “Network” menu.
• Click “Firewall” and then “Options.”
• Turn off “Block all incoming connections.”
• Turn on “Automatically allow built-in software to receive incoming connections.”

Remember, changing firewall settings might affect your Mac’s security. If you’re using a work device, check with your IT administrator before making changes.

If AirDrop is still not working, try these additional steps:

If you’ve tried all these solutions and AirDrop is still not working, it might indicate a more serious hardware issue. In this case, it’s best to contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store for professional assistance. They can diagnose any potential hardware problems and provide more advanced solutions to get your AirDrop functioning properly again.

In Closing

Apple users will find AirDrop useful. It’s quick and easy to share things. While it works, it can be annoying when it stops. We’ve talked about the main reasons why AirDrop might not work in this piece. On iOS and Macs, we’ve also talked about how to fix it.

Most of the time, these tips will help you get AirDrop to work again. Check your settings, make sure your software is up to date, and keep your electronic devices close. Don’t worry if nothing works. You can share things in other ways if you want to. Apple Support is also there to help if nothing else works. You can share things again right away with these tools.

FAQs

• Why is AirDrop not working on my iPhone or Mac?

AirDrop may not work due to issues like disabled Wi-Fi/Bluetooth, incorrect AirDrop settings, outdated software, or device compatibility problems.

• How can I fix AirDrop not working?

Restart your device, toggle Wi-Fi/Bluetooth, adjust AirDrop settings, disable Personal Hotspot, update your software, and ensure both devices are near each other.

• Why is AirDrop not finding anyone?

This can happen if AirDrop is set to “Contacts Only” and the recipient isn’t in your contacts or if devices are too far apart. Switch to “Everyone for 10 Minutes” in settings.

• How do I turn on AirDrop for everyone?

On iOS: Go to Settings > General > AirDrop, select “Everyone for 10 Minutes.”

On Mac: Open Finder > Go > AirDrop, and choose “Everyone.”

• Can AirDrop work without Wi-Fi or Bluetooth?

No, AirDrop requires both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to share files.

• What do I do if AirDrop is still not working after trying everything?

Try resetting network settings or contact Apple Support for potential hardware issues.