If AirDrop is not working on your iPhone, you should be able to troubleshoot and fix this problem using different methods as provided below.
AirDrop Not Working on iPhone
AirDrop makes it really easy to transfer Files, Photos and Videos between any two Apple Devices.
While, AirDrop works flawlessly most of the times, it can run into problems due to incorrect settings or network related issues.
If AirDrop option is Greyed Out on your device, you can refer to this guide: How to Fix AirDrop Greyed Out on iPhone and Missing on Mac.
If AirDrop icon is not greyed out and yet AirDrop is not working, you should be able to fix the problem using troubleshooting methods as provided below.
1. Check Device Compatibility
In order to use AirDrop, the sending device needs to be an iPhone 5 or later, iPad 4 or later or an iPod 5th generation or newer.
Similarly, the receiving device also needs to be an AirDrop compatible device (iPhone 5 or later, iPod 5th Generation).
If you are transferring files from iPhone to Mac using AirDrop, the Mac needs to be 2012 or later device, running OS X Yosemite or later version of macOS.
2. Enable Bluetooth & WiFi
AirDrop needs Bluetooth to locate nearby devices and WiFi to transfer data. Hence, make sure WiFi and Bluetooth are enabled on both sending and receiving devices.
1. Go to Settings > WiFi > Make sure WiFi is toggled ON.
2. Go to Settings > Bluetooth > Make sure Bluetooth is toggled ON.
3. Make Both Devices Discoverable
Both sending and receiving devices need to be discoverable in order transfer files using AirDrop.
1. Go to Settings > General > AirDrop.
2. On the next screen, make sure either Everyone or Contacts Only is selected.
Similarly, the receiving device needs to be discoverable.
4. Turn OFF Do Not Disturb Mode
AirDrop does not work, if Do Not Disturb Mode is enabled on sending or receiving device.
1. Go to Settings > Do Not Disturb.
2. On the next screen, disable Do Not Disturb mode by moving the toggle to OFF position.
Similarly, make sure the receiving device is not under Do Not Disturb Mode.
5. Disable Personal Hotspot
AirDrop does not work if personal Hotspot is enabled on your device.
1. Go to Settings > Cellular > Personal Hotspot.
2. On the next screen, disable Personal Hotspot by moving the toggle to OFF position.
6. Allow AirDrop from Everyone
AirDrop provides the option to Share Data with “Contacts Only” and also with “Everyone”.
Since you are experiencing problems, select the option to Share Data with Everyone and see if this helps in fixing the issue.
1. Go to Settings > General > AirDrop.
2. On the next screen, tap on Everyone.
Note: If you want to use AirDrop in “Contacts Only” mode, you need to make sure that both sending and receiving devices are signed into iCloud.
7. Restart iPhone
The problem of AirDrop Not working on iPhone might be related to a minor technical glitch, which can often be fixed by restarting the device.
1. Go to Settings > General > scroll down and tap on Shut Down.
2. On the next screen, use the slider to Turn OFF iPhone.
3. Wait for 30 seconds and Restart iPhone.
8. Reset Network Settings
Note down the Password for your WiFi Network and follow the steps below to Reset Network Settings on iPhone.
1. Go to Settings > General > tap on Reset.
2. On the next screen, tap on Reset Network Settings option.
3. On the pop-up, tap on Reset to Confirm.
After iPhone Restarts, connect to your WiFi Network by entering tour WiFi Network Password.
Check the Receiving Device
If you are still unable to get AirDrop working, make sure that the other device that you are transferring or receiving AirDrop data from is properly setup to use AirDrop.
If you are trying to AirDrop from iPhone to Mac, refer to this guide: How to Fix AirDrop Not Working on Mac.