How to Check AirDrop Status
Checking your AirDrop status helps ensure your device is ready to send and receive files. Here's how to verify it on different devices:
On iPhone or iPad
- Open Control Center by swiping down from the upper-right corner (or up from the bottom on older models)
- Press and hold the network settings card in the top-left corner
- Look for the AirDrop icon:
- If the icon is blue, AirDrop is active
- If gray, it's turned off
- The text below the icon shows your current visibility setting
On Mac
- Open Finder from your Dock
- Select AirDrop from the sidebar
- At the bottom of the window, you'll see your current AirDrop status:
- "Allow me to be discovered by: [setting]" shows your visibility
- If the window shows nearby devices, your AirDrop is working
- You can also check the AirDrop icon in your Finder sidebar (if visible)
Troubleshooting AirDrop Status
If you can't see AirDrop options:
- Check device compatibility - AirDrop requires specific hardware versions
- Verify Bluetooth and Wi-Fi - Both must be enabled (doesn't need internet)
- Restart services - Turn AirDrop off/on or toggle airplane mode
- Update software - Ensure your device runs the latest iOS/macOS version
Optimal AirDrop Settings
For Maximum Visibility
Set to "Everyone" when:
- Sharing with new contacts
- In public sharing situations
- Troubleshooting connection issues
For Privacy
Set to "Contacts Only" when:
- In public places
- Want to avoid unwanted sharing requests
- Using your device in professional settings
Quick Status Check
- Bluetooth On
- Wi-Fi On
- Visibility Contacts Only
- Device Discoverable Yes
Device Compatibility
AirDrop works between:
- iPhone 5 or later
- iPad (4th gen+) and iPad mini
- iPad Pro all models
- Mac (2012 or later, except 2012 Mac Pro)
Transfer Status
When sending files:
Progress bar appears during file transfer showing status