For me, AirDrop seems to be an amazing feature as it helps share files across different Apple devices instantly. Anyone who knows about AirDrop knows that enabling Bluetooth and WIFI is a necessary step.
I prefer AirDrop over anything, as it lets me choose with whom I prefer sharing. In other words, I used to change the AirDrop settings between Everyone, Receiving Off, and Everyone for 10 minutes. You can take advantage of changing the settings multiple times, which is not a big deal.
For instance, if you have unknowingly set the connection to “Everyone,” people might find you in their suggestions. On the other hand, you will also get suggestions from strangers. To avoid these scenarios, it is advised to customize the AirDrop settings. In this article, we can discuss how to change the AirDrop settings on your iPhone, iPad, and Mac accordingly.
Know the Three Different AirDrop Settings
While switching between other settings, it is essential to know the meaning. AirDrop provides three different settings to customize according to our needs.
AIRDROP SETTINGS | USAGE |
---|---|
Receiving Off | This option can be used when you don’t want to see or appear on others’ devices. |
Contacts Only | This can be used when you know each other and have their number/email on your contact card. |
Everyone (Everyone for 10 Minutes) | In case you don’t have the details of others, you can opt for this option to share or receive files from strangers. |
How to Change AirDrop Settings on iPhone/iPad
You can change the AirDrop settings on iPhone or iPad from the Control Center or the Settings menu. Both methods are mentioned here, and you can choose according to your preference. After changing the AirDrop settings, you can easily AirDrop photos, videos, and files across Apple devices.
Change AirDrop Settings Using Control Center
1. Fetch and unlock your iPhone/iPad device.
2. Go to the Control Center on your iPhone/iPad device.
3. Select and hold the Network tile.
4. Tap the AirDrop icon to view the settings.
5. There will be three options: Receiving Off, Contacts Only, and Everyone for 10 Minutes.
5. Select your desired option to utilize or prohibit AirDrop across devices.
Change AirDrop Settings Using Settings Menu
1. Go to the Settings menu on your iPhone/iPad device.
2. Scroll down and choose the General option.
3. Select AirDrop to open its settings.
4. The same three choices will be shown and hit your preferred one.
You have successfully changed your AirDrop Settings on your iPhone/iPad devices.
NOTE: “Everyone for 10 Minutes” is available only on iOS 16 and later versions, whereas the previous ones will display Everyone instead.
How to Change AirDrop Settings on Mac
AirDrop settings can also be changed on Mac devices by following simple steps.
1. Turn on your Mac device.
2. Navigate to the Apple menu (Apple Logo) at your screen’s top.
3. Select the System Settings option from there.
4. Click the General menu from the sidebar.
5. Scroll down to find the AirDrop & Handoff option.
6. Choose your preferred setting to share or receive files via AirDrop.
Can I AirDrop Files Without Changing Settings?
Yes, the latest iOS 17 version helps you to AirDrop the files without altering its settings using the Proximity Sharing feature. After selecting the AirDrop option under the settings menu, you can find this on your iPhone. Enable the Bringing Devices Together option and keep your devices closer. By doing so, your sender device will automatically detect your receiver device, and you can easily get the files on your device.
Can I Change AirDrop Settings Using Siri?
No. You cannot change AirDrop Settings with Siri. Even if you summon Siri to “change the AirDrop settings” or specific AirDrop settings, it will reply, “Sorry, I can’t help with that.” Instead, say, “Hey Siri, open Settings,” and manually open the AirDrop page to alter the settings. This method isn’t recommended, but it will save you some clicks.
FAQ
Yes, you can easily alter the AirDrop settings on all iOS devices using simple steps.
The three different AirDrop settings are Receiving Off, Contacts Only, and Everyone for 10 Minutes.
Yes. If you don’t turn it off, your device is discoverable to others.
No. After the iOS 16 update, you can only turn on the AirDrop feature for 10 minutes. On the contrary, if your iPhone runs iOS 15 or below, you can turn on AirDrop permanently.
If you are stuck on changing the AirDrop settings, try restarting your device to eliminate bugs and glitches on the system.