By Jenefey Aaron

Updated on 2025-04-22

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Backup Tips

How to Fix AirDrop Declined on iPhone/iPad/Mac 2025

By Jenefey Aaron

2025-04-22 / Transfer

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AirDrop is a convenient and fast way to share files between Apple devices, whether it’s photos, videos, documents, or even contact details. However, like any technology, it can sometimes encounter issues that prevent successful transfers. One of the most common issues that users face is the dreaded “AirDrop Declined” error.

If you're facing this problem on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac, don't worry. In this article, we’ll walk you through the reasons behind the issue and provide clear solutions to fix it.

Key Takeaways:

AirDrop Settings: Make sure AirDrop is set to receive from either "Contacts Only" or "Everyone" in Settings > General > AirDrop.
Bluetooth and Wi-Fi: Ensure both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are enabled on both devices.
Device Visibility: Check that neither device is set to "Do Not Disturb," which can prevent connection.

Part 1: Why is My AirDrop Declined?

Part 2: How to Fix AirDrop Declined

Part 3: Troubleshooting Methods to Fix AirDrop Declined

1. Restart Both Devices
2. Check AirDrop Settings
3. Check Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Connections
4. Update Software
5. Turn Off Personal Hotspot on iPhone
6. Disable Firewall on Mac

Part 4: How to Transfer Data on iPhone/iPad Easily When AirDrop Declined

Part 1: Why is My AirDrop Declined?

The crucial question is: why does airdrop say declined from the receiving device? Below are some common reasons:

Device Incompatibility: AirDrop only works with Apple devices (iPhone, iPad, Mac) running iOS 9 or later. It won’t work with Android or outdated iOS versions.
Bluetooth/Wi-Fi Disabled: AirDrop relies on Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. If either is turned off on any device, the transfer will fail.
Insufficient Storage: If the receiving device lacks free space, it can’t accept new files and will decline the transfer.
AirDrop Restrictions: AirDrop may be restricted in device settings, preventing it from appearing or receiving files.
Do Not Disturb Mode: When enabled, Do Not Disturb can block AirDrop requests, causing them to be automatically declined.
iOS Software Issues: Bugs or failed updates can disrupt AirDrop functionality, resulting in declined transfers.

Part 2: How to Fix AirDrop Declined

If AirDrop continues to decline transfers even after checking all settings and restarting your device, the issue might be related to the iOS version you are using. This is particularly common after updating to iOS 17.2 or later, where AirDrop-related settings may not carry over.

To fix this, follow the steps below:

1. Fix AirDrop Declined on iPhone/iPad

Open the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad.
Scroll down and tap General.
Under General, find and tap on AirDrop.
Look for the Bringing Devices Together option. If it is turned off, toggle the switch to On.

This setting is often disabled during an iOS update, such as when upgrading to iOS 17 or later. Enabling this feature should allow AirDrop to function properly again.

After turning on the "Bringing Devices Together" feature, try sending a file via AirDrop again to see if the issue is resolved.

If you’re still facing issues, restart both devices involved in the transfer and ensure that both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are turned on.

2. Fix AirDrop Declined on Mac

If you are experiencing the "AirDrop Declined" issue while trying to transfer files between your iPhone and Mac, it's essential to check the AirDrop settings on both devices.

Additionally, if you have an iCloud+ plan on your Mac, the Private Relay feature could be causing the problem. Disabling this feature should restore AirDrop functionality.

On your Mac, click the Apple logo in the top-left corner of the screen and select System Preferences from the dropdown menu.
In the System Preferences window, click on Apple ID, then select iCloud.
Scroll down until you find the Private Relay option. Toggle the switch next to Private Relay to the off position.
A pop-up window will appear asking you to confirm. Click Turn Off to confirm that you want to disable Private Relay.

Once you've turned off Private Relay, try AirDrop again to see if the issue is resolved. Disabling this feature should help AirDrop on your Mac start working without any further issues.

Part 3: Troubleshooting Methods to Fix AirDrop Declined

If the basic steps don’t resolve the issue, here are some additional troubleshooting methods to help you fix the “AirDrop Declined” error.

1. Restart Both Devices

A simple restart can often resolve AirDrop issues by refreshing the system and fixing any temporary glitches. After restarting your device, it’s a good idea to sign out of your iCloud account on all devices and then sign back in.

2. Check AirDrop Settings

AirDrop offers three settings: Receiving Off, Contacts Only, and Everyone.

The Receiving Off option makes your device invisible to other devices for AirDrop transfers. With Contacts Only, you can only send or receive files from people saved in your contacts list. The Everyone setting allows you to send and receive files from any nearby device.

If AirDrop continues to decline, switching both devices to the "Everyone" setting can help resolve the issue.

3. Check Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Connections

A small Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or network settings bug can often cause AirDrop to malfunction. To resolve this, you need to reset the network settings on both devices.

On your iPhone or iPad, go to Settings, then tap General, followed by Transfer or Reset [Device], and select Reset Network Settings. This will clear any potential issues with the network configuration. For your Mac, click on the Apple menu, select System Preferences, and then choose Network.

4. Update Software

To update your iPhone and fix the AirDrop declined issue, start by opening the Settings app on your device. Then, navigate to General and tap on Software Update. If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to download and install the latest version of iOS.

Updating your device may resolve any software-related issues that are causing AirDrop to decline transfers.

5. Turn Off Personal Hotspot on iPhone

If you have Personal Hotspot enabled on your iPhone, it can interfere with AirDrop and prevent the connection from being established. To resolve this issue, you need to turn off the Personal Hotspot.

Simply go to Settings, then tap Mobile Data, followed by Personal Hotspot, and toggle it off. This should allow AirDrop to function properly again.

6. Disable Firewall on Mac

If the firewall on your Mac is blocking incoming connections, it can prevent AirDrop from accepting transfers. To resolve this, you need to turn off the firewall. Once the firewall is disabled, your Mac will be able to accept incoming connections, including AirDrop transfers.

Part 4: How to Transfer Data on iPhone/iPad Easily When AirDrop Declined

If AirDrop is still giving you trouble, there’s no need to worry. You can use alternative tools like Tenorshare iCareFone to easily transfer data between iPhones, iPads, and even to a PC.

iCareFone offers a reliable and efficient solution for users who need to transfer large files, backup important data, or simply avoid the frustration of AirDrop errors. Whether you're transferring photos, music, contacts, or other files, iCareFone ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Key Advantages of Tenorshare iCareFone

Transfer Large Files: No restrictions on file size, allowing you to transfer even large videos and documents.
Quick and Easy Setup: Simple to use, and the process is quick, so you can transfer your data without delays.
Cross-Platform Compatibility: Supports both iOS devices and Windows/Mac computers, making it a versatile solution.
Supports Multiple File Types: From photos and videos to music and contacts, iCareFone handles all types of files.
Free iPhone Backup: Offers a free backup option to help you secure your data before making any transfers.

How to Transfer Files When AirDrop Declined

After the connection is established, switch to Manage option on the main interface.
On the left hand menu, select the file you want to transfer,such as photos. After that, click on the "Export" button and then select a location to save on your computer.
Wait for seconds, and now the transferring finished. You files was transferred from iPhone to your computer.

Conclusion

While AirDrop is a great tool for quickly sharing files between Apple devices, it can sometimes fail to work properly. Fortunately, by following the steps outlined above, you can resolve the “AirDrop Declined” issue on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.

If the problem persists, consider using Tenorshare iCareFone for an easy and effective alternative to transfer data across devices. Its reliable performance and support for various file types make it an excellent solution for all your file transfer needs.