Iphone Not Airdropping To Ipad

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Iphone Not Airdropping To Ipad

iPhone Not AirDropping to iPad? Here’s How to Fix ItKeywords iPhone not AirDropping to iPad, AirDrop not working, AirDrop troubleshooting iOS, iPhone iPad file sharing issue, fix AirDrop connection problemsAirDrop is one of the most convenient features Apple offers, making it easy to wirelessly share files between devices. But when your iPhone isn’t AirDropping to your iPad, it can be frustrating especially when you’re trying to transfer something quickly. Thankfully, the problem is usually simple to fix.

This topic explains the most common reasons why AirDrop might not be working between your iPhone and iPad and how to solve the issue using easy, practical steps.

What Is AirDrop and How Does It Work?

AirDrop allows Apple devices to share files over Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. It works best when both devices are close to each other and have compatible settings enabled. You can use AirDrop to send photos, videos, documents, notes, and even website links.

If either your iPhone or iPad has the wrong settings or a connectivity issue, the file transfer won’t go through.

Common Reasons AirDrop Doesn’t Work

Before diving into solutions, it helps to know what might be causing the issue

  • Bluetooth or Wi-Fi is turned off on one or both devices

  • AirDrop visibility is restricted

  • Devices are too far apart

  • A system glitch or outdated software

  • AirDrop is set to receive from ‘Contacts Only’ but the contact isn’t saved

  • Personal Hotspot is enabled

Now, let’s go through the steps to get AirDrop working again.

Step 1 Turn Bluetooth and Wi-Fi On

AirDrop requires both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to function. If either is disabled, the devices can’t discover each other.

  • Swipe down from the top-right of the screen (or up from the bottom on older models) to open Control Center.

  • Make sure both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are enabled on both the iPhone and iPad.

Avoid using Airplane Mode, as it turns off wireless communication.

Step 2 Check AirDrop Settings

AirDrop must be set to receive from the right sources.

  • Open Settings > General > AirDrop

  • Choose either Contacts Only or Everyone for 10 Minutes

If you select ‘Contacts Only,’ ensure both devices are signed into iCloud and have each other saved as contacts. If in doubt, choose ‘Everyone for 10 Minutes’ to simplify testing.

Step 3 Bring Devices Closer Together

AirDrop works best when devices are within a few feet of each other. Move your iPhone and iPad closer together and try the transfer again.

Avoid thick walls or interference between the devices.

Step 4 Turn Off Personal Hotspot

If your iPhone is using its Personal Hotspot, AirDrop may not work properly because Wi-Fi is being used for data sharing.

  • Go to Settings > Cellular > Personal Hotspot

  • Turn it off before using AirDrop

Afterward, retry the transfer.

Step 5 Restart Both Devices

Sometimes a simple restart can resolve temporary glitches in connectivity.

  • Hold the Power button and either Volume button (on Face ID models) or just the Power button (on Touch ID models)

  • Slide to power off

  • Wait a few seconds, then power the devices back on

Now check if AirDrop works.

Step 6 Sign In to iCloud on Both Devices

If you’re using Contacts Only as your AirDrop setting, both devices must be signed into iCloud.

  • Go to Settings > [Your Name]

  • If not signed in, log in using your Apple ID

Also, make sure both devices are using the same Apple ID if you’re transferring files between your own iPhone and iPad.

Step 7 Disable Screen Time Restrictions

AirDrop might be restricted by Screen Time settings, especially if the device is managed by parental controls or a company profile.

  • Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions

  • Tap Allowed Apps and make sure AirDrop is enabled

If it’s turned off, toggle it back on.

Step 8 Update iOS on Both Devices

Older versions of iOS or iPadOS may have bugs that affect AirDrop.

  • Go to Settings > General > Software Update

  • If an update is available, download and install it

Updating ensures compatibility between devices and can resolve known AirDrop bugs.

Step 9 Reset Network Settings (If Needed)

If none of the above steps work, try resetting network settings. This won’t delete your files but will remove saved Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth devices.

  • Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone

  • Tap Reset > Reset Network Settings

  • Enter your passcode if prompted

After the reset, reconnect to Wi-Fi and try AirDrop again.

Step 10 Use Alternative Methods as a Backup

If AirDrop still won’t work, you can try other Apple-approved methods to transfer files

  • iCloud Drive Upload from one device, download on the other

  • Messages or Mail Send smaller files through messaging or email

  • Third-party apps Apps like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive can be used as temporary solutions

These are not as instant as AirDrop but can serve as effective alternatives when needed.

Tips to Keep AirDrop Working Smoothly

  • Always keep your device updated

  • Avoid using AirDrop in crowded areas with many Apple devices

  • Don’t forget to turn AirDrop visibility back to Contacts Only after using ‘Everyone’

  • Clear large or failed transfers from your device to avoid temporary bugs

When your iPhone isn’t AirDropping to your iPad, it can interrupt your workflow. Fortunately, the solution is usually easy ranging from checking your settings to making sure both devices are up to date and nearby.

By following the steps above, you should be able to get AirDrop working again in just a few minutes. Whether you’re sharing photos, documents, or videos, a smooth AirDrop experience makes your Apple ecosystem more powerful and convenient.