1. Is my file transfer data secure?
Yes. All AirDrop transfers use end-to-end encryption with AES-128. The initial discovery only exchanges encrypted contact tokens in “Contacts Only” mode—no personal data is shared until you accept a transfer.
Even in “Everyone” mode, the actual file data is not transmitted until you manually accept the transfer, ensuring you remain in control at all times.
2. How far apart can devices be for a reliable transfer?
Devices should be within approximately 30 feet (10 metres). Wireless interference, walls, or other obstructions may reduce range. For optimal performance, bring devices closer or move to a less crowded area.
In outdoor open spaces, you may sometimes exceed this range slightly, but performance is best when devices are within line of sight.
3. Can I AirDrop to non-Apple devices?
No. AirDrop is proprietary to Apple’s ecosystem. Windows, Android, and Linux devices are not supported directly. To share files cross-platform, consider using alternative services like Snapdrop or email.
However, you can send files from a Mac to a Windows PC using third-party apps like “Flo” or “Dukto” over the local network.
4. Why doesn’t my device appear in AirDrop?
Ensure both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are enabled and that devices are unlocked. Verify AirDrop visibility settings: set to “Everyone” if devices aren’t in your contacts.
If still not visible, restart Bluetooth on both devices or reboot them. Also check that “Do Not Disturb” is disabled, as it can block incoming transfer notifications.
5. Does AirDrop work between different macOS versions?
Yes, as long as both Macs run OS X Lion (10.7) or later. AirDrop protocols remain backward compatible across versions. For best security and performance, update to the latest macOS available for your device.
6. Can I share multiple files at once?
Absolutely. In Finder or Photos, select multiple files (Command+click), right-click > Share > AirDrop > choose recipient. AirDrop queues and transfers them sequentially, ensuring integrity.
This is ideal for sharing entire photo albums or project folders—no need to zip individual files.
7. What file types are supported?
AirDrop supports virtually any file type: images (JPEG, PNG, HEIC, RAW), videos (MOV, MP4), documents (PDF, DOCX, XLSX), presentations (PPTX), audio (MP3, AAC) and more. If the recipient’s device has an app to open the file, it will handle it appropriately upon receipt.
If a file is of an unrecognized type, it will save to the Files app on iOS or to the Downloads folder on Mac for later review.
8. How do I stop receiving unwanted AirDrop requests?
On Mac: Open Finder > AirDrop > set “Allow me to be discovered by” to “No One”. On iOS: Open Control Center > tap AirDrop > select “Receiving Off”. This blocks all incoming requests until you manually re-enable.
You can still initiate transfers to others even when receiving is off.
9. What if I lose my connection mid-transfer?
If a transfer is interrupted (device goes out of range or loses power), AirDrop will attempt to reconnect and resume automatically. No need to restart from scratch—partial file segments pick up where they left off.
If the resume fails repeatedly, move devices closer, disable Personal Hotspot, and ensure both devices have sufficient battery or are charging.