Where Is AirDrop on MacBook, and How to Use It?

AirDrop is a convenient feature that most MacBook users on a regular basis, as it allows you to share files between all of your Apple devices completely wirelessly.

This means you can share photos or files from your iPhone to your Macbook within just a few minutes. But where is AirDrop located on a Mac?

Locating AirDrop in Finder

To find AirDrop on your MacBook, the first stop is the Finder. Here’s how to do it:

1. Click on the Finder icon in your Dock. It’s the smiling face icon, typically located at the bottom of your screen.

finder-2

2. In the Finder window, look at the sidebar on the left. If the sidebar isn’t visible, click on “View” in the top menu bar and select “Show Sidebar.”

3. In the sidebar, you’ll see several options like Applications, Desktop, Documents, and importantly, AirDrop. Click on “AirDrop.”

airdrop-in-finder

4. The AirDrop window will open, showing nearby devices available for file sharing.

Turning On AirDrop from the Menu Bar

Another way to access AirDrop is through the menu bar at the top of your screen. Follow these steps:

1. Click on the Control Center in the menu bar at the top of your screen.

airdrop-control-center

2. From the Control Center panel, select “AirDrop.”

3. You’ll then be able to toggle Airdrop on and off on your Macbook, as well as allow anyone to Airdrop files to you.

How to Share Files Using AirDrop

Now that you’ve located AirDrop, let’s use it to share a file:

1. Open the Finder as above, and scroll down to the item that you want to share via Airdrop.

2. When you right click on the file, you’ll bring up the Share option, which allows you to share files with other Apple devices. Select Share.

share-airdrop

3. You’ll then get the opton to select Airdrop from a list of other sharing methods.

select-airdrop

4. Finally, you’ll see all of the devices that are within range for Airdrop to work – make sure that the other device has Airdrop enabled.

If AirDrop Isn’t Available

If you’re having trouble seeing other devices in AirDrop, or if your device isn’t visible to others, check the following settings:

1. Ensure that both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are turned on, as well as enabling Airdrop on your devices.

2. Make sure that the devices are within 30 feet (9 meters) of each other, as this is the maximum distance allowed to Airdrop files.

3. Check your AirDrop settings by clicking “AirDrop” in the Finder window.

airdrop-share-everyone

Choose “Allow me to be discovered by” and select “Everyone,” “Contacts Only,” or “No One.”

This is usually a quick solution to the issue. If you’re still having issues, check how to fix Airdrop not working for more solutions.

What is AirDrop on Your MacBook?

As mentioned, AirDrop is Apple’s method for transferring files wirelessly between iOS and macOS devices.

It uses Bluetooth to create a peer-to-peer Wi-Fi network between the devices, ensuring fast and secure file transfers.

This means you can send photos, videos, documents, and even websites from your MacBook to another Apple device effortlessly.

Conclusion

AirDrop is an extremely useful tool for MacBook users, as it allows us to share files in a simple, fast, and secure way. By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to AirDrop all kinds of files with your friends and colleagues.

Author

Ed

Full-time writer, Apple fanboy and macOS supremacist. Currently running: 16" Macbook Pro w/ 64GB RAM & M1 Max. Already wants to upgrade to the M3 😫😭

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