# How to Use AirDrop on iPhone | Capterra

> If you need a faster way to share files in the workplace, consider learning how to use AirDrop on iPhone.

Source: https://www.capterra.com/resources/how-to-airdrop-on-iphone

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# How to Use AirDrop on iPhone: A Step-by-Step Guide

By Lindsey Newman

Lindsey Newman

Lindsey Newman is a writer specializing in technology and marketing. She is a frequent contributor to trusted business resources including Newegg, QuickBooks...

[See bio & all articles](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/lindsey-newman-guest-contributor/)

  

Published September 29, 2023

4 min read

Table of Contents

-   [What is AirDrop?](#what-is-airdrop)
-   [Why should you use AirDrop on iPhone?](#why-should-you-use-airdrop-on-iphone) 
-   [How to enable AirDrop](#how-to-enable-airdrop)
-   [How to AirDrop a file](#how-to-airdrop-a-file)
-   [How to accept an AirDrop](#how-to-accept-an-airdrop) 
-   [What to keep in mind when using AirDrop](#what-to-keep-in-mind-when-using-airdrop)

## Learn how to share files quickly in the workplace using iPhone's AirDrop feature.

It’s no secret that AirDrop is one of the most convenient things Apple has bestowed upon the world, but have you used it at work? 

As an iPhone-unique feature, AirDrop is a handy way to share files en masse, in moments, with everyone on your team who has an iPhone or an iPad—or even an iMac. 

The majority of people now use a personal phone for work and in 2022, more people used iPhones than Androids for the first time ever.[\[1\]](#sources) It’s not uncommon to have a team full of iPhone users. With so many iPhones in the workplace, it’s clearly a good work skill to know how to use AirDrop.

## What is AirDrop?

AirDrop is a feature on Apple devices running iOS or macOS that allows you to share files using Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. 

You can send any size file and any type of file, even things that aren’t files such as links, pinned locations, playlists, contacts, or Notes. You can share between any combination of devices running iOS or macOS, including iPhones, iPads, and Mac devices. 

## Why should you use AirDrop on iPhone? 

AirDropping is a fast and easy way to share files among Apple device users. 

You can use AirDrop as a tool for:

-   Sharing design mockups, prototypes, and creative assets
    
-   Sharing financial reports, spreadsheets, and sensitive documents
    
-   Sharing product images, pricing details, and promotional materials
    
-   Sharing diagnostic logs, configuration files, and software patches
    

## How to enable AirDrop

Before you can receive AirDrops, you have to set your device’s settings. Here’s how:

First, open “Settings” and choose “General.”

_Source[\[2\]](#sources)_

Then, tap “AirDrop,” and choose an option.

_Source[\[2\]](#sources)_

You then need to select who you want to be able to see your device and send your AirDrops:

-   **“Receiving off”**: No one will be able to send you AirDrop requests
    
-   **“Contacts only”**: Only people in your contacts app will be able to send you requests
    
-   **“Everyone”:** All nearby Apple devices can send requests to your device 
    

Note that “Everyone” is a temporary option that ends after 10 minutes and goes back to “Contacts only.” 

_Source[\[2\]](#sources)_

## How to AirDrop a file

It’s fast and easy to send files (and other items) via AirDrop. Before using AirDrop, make sure that your device and the device you want to AirDrop to both have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled. Also, make sure that you’re signed in using your Apple ID. 

Here’s how to AirDrop a file on iPhone:

Open the item you want to share via AirDrop and tap the "Share" button.

_Source[\[2\]](#sources)_

Next, select the "AirDrop" option.

_Source[\[2\]](#sources)_

Finally, tap on the AirDrop user you want to send your request to. This user must be within 30 feet of your device.

_Source [\[2\]](#sources)_

## How to accept an AirDrop 

It’s easy to accept a file-sharing request on AirDrop. Again, first make sure that your device has Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled. Also, make sure that you’re signed in using your Apple ID. 

Then, all you have to do is tap the “Accept” button when you receive an AirDrop push notification. Your iPhone will automatically download or open the item you received.

_Source[\[2\]](#sources)_

## What to keep in mind when using AirDrop

Take these tips into consideration to get the most out of your AirDrop file sharing: 

-   Make sure that devices are running compatible software versions—software that’s not updated can lead to delays with file sharing. 
    
-   Remember that AirDrop works best when devices are within a distance of around 30 feet (9 meters).
    
-   Ensure that both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are enabled on your device for AirDrop to function correctly (and remind the recipient to do the same). 
    
-   Verify that the Wi-Fi network is stable and not overloaded to avoid interruptions in sharing.
    
-   Be cautious when sharing sensitive work-related files and information via AirDrop.
    
-   Double-check the recipient's name and device to avoid accidental sharing with the wrong person.
    

Check out more step-by-step guides for optimizing your workplace functions: 

-   [How to Add a Signature in Outlook](https://www.capterra.com/resources/how-to-add-signature-in-outlook/)
    
-   [How to Add Notes to PowerPoint](https://www.capterra.com/resources/how-to-add-notes-to-powerpoint/)
    
-   [How to Search in Google Sheets](https://www.capterra.com/resources/how-to-search-in-google-sheets/)
    

## Capterra's 2026 Software Buying Trends Report

### Download our 2026 Software Buying Trends Report to see how successful software adopters avoid disappointment and how your business can, too.

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Sources

1.  [More Americans are using iPhones than Android phones for the first time ever, new report says — a major milestone for Apple](https://www.businessinsider.com/more-americans-using-apple-iphones-than-android-report-2022-9?op=1), Business Insider
    
2.  [How to use AIrDrop on iPhone and iPad](https://www.tomsguide.com/how-to/how-to-use-airdrop-on-iphone-and-ipad), Toms Guide
    

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## About the Author

[### Lindsey Newman](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/lindsey-newman-guest-contributor/)

Lindsey Newman is a writer specializing in technology and marketing. She is a frequent contributor to trusted business resources including Newegg, QuickBooks, and Capterra.

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