Apple has revised its AirDrop settings with the release of iOS 16.2 today, scrapping the previous “Everyone” option that allowed users to constantly receive new incoming AirDrop requests from anyone, and replacing it with an“Everyone for 10 Minutes” settingwhich aims to tackle spam by limiting the duration that users are able to AirDrop to devices that are not saved in their Contacts.
With the “Everyone for 10 Minutes” setting enabled, users will receive AirDrop requests from any device for up to 10 minutes. After 10 minutes has been reached, AirDrop will automatically default to the “Contacts Only” option, with users having to manually switch back to “Everyone for 10 Minutes” if they wish to continue to receive AirDrop requests from devices not saved as a contact for a further 10 minutes.
AirDrop now offers three settings for users: Receiving Off, Contacts Only, and Everyone for 10 Minutes. There is no longer a way to permanently leave AirDrop on. Users must open the Settings app and change their AirDrop settings manually to receive AirDrop requests from devices that are not saved in their Contacts.
Originally, Apple intended to release the new AirDrop setting only to users in China, reportedly following a government request in the country after anti-government material was spread by protesters using AirDrop in crowded spaces, although following criticism, Apple has decided to launch the feature to all users, regardless of their country or region.
FAQs
With the launch of iOS 16.2, Apple is expanding an AirDrop limitation that was introduced in China with the launch of iOS 16.1. 1. Going forward, AirDrop will be primarily restricted to Contacts Only, and the option to turn on AirDrop for "Everyone" will be limited to 10 minutes.
Why does my AirDrop say everyone for 10 minutes? ›
Everyone: All nearby Apple devices using AirDrop can see your device. When you set your AirDrop option to Everyone for 10 Minutes in iOS 16.2 or later, your option reverts to Contacts Only3 after 10 minutes.
Why did Apple change the AirDrop settings? ›
Apple changes AirDrop security for all with iOS 16.2 after backlash over restrictions in China. Apple is clamping down on AirDrop privacy settings for all its users with the iOS 16.2 update, after backlash its recent restrictions were impacting the feature's use in China.
Is AirDrop set to everyone by default? ›
AirDrop is set to share with Contacts Only by default. Users can also choose to use AirDrop to share with everyone, or turn off the feature entirely. Organisations can restrict the use of AirDrop for devices or apps being managed by using a mobile device management (MDM) solution.
Why does my AirDrop have a time limit? ›
With the launch of iOS 16.2, Apple is expanding an AirDrop limitation that was introduced in China with the launch of iOS 16.1. 1. Going forward, AirDrop will be primarily restricted to Contacts Only, and the option to turn on AirDrop for "Everyone" will be limited to 10 minutes.
Why is Apple limiting AirDrop? ›
It is a new security feature introduced in iOS16. There were allegedly too many problems with people sitting in public and finding random people on AirDrop they sent "all kinds of fun" to. Then after 10 minutes, disables "Public AirDrop" so you only receive media from people you know until you actively open it again.
Did Apple remove AirDrop for everyone? ›
Apple is rolling out a change in iOS 16.2 that REMOVES the ability to leave AirDrop open to “everyone” and instead only allows for it to be used for 10 minute periods 😭📱🤯 I REALLY hope they can at least make this an option because I use the “everyone” option when at events or sharing photos with people quickly and ...
Why you should turn AirDrop off? ›
Generally, AirDrop is a safe and fast way to transfer files between you and people you trust (you should never accept a suspicious AirDrop request). Still, to ensure you don't accidentally install a unwanted file onto your iOS device, it's a good idea to keep AirDrop turned off unless you need it.
How do I fix AirDrop settings? ›
AirDrop not working? Here's how to fix it
- Check to see if AirDrop is supported. ...
- Try restarting your device. ...
- Make sure Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are turned on. ...
- Make sure your devices are close together. ...
- Manage your AirDrop settings.
- Turn off your VPN.
- Check your device's battery power. ...
- Make sure you have enough storage space.
How do I change the AirDrop setting to everyone? ›
Log in . To change your AirDrop settings on an iPhone or iPad, open the General section of the Settings app and tap AirDrop. You can set your AirDrop to be visible to everyone, just your contacts, or no one.
Press and hold the WiFi button until 6 further options appear on-screen. Tap the AirDrop icon. Once there, tap Contacts Only or Everyone to turn on AirDrop.
Did they change AirDrop? ›
iOS 17 AirDrop changes: NameDrop
You'll have some control over what contact info gets shared via NameDrop, as the feature will let you choose specific numbers or addresses. You can also opt to share your contact data or just receive contact info from the other person.
Is it safe to have AirDrop on for everyone? ›
The safety of AirDrop depends mainly on user awareness and implementing good practices. While inherent risks exist, as with any technology, the ability to control discoverability, combined with the robust encryption provided, makes AirDrop a generally secure option for file sharing.
Does AirDrop go to everyone around you? ›
If you're not in their Contacts, have them set their AirDrop receiving setting to Everyone in order to receive the file. If you're in their Contacts and they set AirDrop to receive from Contacts Only, they need to have your Apple ID email address or phone number included in your contact card for AirDrop to work.
Why does AirDrop say waiting for so long? ›
Some of the common causes of AirDrop stuck on waiting are: Both devices are not close enough to each other to let AirDrop connect them. Your iPhone or Mac is not fulfilling the AirDrop minimum requirements. Wi-Fi and/or Bluetooth is turned off on any device or a personal hotspot is enabled.
What is the maximum length of AirDrop? ›
There is no limit to file size, and files transfer as fast as their individual hardware allows. Since you're not transferring files over a network, you don't share bandwidth with anyone.
Is there a limit on AirDrop at once? ›
Can You AirDrop More Than 25 Photos at Once. Apple never specifies a limit on the number of photos you can transfer via AirDrop. You can transfer more than 25 photos using AirDrop at the same time. Theoretically, you can AirDrop as many photos as you like from one device to another.