How to AirDrop From Your iPhone or iPad to Your Mac

By Leanne Hays Updated 01/12/2022

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What is AirDrop, and how does it work? AirDrop uses Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to transfer files back and forth between Apple devices within range. You can use AirDrop to transfer from your iPhone or iPad to your Mac; it's faster and easier than using email! Here's how to AirDrop content from your iPhone to your Mac.

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How to Turn On AirDrop & Use AirDrop to Share Content between an iPhone or iPad & Mac

We've shown you how to turn on AirDrop and how to receive AirDrop files on your iPhone. For more convenient ways to use your AirDrop, check out our free Tip of the Day. Now, let's go over how to AirDrop files from your iPhone to your Mac. To do this, you'll need to be sure that Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are turned on for both your iPhone or iPad and computer, and that neither device has a Personal Hotspot turned on. AirDrop also requires a 2012 or later Mac updated to at least macOS Yosemite to transfer files between your computer and iPhone or iPad. Let's begin.

Open the app that has the file you'd like to share with your Mac.
Tap the file, then tap the Share icon (a box with an up arrow through it).

Tap AirDrop. Once you've AirDropped to this computer, your iPhone may offer the option to tap an icon of it with an AirDrop icon, so you'll be able to skip step four in the future.
Tap your computer’s name.

You'll hear a ping and see a notification on your Mac's screen; click Open to see the file you just AirDropped.
You can also find the file by opening the Finder and clicking Downloads.

Pro Tip: There is no size limit of files that you can send using AirDrop. However, there are better and faster methods to send large files.

Now that you know how to transfer files with ease using AirDrop, you may also want to learn some Mac organizaion tips to keep your desktop files tidy. AirDrop not working? Check out these AirDrop troubleshooting tips. Next, learn how to change your name on AirDrop!

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Topics

How-To

AirDrop

Author Details

Leanne Hays

Leanne Hays has over a dozen years of experience writing for online publications. As a Feature Writer for iPhone Life, she has authored hundreds of how-to, Apple news, and gear review articles, as well as a comprehensive Photos App guide. Leanne holds degrees in education and science and loves troubleshooting and repair. This combination makes her a perfect fit as manager of our Ask an Expert service, which helps iPhone Life Insiders with Apple hardware and software issues.
In off-work hours, Leanne is a mother of two, homesteader, audiobook fanatic, musician, and learning enthusiast.

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