How to Airdrop Photos from One iPhone to Another Without iCloud

It is possible to airdrop all your photos from one iPhone to another without relying on iCloud. This method provides a straightforward and secure way to transfer photo files, making it a valuable alternative when you need to share large amounts of data.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Enable AirDrop

To start, ensure both iPhones are enabled for Airdrop. These steps can be followed on both iPhones:

tSwipe down from the upper-right corner or swipe up from the bottom on older models to open the Control Center. tPress and hold the network settings card (the one with Airplane Mode, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth icons). tTapa AirDrop and select either Contacts Only or Everyone for visibility. Contacts Only limits the visibility to your contacts, while Everyone makes your device visible to anyone nearby.

Step 2: Select Photos

On the iPhone you wish to share photos from:

tOpen the Photos app. tTap Select in the upper-right corner. tChoose the photos you want to share. You can select multiple photos by tapping on them.

Step 3: Share via AirDrop

After selecting the photos:

tTap the Share icon (a square with an arrow pointing up). tIn the AirDrop section, tap on the name of the receiving iPhone.

Step 4: Accept the Transfer

On the receiving iPhone:

tA prompt will appear to accept the incoming photos. Tap Accept to start the transfer.

Theory vs. Practice

While Airdrop is theoretically capable of transferring all your photos, many users report issues when attempting to transfer hundreds of images at once. In practice, it is recommended not to transfer more than 100 photos at a time to ensure a smooth transfer. If you need to move a larger number of photos, it is best to use iCloud or a third-party file transfer app.

Alternatives to Airdrop

For transferring large amounts of data, or for when Airdrop does not work well, you can consider the following alternatives:

1. iCloud

Using iCloud is a reliable and hassle-free option. The first 5 GB of storage on iCloud is free, making it a practical solution for storing and transferring a significant number of photos. To start syncing your photos via iCloud:

tSign in to the Photos app on both iPhones using the same iCloud account. tEnsure automatic photo upload is enabled.

This method ensures that your photos are available on both devices and can be easily accessed through the Photos app.

2. Apple’s QuickStart Feature

If you’re transferring content from an old iPhone to a new one, Apple’s QuickStart feature is your go-to tool. This feature automatically transfers all your content, including photos, apps, and settings, to the new device. QuickStart is straightforward to use, and your new iPhone will be set up with all the content from your old one.

3. Third-Party Apps

There are several third-party apps that can help you transfer photos from one iPhone to another without relying on iCloud. These apps often offer additional features such as automatic backup and data synchronization. Examples include Lexar TrasferClip, Samsung Flow, and more.

Conclusion

Airdrop is a convenient and secure method for transferring photos between iPhones, but it has its limitations. For a seamless and reliable experience, especially when transferring a large number of photos, it is advisable to use iCloud or Apple’s QuickStart feature. However, if you require a third-party solution, there are several reliable options available to you.