The iPhone does need to be unlocked for AirDrop to work. Let me explain why.
AirDrop is a feature on Apple devices that allows you to quickly and wirelessly share files, photos, and other content with nearby devices. It uses a combination of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to establish a direct connection between the devices.
In order for AirDrop to work, both devices need to have their screens on and be unlocked at the home screen. This means that if either device is locked or has the screen turned off, they will not be detectable by AirDrop.
Now, you might be wondering why the device needs to be unlocked for AirDrop to function properly. Well, the reason is security. By requiring the devices to be unlocked, Apple ensures that only authorized users can send and receive content via AirDrop.
Think about it this way: if AirDrop worked when the device was locked, anyone with a nearby iPhone could potentially send you unwanted or even malicious content without your consent. By requiring the device to be unlocked, Apple adds an extra layer of protection and ensures that you have control over the content you receive.
Of course, it’s worth noting that even if your device is unlocked, you still have control over what content you accept via AirDrop. When someone tries to send you something, you’ll receive a notification asking if you want to accept or decline the transfer. So, even if your device is unlocked, you can still choose whether or not to accept the incoming content.
In my personal experience, I have found AirDrop to be a convenient and efficient way to share files between my Apple devices. Whether I want to quickly send a photo to a friend or transfer a document from my iPhone to my Mac, AirDrop has proven to be a reliable and user-friendly feature.
To sum up, yes, the iPhone does need to be unlocked for AirDrop to work. This is to ensure the security and control of the content being transferred. So, if you want to use AirDrop, make sure your device is unlocked and at the home screen, and you’ll be able to easily share files with nearby devices.