APPLE has changed how AirDrop works for millions of iPhone users – so it’s time to scrub up on the new rules.
The latest iOS update for your iPhone has permanently altered the feature.
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If you’ve never used AirDrop, you’re missing it.
It’s an amazing feature that lets you share and receive photos, documents and more with other iPhones and iPads extremely quickly – using a combination of WiFi and Bluetooth.
You were previously able to leave your AirDrop permanently open to “Everyone”, letting you receive files from anyone – even if they’re not a contact.
But Apple has now changed that to make it a temporary feature.
The change first rolled out in China earlier this year, but is now live for everyone as of this week’s iOS 16.2 update.
Now setting your AirDrop to Everyone is a temporary change that only lasts 10 minutes.
Some feared that the change would make it harder for iPhone owners in China to share protest materials.
But it might also help millions of iPhone owners avoid receiving dodgy AirDrops from pranksters.
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Of course you can still opt for Off and Contacts Only as permanent options.
However if you need to use Everyone then it’s important to know how to turn it on quickly.
How to change AirDrop settings on iPhone
The quickest way to turn Everyone on is to swipe into your Control Centre.
On Face ID models, that means swiping down from the top-right of your screen. For Home button models, swipe up from the bottom edge of the display.
Then long-press on the tile that contains your WiFi, Bluetooth, Mobile and Airplane Mode settings.
Now simply tap AirDrop and choose Everyone for 10 Minutes.
You can also change your preferences by going into Settings > General > AirDrop.
However this is much slower, so it’s better to make a habit of the Control Centre method.
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This post first appeared on Thesun.co.uk
