How to AirDrop from iPhone to Mac - Simple Steps, Fixes & Alternativess

Clara Prescott Published on November 07, 2025Transfer Data3-min reading

How to AirDrop from iPhone to Mac without using cables or complicated software? Many Apple users ask this when they want to move photos, videos, or documents quickly between devices. AirDrop is a built-in wireless transfer tool of Apple that works through Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. In this guide, you will learn how to send files from iPhone to Mac, enable AirDrop on Mac, and fix common issues.

Part 1. How to AirDrop from iPhone to Mac

AirDrop allows you to transfer files, pictures, and videos from your iPhone to your Mac without an internet connection or any wires. This transfer technique works without any complex settings. It is safe, quick, and your files automatically go to the Downloads folder for immediate access.

Part 2. How to Find and Turn On AirDrop on Your Mac

To use AirDrop, it must be enabled on your Mac so that it is visible to nearby devices. It establishes a direct connection using both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. These connect your iPhone to the Mac for transfer.

Part 3. Can I AirDrop Files from Mac to Other Devices?

You can also send files from your Mac to an iPhone, iPad, or another Mac using AirDrop. This enables you to transfer documents, images, or videos wirelessly and instantly between your devices, with no need for cables, external storage, or even needing to unlock Mac without password interruption.

Part 4. Best AirDrop Alternative to Transfer Data on Mac

AirDrop is convenient in many situations, but when it comes to transferring large files, working on multiple platforms, or managing complex tasks, it may not be the ideal solution. Here, imyPass iPhone Transfer provides greater flexibility. No iTunes or iCloud is required. iPhone data can be transferred, synced, and managed on both Windows and Mac computers. It handles almost all data types and provides fast transfers, along with powerful management features, to help keep your data organized and secure.

To get started, visit the official imyPass website and download the iPhone Transfer for Mac version. Install it on your system. After the installation is completed, launch the application.

Connect the iPhone, iPad, or iPod to the Mac using a USB cable. The software will identify your device and present the data categories available on your device.

From the main page of the software, select the data type you would like to transfer, such as Photos, Music, Contacts, or others. You can review the files to guarantee you have chosen the correct ones before moving them.

To transfer the files to your Mac, click the Export to Mac button. To transfer data to your iPhone, click the Add button to upload files from your Mac to your iPhone.

Once the transfer is complete, you can utilize the organizational features to sort your photos into albums, edit song details, or merge duplicate contacts, all directly from your Mac.

Part 5. Why is AirDrop on Mac Not Working & How to Fix

Transferring files from iPhone to Mac is seamless, but there are occasions when your Mac does not show up or the transfer gets stuck. Improper settings, outdated software, or an unstable connection can cause this issue. Below are the most common reasons for these problems, how to retrieve AirDrop files, and the steps to fix them.

Common Reasons AirDrop Does not Work on Mac:

• Bluetooth or Wi-Fi is turned off.

• Devices are too far apart (more than 30 feet).

• Drop Visibility is set to Receiving Off.

• Your iPhone has Personal Hotspot active.

• Your iOS or macOS software is out of date.

• Network and firewall restrictions.

How to Fix AirDrop on Mac

Fix 1. Check Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

Ensure that Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are enabled on both your iPhone and Mac. AirDrop will not function if either is turned off.

Fix 2. Change AirDrop Visibility

• On iPhone: Settings > General > AirDrop > choose Contacts Only or Everyone.

• On Mac: Finder > AirDrop and set the same option.

Fix 3. Keep Devices Close

Your iPhone and Mac need to be within 30 feet (9 meters) for a reliable connection.

Fix 4. Disable Personal Hotspot

Go to Settings > Personal Hotspot and turn it off on your iPhone. It can prevent AirDrop from working.

Fix 5. Restart Devices

This will clear temporary glitches. Restart both your iPhone and your Mac.

Fix 6. Update Software

Update to the latest iOS and macOS versions to get the new AirDrop improvements that Apple includes with every update.

Fix 7. Check Firewall Settings

On your Mac, go to System Settings > Network > Firewall. Ensure that Block All Incoming Connections is turned off.

Conclusion

In this article, the process of AirDropping from a Mac to an iPhone and other devices is clearly explained, along with enabling AirDrop, transferring files, and troubleshooting issues that may arise when it fails to work. You also discovered imyPass iPhone Transfer as the best alternative, making file sharing between iPhone and Mac smooth, flexible, and reliable.