Why is AirDrop not working on iPhone XR?

Answered by Willian Lymon

There could be several reasons why AirDrop is not working on an iPhone XR. Let’s explore some possible causes and solutions:

1. Bluetooth or Wi-Fi is not enabled: AirDrop requires both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to be enabled for it to function properly. Make sure that both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are turned on in the iPhone XR’s settings. You can check this by swiping down from the top-right corner of the screen to open Control Center and ensuring that the Bluetooth and Wi-Fi icons are highlighted.

2. AirDrop settings are not properly configured: AirDrop has three options for visibility – “Receiving Off,” “Contacts Only,” and “Everyone.” If your AirDrop visibility is set to “Receiving Off,” you won’t be able to receive files. To change this, go to Settings > General > AirDrop and select either “Contacts Only” or “Everyone” based on your preference.

3. Distance limitations: AirDrop works within a range of approximately 30 feet. Ensure that the devices you are trying to share files with are within this range. If the devices are too far apart, AirDrop may not work.

4. Devices are not compatible: AirDrop requires both devices to have AirDrop capabilities. Verify that the other device you are trying to share files with also supports AirDrop. Additionally, ensure that the other device is not on sleep mode or locked, as AirDrop will not function in these situations.

5. Software issues: Sometimes, software glitches can cause AirDrop to stop working. Ensure that your iPhone XR has the latest software update installed. You can check for updates by going to Settings > General > Software Update.

6. Connectivity problems: If there are connectivity issues with either Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, AirDrop may not work. Try toggling the Bluetooth and Wi-Fi settings off and on again, or restart your iPhone XR to refresh the connections.

7. Firewall or network restrictions: If you are on a restricted network, such as a corporate or public Wi-Fi network, AirDrop may be blocked by the network’s firewall or restrictions. In such cases, you may need to connect to a different network or consult your network administrator for assistance.

8. Device-specific issues: In some cases, there may be specific issues with the iPhone XR itself. If none of the above solutions work, you can try resetting your network settings by going to Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings. However, note that this will erase saved Wi-Fi networks and passwords, so make sure to have them handy.

It’s important to note that AirDrop functionality can vary depending on the devices and settings involved. If the issue persists, you may want to reach out to Apple Support for further assistance.

I hope this detailed explanation helps you troubleshoot and resolve the AirDrop issue on your iPhone XR.