AirDrop not working? Quick fixes, and another way to send
AirDrop often fails without saying why: the other device doesn't show up, or the transfer hangs on "Waiting". Here are the usual fixes, and a way to send the files right now, even to devices that aren't Apple.
Quick fixes for AirDrop
- Turn Wi‑Fi and Bluetooth on for both devices, and Personal Hotspot off.
- Set AirDrop to Everyone for 10 Minutes on the receiving device.
- Unlock both devices and keep them within a few metres of each other.
- Turn off Focus or Do Not Disturb, and VPN apps, then try again.
- Still nothing? Restart both devices.
Send the files anyway, in the browser
- Open omnibeam.site on both devices (Safari is fine).
- On the same Wi‑Fi they appear by themselves; otherwise pair them with a 6‑digit code.
- Tap the other device, pick photos, videos or files, and accept on the other side.
It works between iPhone, iPad, Mac, Windows and Android, keeps photos and videos in full quality, and doesn't need Bluetooth. More in OmniBeam vs AirDrop.