Why won't AirDrop find the other device?

AirDrop needs both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on, and both devices must be unlocked and within ~30 feet. Check that AirDrop receiving is set to 'Everyone for 10 Minutes' or 'Contacts Only.' If set to 'Receiving Off,' nobody can send to that device.

How do I turn on AirDrop on iPhone?

Open Control Center (swipe down from top right on newer iPhones, up from bottom on older). Long-press the connectivity card (Wi-Fi/Bluetooth area), tap AirDrop, choose Everyone for 10 Minutes.

Why does AirDrop work one direction but not the other?

Usually one device has 'Receiving Off' or 'Contacts Only' set and the sender isn't in their contacts. Switch the receiver to 'Everyone for 10 Minutes' as a test. If that fixes it, you need to add each other to contacts.

AirDrop Not Working? 6 Fixes

By Isaac Farris·Updated May 23, 2026·4 minute read

AirDrop is the easiest way to move files between Apple devices, when it works. When it doesn't, it's frustrating because you can SEE the other device but it won't connect. Here's the fix.

Quick fix to try first

On both devices, set AirDrop to Everyone for 10 Minutes. On iPhone: Control Center, long-press the Wi-Fi area, tap AirDrop, Everyone. Solves most "can't see device" problems. The setting expires after 10 minutes for security.

1. Both devices need Wi-Fi AND Bluetooth on

AirDrop uses both. Check Control Center on each device. Both icons should be highlighted blue.

2. Both devices unlocked

AirDrop doesn't work when either device is locked. Wake both screens, unlock with Face ID or passcode.

3. Distance: within 30 feet

AirDrop uses Bluetooth for discovery and Wi-Fi for the actual transfer. Both work best within 30 feet, no walls between.

4. Both devices on the same Apple Account region

Less common, but if one device is set to a different country/region, AirDrop sometimes fails. Settings > General > Language & Region.

5. Restart both devices

Turn both off completely, wait 30 seconds, turn back on. Forces network stacks to reset.

6. Personal Hotspot off

If you have Personal Hotspot on, it can interfere with AirDrop. Turn it off temporarily: Settings > Personal Hotspot > off.

AirDrop on Mac

Same rules. Open Finder > AirDrop. Set "Allow me to be discovered by" to Everyone or Contacts Only. Make sure Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are on. Drag files to the device shown in the AirDrop window.

AirDrop still not working?

Send us a quick email. We can usually figure out what's blocking it.

Get in touch Email Isaac

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