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AirDrop Errors — Not Discovering Devices, Transfer Failures, and Troubleshooting

Informationalnetwork

Overview

Fix AirDrop errors including devices not appearing, transfer failures, 'AirDrop could not save the file', and troubleshooting discovery between Mac, iPhone, and iPad.

Key Details

  • AirDrop uses both Bluetooth LE for discovery and peer-to-peer WiFi for data transfer
  • Both devices must have WiFi and Bluetooth enabled (they do not need to be on the same WiFi network)
  • AirDrop discovery modes: No One, Contacts Only, Everyone (for 10 minutes on iOS 17+)
  • Macs older than 2012 may not support AirDrop to iOS devices (requires Bluetooth LE)
  • Firewall Stealth Mode can block AirDrop discovery

Common Causes

  • AirDrop set to 'Contacts Only' but the other person is not in your contacts
  • Bluetooth or WiFi disabled on either device
  • Personal Hotspot enabled (disables peer-to-peer WiFi needed for AirDrop)
  • Firewall blocking incoming connections or Stealth Mode enabled
  • Devices too far apart — AirDrop works best within 30 feet (9 meters)

Steps

  1. 1Set AirDrop to 'Everyone': Finder > AirDrop > set to 'Everyone' (or System Settings > General > AirDrop)
  2. 2Ensure both WiFi and Bluetooth are enabled on both devices
  3. 3Disable Personal Hotspot on the sending and receiving devices
  4. 4Bring devices within 30 feet of each other with no obstructions
  5. 5Disable firewall Stealth Mode: System Settings > Network > Firewall > Options > disable Stealth Mode
  6. 6If still failing: restart Bluetooth (toggle off/on) and restart WiFi on both devices

Tags

airdroptransferbluetoothwififile-sharing

Related Items

mac-airdrop-not-working

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Frequently Asked Questions

Ensure the Mac has Bluetooth LE (2012 or newer). Open Finder AirDrop window to make the Mac discoverable. Check the Mac's AirDrop setting is 'Everyone' temporarily.