Turning on AirDrop on an iPhone running iOS 17 is a straightforward process. By going into the settings, adjusting your AirDrop preferences, and choosing who you want to share files with, you can easily share photos, videos, and other files with nearby Apple devices. Let’s dive into how to do this step by step.
You can also check out this video about how to turn on AirDrop on an iPhone for more on this topic.
Step by Step Tutorial: Turning on AirDrop on iPhone
Before starting, make sure that both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are enabled on your iPhone, as AirDrop uses these technologies to function.
Step 1: Open the Control Center
Swipe down from the top-right corner of your iPhone screen to open the Control Center.
The Control Center is the hub for quick settings and controls. By accessing it, you can turn on various features including AirDrop without navigating through the Settings app.
Step 2: Press and hold the network settings card
The network settings card is in the top-left corner of the Control Center and includes icons for airplane mode, cellular data, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth.
By pressing and holding the network settings card, you expand the card to reveal additional options, including the AirDrop button, which is what we need to access to turn on AirDrop.
Step 3: Tap on AirDrop
After expanding the network settings card, the AirDrop button will be visible. Tap on it to adjust your AirDrop settings.
You will have three options to choose from: Receiving Off, Contacts Only, and Everyone. ‘Receiving Off’ turns off AirDrop, ‘Contacts Only’ allows only your contacts to send you files, and ‘Everyone’ allows any nearby Apple device to send you files.
Step 4: Choose who you want to receive from
Select ‘Contacts Only’ or ‘Everyone’ based on your preference.
If you’re concerned about privacy or unwanted files, ‘Contacts Only’ is the safest option. However, if you’re in a setting where you need to receive files from multiple people, like a classroom or a workplace, ‘Everyone’ might be more convenient.
After completing these steps, AirDrop is now turned on, and you are ready to receive files from other Apple devices. Files sent to you via AirDrop will appear in the corresponding app on your iPhone. For instance, photos will show up in the Photos app, and links will open in Safari.
Tips for Using AirDrop on iPhone
- Keep your device visible to others only when necessary to avoid unwanted file transfers.
- Ensure that the person you’re sending to or receiving from is nearby, as AirDrop works over Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
- Check if the recipient’s device is unlocked and the screen is on to ensure a successful transfer.
- For quicker access to AirDrop settings, consider adding an AirDrop button to the Control Center through the Settings app.
- If AirDrop is not working, try toggling Wi-Fi and Bluetooth off and on again, or restart your iPhone.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if AirDrop is working?
If AirDrop is enabled, you should see the AirDrop icon in your Control Center. Additionally, when you attempt to share a file, your iPhone will search for nearby devices that are ready to receive.
Can I AirDrop to a non-Apple device?
No, AirDrop is exclusive to Apple devices. It does not work with devices that run on other operating systems like Windows or Android.
Why can’t I see the other device on AirDrop?
Make sure both devices have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled, and that the receiving device is not set to ‘Receiving Off.’ Also, ensure the devices are within 30 feet of each other.
Can I cancel an AirDrop transfer?
Yes, simply tap on the ‘Cancel’ button on the progress circle during the file transfer.
Is AirDrop secure?
AirDrop uses encryption to protect your files during transfer. However, be cautious when accepting files from unknown senders.
Summary
- Open the Control Center.
- Press and hold the network settings card.
- Tap on AirDrop.
- Choose ‘Contacts Only’ or ‘Everyone.’
Conclusion
AirDrop is a convenient feature for iPhone users, allowing for easy file sharing without the need for cables or external drives. While it’s a robust tool, understanding how to configure it properly can save you from potential headaches, such as receiving unwanted files or not being able to connect to other devices. Always remember to turn off AirDrop when you’re done using it to maintain your privacy. With the simple steps outlined above, you’re now equipped to use AirDrop on your iPhone running iOS 17 confidently. Happy sharing!
Matthew Burleigh has been a freelance writer since the early 2000s. You can find his writing all over the Web, where his content has collectively been read millions of times.
Matthew received his Master’s degree in Computer Science, then spent over a decade as an IT consultant for small businesses before focusing on writing and website creation.
The topics he covers for MasterYourTech.com include iPhones, Microsoft Office, and Google Apps.
You can read his full bio here.