Updated: April 23, 2025

How to Use AirDrop on iPhone: Share Files Easily 2025 Guide

Sharing photos, videos, or documents between iPhones doesn’t have to be complicated. With AirDrop, Apple’s wireless sharing feature, you can send files to nearby Apple devices in seconds—no internet or cables needed!

This step-by-step guide will walk you through everything you need to know about AirDrop in 2025, perfect for beginners or anyone who wants to master this handy tool.

What is AirDrop?

AirDrop lets you wirelessly share files between iPhones, iPads, or Macs. It uses Bluetooth to find nearby devices and Wi-Fi to transfer files quickly. Whether you’re sending vacation photos to a friend or a school project to a classmate, AirDrop makes it easy.

Why Use AirDrop?

No internet required: Works offline.
Fast transfers: Share large files in seconds.
Secure: Files are encrypted for privacy.

Before You Start: AirDrop Requirements

To use AirDrop, your iPhone needs:

Bluetooth turned on (even if you’re not connected to a device).
Wi-Fi enabled (but you don’t need to join a network).
iOS 17 or later (check your iOS version in Settings > General > Software Update).

Important:

Turn off Personal Hotspot (Settings > Cellular > Personal Hotspot) if it’s on.
Make sure both devices are within 30 feet (Bluetooth range).

For more tips on managing Wi-Fi and Bluetooth settings, check out our iPhone Wi-Fi settings guide and detailed iPhone Bluetooth guide.

Step 1: Turn On AirDrop

AirDrop settings control who can send you files. Here’s how to adjust them:

Option 1: Use Control Center (Quickest Method)

Swipe down from the top-right corner of your screen to open Control Center.
Press and hold the network settings card (top-left box with Wi-Fi/Bluetooth icons).
Tap AirDrop.
Choose:
- Receiving Off: No one can send you files.
- Contacts Only: Only people in your contacts can see your device.
- Everyone: All nearby Apple devices can send you files (use this temporarily).

Option 2: Use Settings (For Older iPhones)

Go to Settings > General > AirDrop.
Select your preferred visibility option.

Pro Tip: Set AirDrop to Contacts Only for security. If sharing with someone new, switch to Everyone and change it back later.

Need help with other iPhone settings? Explore our Ultimate iPhone Settings Guide for more tips.

Step 2: How to Send Files with AirDrop

Let’s say you want to share a photo:

Open the Photos app and select the photo(s) you want to send.
Tap the Share button at the bottom-left.
Under AirDrop, nearby devices will appear. Tap the recipient’s name or device.
- If their device isn’t showing up, ask them to turn on AirDrop (see Step 1).
The recipient will get a pop-up to Accept or Decline. Once they accept, the transfer starts!

What Can You Send with AirDrop?

Photos and videos
Documents (PDFs, presentations)
Website links
Contacts

iOS 17 or later bonus: If you’re sharing photos, bring your iPhone close to the recipient’s device to auto-share (no need to tap their name).

Step 3: How to Receive Files with AirDrop

When someone sends you a file:

A pop-up will appear saying “[Name] wants to share [file].”
Tap Accept to save it.
- Photos go to your Photos app.
- Links open in Safari.
- Documents save to the Files app.

Why Can’t I Receive Files?

AirDrop is set to Receiving Off.
The sender isn’t in your contacts (ask them to set AirDrop to Everyone).
Check our iPhone General Settings Explained for help with updates or storage issues.

AirDrop Troubleshooting Guide

Problem: The recipient’s device isn’t showing up.
Solution:

Ensure both devices have Bluetooth and Wi-Fi on.
Turn off Airplane Mode (Swipe into Control Center to check).
Make sure both devices are signed into iCloud (Settings > [Your Name]).
Restart both devices.

Problem: The transfer is slow or stuck.
Solution:

Move devices closer together.
Avoid crowded areas (too many Bluetooth signals can interfere).

For more connectivity fixes, see our iPhone Bluetooth Guide.

AirDrop Safety Tips

Avoid “Everyone” Mode in Public: Only use this setting with people you trust.
Decline Unknown Files: If a stranger tries to send you something, tap Decline.
Turn Off AirDrop After Use: Switch it back to Contacts Only or Receiving Off.

FAQ: 5 Common AirDrop Questions Answered

Q: How far can devices be for AirDrop to work?
A: AirDrop works best when devices are within 30 feet (9 meters) of each other. Walls, furniture, or other obstacles can reduce this range. For the strongest connection, keep devices in the same room. If you’re having trouble, check out our iPhone Bluetooth guide to ensure your settings are optimized.
Q: Is there a file size limit for AirDrop?
A: No! AirDrop can handle large files like 4K videos or multi-gigabyte documents. However, make sure both devices have enough storage space. If transfers fail, review your iPhone storage settings to free up space.
Q: Can I AirDrop to multiple people at once?
A: Yes! Select multiple files (like photos), tap the Share button, then choose multiple recipients from the AirDrop list. Note: Each person will need to accept the files individually.
Q: Why does my iPhone say “No Devices Found” in AirDrop?
A: This usually means:
- The recipient’s AirDrop is set to Receiving Off or Contacts Only(and you’re not in their contacts).
- Bluetooth/Wi-Fi is off on either device.
- The devices are too far apart.
  For step-by-step fixes, visit our connectivity troubleshooting guide.
Q: Can I use AirDrop while on a phone call?
A: Yes! AirDrop uses Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, not cellular data, so it won’t interrupt calls. However, if you’re using Wi-Fi for the call (like FaceTime), large AirDrop transfers might slow it down.

Conclusion
AirDrop is a game-changer for sharing files between iPhones, iPads, and Macs. Whether you’re collaborating on a project, sending memes to friends, or backing up precious memories, this tool makes it fast and secure. Just remember to: