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Tech Tips

AirDrop large and multiple files with this throwback tip

Portrait of Cody Godwin Cody Godwin
USA TODAY
May 5, 2026, 7:25 a.m. ET
  • A wired connection can be used to speed up large or multiple file transfers via AirDrop.
  • Some Android users can now use Quick Share to send and receive files with Apple devices via AirDrop.

If you use Apple products and you’re not using AirDrop, you need to start. It’s one of the quickest and easiest ways to share content — including photos and videos, webpages, social media posts, documents and your contact information — with Apple devices around you.Sometimes, the other device doesn’t show up, or the request doesn’t go through when you attempt to share media via AirDrop. If this happens, double-check that both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network and that Bluetooth is turned on. Otherwise, turn the devices off and on again, and try again.

Other times, the request appears, but the transfer takes ages to complete — if it doesn’t fail first. Keep reading for a simple way to get the files where they need to be.Watch this video to see a faster way to transfer multiple and large files using AirDrop. 

How to AirDrop 

The first step in using AirDrop is to make sure it’s turned on. You can find this under Settings > General > AirDrop. You have three options to choose from: 

  • Receiving Off. 
  • Contacts Only. 
  • Everyone for 10 Minutes. 

With any AirDrop transfer, you have the option to accept or decline files sent to you.

To send files, look for the share button. Nearby devices will appear, or you can tap the AirDrop icon in the share menu.

Tap the device you want to share with, and the files will be sent moments after the recipient accepts.Any pictures and videos sent via AirDrop will automatically save in the recipient’s camera roll. 

A faster way to AirDrop

AirDropping files is convenient — except when you’re sending a lot of content or larger files.

To speed up the process and reduce the risk of a failed or incomplete transfer, plug the devices in.

Connect the two devices with a cable. You’ll see a notification that says “Using Wired Connection,” and this physical line will help large transfers finish faster.

Unlike wireless AirDrop, this method works even if Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are turned off.

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How to AirDrop with an Android

AirDrop isn’t just for Apple devices anymore. Some Android users can send and receive AirDrops using Quick Share.  To send content from an Android to an Apple device: 

  1. Have the Apple users change their AirDrop settings to “Everyone for 10 Minutes.” 
  2. Open the content you want to share on the Android device and tap Share > Quick Share.
  3. Select the Apple device and wait for the recipient to accept the transfer. 

To receive an AirDrop on an Android: 

  1. Set your Quick Share visibility settings to Receive mode or “Everyone for 10 minutes.” 
  2. Have the Apple user tap your name in their AirDrop share menu. 
  3. Wait for the notification alerting you someone’s trying to share content with you. 
  4. Accept or decline it.

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