How to use the new AirDrop Contacts feature on iPhone and Mac

Learn about the new AirDrop Contacts system in iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS Tahoe, which requires a one-time verification code before sharing files with people who are not in your contacts.

Understanding the New AirDrop Contacts System

Before this update, sharing a file with someone not in your contacts was straightforward. It involved just three simple steps:

1. The other person sets their AirDrop visibility to Everyone.

2. You select their device name on your AirDrop page.

3. The other person accepts the incoming request.

   
   

However, starting with iOS 26.2, iPadOS 26.2, and macOS 26.2, there’s an important change. When you share a file with someone whose mobile number or Apple Account email address isn’t saved in your Contacts app, an additional step is required.

This extra step involves entering a six-digit code displayed on the receiver’s device. This verification process ensures that you are sending the file to the correct person. It helps eliminate unwanted and accidental AirDrop transfers from strangers or potential stalkers.

Once the AirDrop transfer is complete and the code is verified, that person’s name is automatically saved to your Contacts app. For the next 30 days, all future AirDrop transfers with that person will not require code-based verification. The receiver simply needs to tap ‘Accept.’

Here’s more on this topic with step-by-step instructions. Make sure all participating devices are updated to OS 26.2 or later.

How to Use AirDrop with Code Verification

In these steps, I’ll guide you through the process assuming you are the one sending the file via AirDrop. If you are receiving, follow the same steps in reverse. The instructions are based on using an iPhone running iOS 26.2, but they are identical for iPad and Mac.

1. Ask the receiver to go to their iPhone Control Center or Settings > General > AirDrop and set the visibility to Everyone for 10 minutes.

2. Tap the share button for a photo, video, or file on your iPhone, select AirDrop, and tap the person’s device name.

   
   

1. The receiver will see an “Use AirDrop Code” alert on their device. They must tap Get AirDrop Code to receive a six-digit code.

   
   

1. Enter that six-digit number on your iPhone AirDrop screen to start the transfer.

   
   

Your file will start transferring right away.

No Code for the Next 30 Days

After verifying with this one-time code, you won’t need to verify again for the next 30 days when sharing files with this user. All the receiver has to do is tap Accept.

Managing Your AirDrop Contacts

Viewing Known AirDrop Contacts

1. Open the Contacts or Phone app and tap the arrow button in the top left corner. Alternatively, go to iOS Settings > General > AirDrop and tap Manage Known AirDrop Contacts.

2. Tap the Other Known list to see all users you have exchanged files with via the one-time AirDrop verification method.

   
   

Removing Contacts

To remove a person, tap their name and select Forget This Person. If you need to share files with this person again, you’ll have to re-verify.

My Experience with AirDrop Code Verification

I initially thought that once I verified a person with an AirDrop code on one device, like my iPhone, I wouldn’t have to do it again on my iPad or Mac.

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“You will automatically appear for 30 days to people you have shared a one-time code with.”

However, during my tests, I discovered that I had to verify the same person and their device with different six-digit codes when sending files from my iPad and Mac. This was surprising, especially since my iPad and Mac use the same Apple Account as my iPhone.

You can see that my name is listed three times (once each for my iPhone, iPad, and Mac) in the Other Known section of the receiver’s device.

Conclusion

What do you think of this new feature? I find it adds an extra layer of security while using AirDrop. It’s reassuring to know that I can share files safely, even with people not in my contacts. This update makes sharing easier and safer, ensuring that my files reach the right hands.

With the new AirDrop Contacts system, I feel more confident in sharing files, knowing that I can manage my contacts effectively. It’s a great step forward in enhancing user experience and security.