Enable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on both devices, put them nearby, open AirDrop on the Mac and make the receiver discoverable, then restart both devices. Confirm Contacts Only has matching Apple Account contact details. AirDrop also needs the screen on and unlocked on the receiving device, so wake it before you send.
What this covers
- AirDrop between a supported Mac and nearby iPhone or iPad
What it does not cover
- ×Windows or Android devices, which do not receive AirDrop
Try in this order
0 of 4 completedTurn on Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
ReversibleEnable both radios on the Mac and iPhone, and temporarily turn off Personal Hotspot during local discovery.
Open AirDrop and set visibility
ReversibleOpen Finder › AirDrop on Mac and choose Contacts Only or Everyone; make the receiving iPhone discoverable as well.
Verify contact identity
ReversibleFor Contacts Only, confirm the sender and recipient cards include the email address or phone number used by each Apple Account.
Restart both Apple devices
ReversibleRestart Mac and iPhone, then retry with one small file while the devices remain nearby.
Evidence ledger
Sources behind this answer
Exact questions
Common questions about “AirDrop is not working between a Mac and iPhone”
Can I use another way to send the file meanwhile?+
Yes. Messages, Mail or a shared iCloud Drive folder move files between a Mac and an iPhone while you troubleshoot AirDrop. It is not a fix, but it keeps you working.
Why is AirDrop not working on Mac?+
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or receiving settings may be off.
Could Firewall matter?+
Yes, blocking all incoming connections can stop it.
Are Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on?+
Both must be on for AirDrop to find devices.
Is the Mac set to receive from everyone?+
Choose Everyone for a test.
Does the firewall block incoming connections?+
Blocking all incoming connections can stop it.
Does Handoff or iCloud sign-in matter?+
Contacts Only mode needs both devices signed in to iCloud. If you cannot sign in on one, switch to Everyone for a test transfer.
What if AirDrop works one way only?+
Check that both devices are set to receive from the sender's category and that the Mac is awake and unlocked.
Should I update macOS?+
Yes. AirDrop fixes are included in system updates, and mismatched versions can cause problems between devices. Update both the Mac and the iPhone.
Could the Mac's sharing settings matter?+
AirDrop is affected by the Mac's discoverability setting and firewall options. Check that AirDrop is set to allow Everyone for testing and that no security tool blocks it.