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What to Do When AirDrop Is Not Working

Troubleshoot Apple devices that cannot see or send to one another.

Quick Answer

Check Wi-Fi/Bluetooth, AirDrop receiving settings, proximity, device unlock state, and Personal Hotspot restrictions before retrying.

Step by Step

  1. Open the relevant Apple app or Settings section on the iPhone or iPad.
  2. Check Wi-Fi/Bluetooth, AirDrop receiving settings, proximity, device unlock state, and Personal Hotspot restrictions before retrying.
  3. Review the result before deleting data, removing an account, or changing synchronization settings.
  4. For important data, confirm a current backup exists before making a major storage, account, or device change.

If That Doesn't Work

  • Apple occasionally moves settings between iOS/iPadOS versions, so exact menu wording can differ by software version.
  • iCloud synchronization is not the same as a separate backup of every item; deleting synchronized content can propagate to other devices.