User profile for user: rsbrux
rsbrux Author
User level: Level 1
24 points

AirDrop to Contacts not working on my iPad Pro

When I enable AirDrop on my iPad Pro running iPadOS 18.4.1 to recieve from "Contacts Only", I cannot receive an AirDrop from my wife's iPad Air 2 running iOS 18.4.1. I don't receive any notification nor do I receive aprompt to accept; she simply receives a "declined" notice after a minute or so. I was only able to receive the transmission after changing AirDrop's settings to "Everyone for 10 Minutes". Needless to say, my wife is in my contacts, with the e-mail address registered to her Apple ID. Why doesn't AirDrop work for "Contacts Only"?



[Re-Titled by Moderator]

iPad Pro, iPadOS 18

Posted on Apr 20, 2025 6:19 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply
User profile for user: LotusPilot
LotusPilot
Community+ 2025
User level: Level 10
301,724 points

Posted on Apr 20, 2025 7:58 AM

AirDrop is reliant upon WiFi and Bluetooth; ensure that both are enabled on your iPad, then perform a forced-restart:


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.




Force restart iPad (models with the Home button)

Press and hold the top button and the Home button at the same time. When the Apple logo appears, release both buttons.



If the problem persists, try removing your wife's contact card, restart the iPad, then recreate the contact card. Then try again to AirDrop.

View in context

Similar questions

3 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply
User profile for user: LotusPilot
LotusPilot
Community+ 2025
User level: Level 10
301,724 points

Apr 20, 2025 7:58 AM in response to rsbrux

AirDrop is reliant upon WiFi and Bluetooth; ensure that both are enabled on your iPad, then perform a forced-restart:


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.




Force restart iPad (models with the Home button)

Press and hold the top button and the Home button at the same time. When the Apple logo appears, release both buttons.



If the problem persists, try removing your wife's contact card, restart the iPad, then recreate the contact card. Then try again to AirDrop.

Reply

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

AirDrop to Contacts not working on my iPad Pro

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.
Learn more Sign up