7 Quick Fixes for AirDrop Declined on iPhone/iPad

"I have two iPhones and both worked fine when I airdropped from one to the other. I updated both to iOS 17 and now one phone declines airdrop to the other."

— Apple Community User

AirDrop is a seamless way to share files between Apple devices, but encountering a "declined" error can disrupt productivity. This guide explores why AirDrop declines requests and provides actionable solutions, plus alternative transfer methods when AirDrop fails.

Why Does AirDrop Keep Declining?

AirDrop may decline transfers due to:

• Disabled Bluetooth/Wi-Fi: Both must be active for AirDrop to function.
• Incorrect Receiving Settings: Set to "Receiving Off" or "Contacts Only" when sender isn’t a contact.
• Outdated iOS: Older iOS versions may lack compatibility.
• Distance/Obstacles: Devices must be within 30 feet (10 meters) without physical barriers.
• Manual Decline: Recipient may manually reject the transfer.

7 Solutions to Fix AirDrop Declined

1. Enable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

• Swipe down to open Control Center and toggle on Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
• Alternatively, enable them via Settings > Wi-Fi/Bluetooth.

2. Adjust AirDrop Receiving Settings

1. Go to Settings > AirDrop.
2. Select Everyone to allow transfers from any device.

3. Ensure Devices Are Close

• Keep devices within 30 feet and free of obstructions (walls, electronic interference).

4. Update iOS

1. Navigate to Settings > General > Software Update.
2. Download and install the latest iOS version.

5. Reset Network Settings

1. Open Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
2. Tap Reset Network Settings (note: erases saved Wi-Fi passwords).

6. Disable Firewall (Mac Only)

• For Mac users receiving files:

  1. Open System Settings > Network.
  2. Turn off Firewall.

7. Restart Both Devices

• Power off and restart the sending and receiving devices to clear temporary glitches.

Alternatives When AirDrop Fails

Option 1: Coolmuster Mobile Transfer

👉 Transfer files between iPhones effortlessly

• Supports contacts, notes, calendars, and more without Wi-Fi.
• Batch transfers and iOS 17/18 compatibility.

Steps:

1. Connect both iPhones to a computer via USB.
2. Select files and click Start Copy.

Option 2: Coolmuster iOS Assistant

👉 Seamless iPhone-to-Mac transfers

• Export/import photos, videos, messages, and backups.

Steps:

1. Link iPhone to Mac.
2. Click Export (to Mac) or Import (to iPhone).

FAQs

Q: Why does AirDrop say "Declined" even when settings are correct?
A: Check for iOS updates, firewall blocks (Mac), or manual declines by the recipient.

Q: Can I AirDrop without Wi-Fi?
A: No—Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are essential for AirDrop’s peer-to-peer connection.

Q: How do I fix AirDrop "Waiting" status?
A: Restart devices, ensure proximity, and disable VPN/personal hotspot.

Q: Does AirDrop reduce file quality?
A: No—files transfer in original quality.

Final Tips

• Always verify AirDrop settings and device compatibility.
• For persistent issues, use tools like Mobile Transfer or iOS Assistant for reliable transfers.

Need more help? Explore our detailed AirDrop troubleshooting guide or leave a comment below!