Why is AirDrop not showing nearby devices for photo sharing between iPhone and Mac?

I try to send something from my phone to my macbook, both airdrop is one but for some technical issues it's doesn't show any airdrop near by. Can I get any assistance on that please..!?


[Re-Titled by Moderator]



MacBook Pro 15″, macOS 12.7

Posted on May 15, 2025 3:15 PM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on May 16, 2025 9:03 PM

Hi,

If AirDrop isn't showing nearby devices for photo sharing between an iPhone and Mac, several factors could be at play. Ensure both devices are within 30 feet of each other, have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled, and are on the latest compatible operating systems. Additionally, check AirDrop settings on both devices to confirm they are set to "Everyone" or "Contacts Only" and that you are signed into iCloud with the same Apple ID on both devices. 


Here's a more detailed breakdown:


1. Device Requirements and Proximity:

  • Both devices within 30 feet: AirDrop works best when devices are close.
  • Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled: Both technologies are required for AirDrop to function.
  • Mac Compatibility: The Mac must be introduced in 2012 or later (excluding the 2012 Mac Pro) and running OS X Yosemite or later.
  • iPhone/iPad/iPod touch Compatibility: The iPhone/iPad/iPod touch must be running iOS 7 or later, with Personal Hotspot disabled. 


2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

May 16, 2025 9:03 PM in response to agerson99

Hi,

If AirDrop isn't showing nearby devices for photo sharing between an iPhone and Mac, several factors could be at play. Ensure both devices are within 30 feet of each other, have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled, and are on the latest compatible operating systems. Additionally, check AirDrop settings on both devices to confirm they are set to "Everyone" or "Contacts Only" and that you are signed into iCloud with the same Apple ID on both devices. 


Here's a more detailed breakdown:


1. Device Requirements and Proximity:

  • Both devices within 30 feet: AirDrop works best when devices are close.
  • Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled: Both technologies are required for AirDrop to function.
  • Mac Compatibility: The Mac must be introduced in 2012 or later (excluding the 2012 Mac Pro) and running OS X Yosemite or later.
  • iPhone/iPad/iPod touch Compatibility: The iPhone/iPad/iPod touch must be running iOS 7 or later, with Personal Hotspot disabled. 


May 16, 2025 8:55 PM in response to agerson99

agerson99 wrote:

I try to send something from my phone to my macbook, both airdrop is one but for some technical issues it's doesn't show any airdrop near by. Can I get any assistance on that please..!?

[Re-Titled by Moderator]




Verify your software is up to date…

The current stable release of Sequoia including bug fixes, security updates is macOS 15.5 - I would start there.

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 18.5

Update your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support



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Why is AirDrop not showing nearby devices for photo sharing between iPhone and Mac?

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