Airdrop from iPhone Not Working Unless Finder Window Open

lawrencepaul wrote:

I used to be able to Airdrop files from my iPhone to my Mac with no issues. But now, even though my iPhone indicates the file has been 'sent' - my Mac doesn't receive anything.

The only workaround I've found is to first open Finder and select AirDrop. With the AirDrop window open, I'm then able to send files from my iPhone to my Mac.

It's strange that I now have to open the AirDrop window in Finder first. It was happening even before the latest Sonoma update.

Has anyone else run into this problem with Airdrop where your Mac won't receive the files unless you pre-open the AirDrop section?

I can not reproduce your issue.

To be proactive you can file a bug report /submit your Apple Feedback here: Product Feedback - Apple

The current stable release of Sonoma including bug fixes, security updates is macOS 14.1.1

Keep your Mac up to date - Apple Support

Keep your Mac up to date - Apple Support

The current stable release of iOS including bug fixes, security updates is iOS 17.1.1

Update your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support

FWIW, I can't reproduce the issue either. Try leroy's suggestions.