Why Is AirDrop Not Working on Mac? Find Best Solutions!

Part 1: AirDrop in MacBook Not Working: What Are the Reasons?

Several factors can contribute to AirDrop malfunctioning. Gaining insight into these potential causes will empower you to address the issues effectively. Here are some common reasons why AirDrop is not showing up on Mac:

1. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Issues: AirDrop relies on both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to function in a proper way. If either of these connections is disabled or experiencing issues, AirDrop may not work.
2. Visibility Settings: AirDrop has visibility settings that allow you to choose who can send you files (Contacts Only or Everyone). If you have it set to "Contacts Only," ensure that the device you're trying to share with is in your Contacts.
3. Firewall or Security Software: Sometimes, security software or firewall settings on your MacBook can block AirDrop. Check your firewall settings and make sure they aren't preventing AirDrop connections.
4. Software Updates: Outdated macOS or iOS software can sometimes cause compatibility issues. Make sure your MacBook's OS and the software on the device you're sharing with are up to date.
5. Temporary Glitch: Sometimes, technology encounters temporary glitches. Try turning off AirDrop and then turning it back on or restarting your MacBook.

Part 2: Top Solutions To Fix AirDrop Not Working on Mac

Now that we've identified the common reasons behind MacBook AirDrop not working, now is the time for solutions. Given below are the top 6 solutions to get AirDrop back in action:

Solution 1. Check the Status of AirDrop on the Mac

Checking if AirDrop is enabled on your Mac is a crucial first step in troubleshooting AirDrop issues. You can use the following instructions to check AirDrop status on Mac:

Instructions: Click "Finder" from the Dock on your Mac home screen. Then tap "AirDrop" from the left sidebar and ensure its “Allow me to be discovered by:” setting is set to “Everyone.”

Solution 2. Verify Network Connectivity

For AirDrop to function successfully, it relies both on Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. That’s why it is essential that your Mac and the other device are connected to the same network. You can ensure that both devices have Wi-Fi enabled by accessing their Control Centers. For iOS devices, it can be accessed by swiping downward from the top right corner. The Mac's Control Center is also located at the top right corner.

Solution 3. Keep a Look at Firewall Settings on the Mac

Monitoring and adjusting your firewall settings on your Mac is a critical step in resolving AirDrop issues. This is because firewalls can sometimes block the necessary incoming network connections of AirDrop. Here's how to check and manage firewall settings to resolve AirDrop not working on Mac:

• Step 1: Click the “Apple” logo from the top left corner to select "System Settings." Here, move to the "Network" settings and choose the “Firewall” option. Now, click the “Options” button located under “Firewall.”

• Step 2: Here, you need to ensure that the “Block all incoming connections” option is toggled off. Following this, you will need to turn on the "Automatically allow built-in software to receive incoming connections” feature.

Solution 4. Restart Mac Properly

Restarting your Mac properly is a fundamental troubleshooting step. It can help resolve a variety of issues, including AirDrop not showing up on Mac. The reason is that restarting your Mac removes temporary glitches and resets all the processes. Here's how to restart your Mac correctly:

Instructions: In the top-left corner of your screen, click the “Apple” icon to open the menu. From the drop-down Apple menu, tap “Restart.” Confirm the choice that you are restarting by again clicking “Restart” in the confirmation prompt.

Solution 5. Make Sure the Mac is Updated To the Latest Version

Ensuring your Mac is running the latest version of its operating system is vital. It enhances the device's performance and makes the system more secure with the latest security patches. This helps resolve software bugs affecting the AirDrop functionality. Use the following guidelines to update your macOS to its latest version and fix the MacBook AirDrop not working problem:

Instructions: Access the “System Settings” on the Mac using the “Apple” menu. Here, click “General” from the left sidebar and tap “Software Update." Press "Update Now" to kickstart the updating process if an update is available.

Solution 6. Keep the Devices Closer to Each Other

Maintaining proximity between your Mac and the target device during an AirDrop transfer is essential for successful file exchange. It is recommended that the devices be positioned no more than 30 feet (9 meters) apart. This will help ensure the successful operation of AirDrop. Moreover, ensure that Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are activated on your Mac and the destination devices.

Bonus Tip: Finding the Best Solution to AirDrop Not Working on iPhone/iPad

When it comes to AirDrop from iPhone to Mac not working, it is possible that the problem is within your iOS device. It could be a software bug or glitch that is preventing AirDrop from functioning successfully. In this scenario, trying to resolve such issues manually can be a tedious and potentially pointless effort. That's why we recommend you go for a trusted iOS repair tool, Wondershare Dr.Fone .

Dr.Fone provides two powerful modes for iOS system repair: Standard Repair and Advanced Repair. Standard Repair mode can fix iOS system issues without data loss. On the other hand, Advanced Repair can fix even the most complex and stubborn software-related issues. With Wondershare Dr.Fone, you can fix iOS issues such as boot loop, app crashing, black screen, etc.

Key Features of Wondershare Dr.Fone

1. Using Dr.Fone, you are able to upgrade or downgrade your iOS device to the desired iOS version.
2. This software helps you upgrade your iOS device to the latest available beta versions.
3. It allows you to enter and exit Recovery Mode and DFU Mode using a single click.

Steps To Repair AirDrop Not Working on iPhone/iPad via Wondershare Dr.Fone

Here is how you can fix AirDrop from iPhone to Mac not working with the help of Wondershare Dr.Fone:

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• Step 1: Install Dr.Fone and Initiate System Repair

To initiate, first, you need to have the latest version of Wondershare Dr.Fone on your device. Once you open it, navigate toward the tool panel at the left and choose "Toolbox." Then, from the appeared options, select "System Repair" to begin with.

• Step 2: Connect iOS Device and Select iOS Repair

To start the AirDrop repair process, first, connect your system to your iOS device and click "iPhone" from the device options. From the following window, tap "iOS Repair" and select "Standard Repair." Now, it is time to put your device in "Recovery Mode" by following the guidelines on the screen.

• Step 3: Fix the iOS Recovery Mode Stuck Issue

While your iOS is one Recovery Mode, you'll see many iOS firmware versions. Click the "Download" option for any one of them in order to start downloading the iOS firmware. Finally, press the "Repair Now" button, and after repairing, click "Done" to end the process. This process will fix the issue of AirDrop from iPhone to Mac not working.

FAQs Instructing More About AirDrop Feature

What are some conditions to look out for when using AirDrop?

When using AirDrop for file transfers, several conditions and considerations are important. It's crucial to have both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi turned on. Ensuring that AirDrop visibility settings are appropriately configured is another crucial step. Furthermore, keeping the devices within reasonable proximity of each other, typically within 30 feet (9 meters), is vital for a smooth transfer.

How is the NameDrop feature different than AirDrop?

iOS 17 has introduced a host of compelling features, including the innovative NameDrop feature. This functionality functions similarly to AirDrop. It enables users to exchange contacts by simply bringing their iPhone closer to another person's iPhone.

Does AirDrop maintain the quality of data?

Yes, AirDrop is designed to maintain data quality during file transfers. When you use AirDrop to send photos, videos, documents, or other files between Apple devices, the data remains in its original quality.

Conclusion

In summary, Apple's AirDrop revolutionizes the ease of sharing files between Mac and iOS devices, yet it may experience occasional problems. In this article, we've explored common reasons behind AirDrop not working on Mac and top solutions to resolve these issues. From checking device compatibility to firewall settings, we've covered a range of fixes.

One solution that can be particularly helpful when facing more complex iOS system issues is Wondershare Dr.Fone. This comprehensive iOS system repair tool offers a wide array of features. It includes the ability to repair various iOS system problems.

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