How to Send Items with AirDrop: The Ultimate Guide to Transferring Files on Apple

If you're an Apple device user, you've probably at some point needed to transfer photos, documents, videos, or links easily and wirelessly. This is where AirDrop comes into play, a tool that many overlook but that, when used correctly, can save you not only time, but also multiple headaches when sharing files between iPhone, iPad o Mac.

Whether you've never used AirDrop before or are already a bit experienced, this guide is designed for those looking to send items quickly and for those who want to troubleshoot common issues, discover Tricks and optimize this function to the maximum. This way, you'll learn not only the basic steps but also the most useful settings, benefits, limitations, and solutions related to AirDrop.

What is AirDrop and why is it worth using?

AirDrop is a native feature of Apple devices that allows you to send any type of file wirelessly between Apple devices. Originally launched in 2011, it has established itself as the most convenient and fastest method for transferring photos, videos, documents, links, contacts or locations between iPhone, iPad and Mac. You can find more information about compatibility and configurations in our article about How to Sync iBooks with iPhone in 3 Methods.

Its great advantage is that it does not require cables, additional applications or an internet connection. All you need is for the devices to have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled and be close together (within 10 meters). Using Bluetooth technology to find nearby devices and Wi-Fi Direct for data transfer, AirDrop strikes an ideal balance between speed and low battery consumptionNeither Bluetooth alone (which is slow) nor traditional Wi-Fi (which consumes more battery) can match this combined performance.

Additionally, AirDrop encrypts files sent end-to-end, ensuring that only the intended recipient can access the content. This makes it a much more secure option compared to traditional methods or third-party applications.

What can you send using AirDrop?

AirDrop's versatility is one of its strongest points. You can send virtually any file or digital item, as long as the app you're sharing it from allows it:

• Images and videos: Send photos or recorded clips from the Photos app to another iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
• Documents: From PDFs, Word, Excel, or other supported formats using the Files app.
• web links: Quickly share open pages in Safari or even apps recommended.
• Contacts: Transfer data from your calendar without having to type anything manually.
• Locations: Send exact positions from Maps or Google Maps.
• Songs and audio clips: If the apps allow it, like Apple Music.
• Passwords, notes, shortcuts and more: Always depending on the support of each app.

You can even share internal app elements, such as iCloud passwords or links to apps on the App Store. AirDrop is therefore the recommended option for sharing any digital information between Apple devices.

AirDrop Requirements and Compatibility

Before you try to send files, make sure you meet the following conditions for AirDrop to work properly:

• Only works between Apple devices: AirDrop is exclusive to devices with iOS, iPadOS, macOS or tvOS. Forget about using it with Android o Windows.
• Compatible models: iPhone 5 or later, iPad 4th generation or later, iPod Touch 5th generation or later, and all Macs since 2012 running at least OS X Yosemite. You can check compatibility in our article on How to send music via SMS to my iPhone.
• WiFi and Bluetooth enabled on both devices: In addition, you must disable the "Personal Hotspot" during the transfer.
• Nearby devices (about 10 meters): Greater distance can make detection and connection more difficult.
• AirDrop must be enabled on both devices: You can set it to receive files only from contacts or anyone nearby.

Important: If you use the same Apple ID on both devices, files will be transferred automatically without any opt-in notifications.

How to activate and configure AirDrop

The first step to using AirDrop is to turn it on and decide who can send you files. You can do it from two places:

From Settings

1. Opens Settings and enters General admission.
2. press AirDrop and select an option:
   • Do not receive: No one will be able to find you to send you files.
   • Only contacts: Only your Apple contacts will be able to send you items (requires having their Apple ID or email saved).
   • All: Any nearby Apple device will be able to find you (in recent versions, this option only stays active for 10 minutes for security before reverting to "Contacts Only").

From Control Center (faster)

1. Swipe up from the top right corner to open Control Center.
2. Press and hold the connections box (where WiFi/Bluetooth appears).
3. Press the icon AirDrop.
4. Choose between Do not receive, Only contacts o All.

Make sure to adjust this setting on both devices that will participate in the transfer.

How to send files with AirDrop

Once set up, sending any item via AirDrop is really simple, and the process is very similar across all supported apps. The basic steps:

1. Open the app you want to share the file from (Photos, Files, Notes, Safari, etc.).
2. Select the file or files you want to send.
3. Press the button Share (icon of a box with an arrow pointing up).
4. Choose AirDrop in the share menu.
5. Select the device or recipient.

The recipient will receive a notification to accept or reject the file, unless both devices are registered with the same Apple ID, further streamlining the process. On devices like a Mac, you can right-click the file and choose Share > AirDrop.

How to accept and save files received with AirDrop

When someone sends you something with AirDrop, you'll see an on-screen alert to accept or decline. If you accept it, the behavior depends on the file type:

• Images and videos: They are automatically saved in the Photos app.
• Documents: They are stored in the Files app, or you can choose the location.
• web links: They open in Safari immediately.
• Contacts: They are added to the agenda when accepted.
• On Mac: Everything usually goes into the folder Downloads.

If you receive multiple files at once, AirDrop groups the content and delivers it by type to the appropriate app.

Troubleshooting: AirDrop not working?

One of the most frustrating problems can be AirDrop not working properly. If you are having trouble, please review the following points, as most errors are quickly resolved:

• Reboot both devices: Many connectivity issues can be resolved by power cycling your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
• Check compatibility: Make sure both devices support AirDrop and are updated to the latest version of iOS, iPadOS, or macOS available for them.
• Disable Personal Hotspot: If you have Hotspot enabled, AirDrop won't work. Disable it in Settings.
• Check the reception settings: You may not be able to receive files because your device is set to "Contacts Only" or "No One." Change this setting to "Everyone" for testing.
• Bring the devices closer together: The maximum recommended distance is about 10 meters. If that fails, try moving them closer together.
• Unlock the receiving device: If your iPhone/iPad is asleep or the screen is off, AirDrop won't work until you turn it on.
• Pending updates: Sometimes updating the operating system resolves recent incompatibilities.
• Technical assistance: If none of this helps, you can contact Apple support or try more advanced methods like DFU mode (although this is extreme and rare).

Most AirDrop issues can be resolved in a few seconds, especially if you follow these tips carefully.

Extra tips and best practices with AirDrop

To get the most out of AirDrop and avoid surprises, keep these recommendations in mind:

• Rename your devices: If you have multiple Apple devices, changing the name helps you easily distinguish between them when sending or receiving files.
• Disable AirDrop if you're not going to use it: This way, you'll avoid unwanted requests from strangers if you regularly select the "Everyone" option.
• Use the same Apple ID for automatic transfers: It will be faster and you won't have to manually accept each shipment.
• Always check the type of file received: Especially if it's from someone you don't know, although AirDrop encryption adds an extra layer of security.

Mastering AirDrop means saying goodbye to cables and file-sharing headaches within the Apple ecosystem. With just a few simple steps, you can send and receive anything quickly, and if any problems arise, there are a number of simple solutions available to anyone. Whatever your level, AirDrop can become your greatest ally for fast, secure, and unlimited transfers within the Apple environment.