Airdrop Failed after iOS 26.2 update

I believe you have encounterred a bug with iPadOS 26.2. Several similar reports have been noted elsewhere within the Apple Support Communities.

I too am experiencing similar difficulties with AirDrop subsequent to updating to iOS/iPadOS 26.2...

I have one iPad (iPad #1 using AppleID #1) that is unable to AirDrop to one other iPad (iPad #2 using AppleID #2). However iPad #1 can still receive AirDrop from iPad #2 without issue - and similarly can freely AirDrop between iPad #1 and iPhone #1 (using AppleID #1) and iPhone #2 (using AppleID #2). iPad #2 has no such issues with unidirectional AirDrop between these users or associated devices. All devices are using the same WiFi network.

• iPad #1 (AppleID #1) >>> iPad #2 (AppleID #2) ❌
• iPad #1 (AppleID #1) <<< iPad #2 (AppleID #2) ✅

• iPad #1 (AppleID #1) >>> iPhone #1 (AppleID #1) ✅
• iPad #1 (AppleID #1) <<< iPhone #1 (AppleID #1) ✅

You and anyone else that encounters difficulties with AirDrop subsequent to updating to 26.2 would be best advised to submit a Bug Report via Apple's Product Feedback portal:

Feedback - Apple

When submitting your Bug Report, please ensure that you include details of your iPad model and installed version of iPadOS within the body-text of your report along with details of the problem. Do not rely upon the pick-list - as this rarely includes the current version of iPadOS.

Every Bug Report counts. Unless sufficient reports are submitted (with adequate detail), Apple may not assign resources to investigate and correct the issue.

In addition [i.e., not as a substitute] to submitting a Bug Report, you might also consider seeking assistance directly from Apple Support. You can contact the Support Team using the Support link at top-right or bottom-left of this page; you can initiate and manage your support cases from Apple devices using the excellent Apple Support App. If not already installed, the App can be downloaded from the App Store:

https://apps.apple.com/app/apple-support/id1130498044

Continued...

You might also try general troubleshooting. If your iPad is not operating as expected, begin with a forced-restart - as this will often clear an isolated software issue:

Force restart iPad (models with Face ID or with Touch ID in the top button)

If your iPad doesn’t have the Home button, do the following:

1. Press and quickly release the volume button nearest to the top button.
2. Press and quickly release the volume button farthest from the top button.
3. Press and hold the top button.
4. When the Apple logo appears, release the top button.

If the problem persists after performing the restart, it may be necessary to reset your iPad settings. While this reset will not cause any loss of data, as a precaution, it is always wise to ensure that you have a current iCloud or iTunes backup before performing the reset:

How to back up your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch - Apple Support

When you are happy to proceed, you can perform the reset from iPad settings:

Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPad > Reset > Reset All Settings

If the problem still doesn’t clear, the next step is to reset the iPad to factory settings:

Restore your iPhone, iPad, or iPod to factory settings - Apple Support

Otherwise, as previously indicated, you would be best advised to seek assistance directly from Apple Support. You can contact the Support Team using the Support link at top-right or bottom-left of this page. Alternatively and perhaps easier, you can initiate and manage your support cases using the excellent Apple Support App. If not already installed on your iPad, the App can be downloaded from the App Store:

https://apps.apple.com/app/apple-support/id1130498044

You might also visit the Genius Bar at your local Apple Store or Apple Authorised Service Provider (AASP) - where the technicians will be able to assist with troubleshooting:

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

Just tested Airdrop on my two Mac's and a iPad. I can transfer from my Mac's to the iPad but reversing the process doesn't work. The work-a-round for this is using a a app called Local Send that you can put on a Mac as well as a iPad. It doesn't use the Bluetooth module but just the WiFi on the devices. I should also mention that between Mac's is non-functional. Airdrop on either device can not see the other Mac.

You gotta do what you gotta do to get around some short comings on the OS's. Airdrop worked on the first two public Tahoe installs but since last Friday on the third, something broke.

Just make sure that you have Local Send open on both devices.