How To Fix MacBook AirDrop Not Working On MacOS Sonoma

AirDrop is a feature on MacBooks that allows users to wirelessly transfer files between Apple devices. It’s a convenient way to share documents, photos, and more, but sometimes it can run into issues.

If you’re experiencing problems with AirDrop not working on your MacBook running macOS Sonoma, then we are here for you!

In this article, we will be discussing all the fixes that will help you to fix the issue of MacBook AirDrop not working on macOS Sonoma without any hassle.

How To Fix MacBook AirDrop Not Working On MacOS Sonoma?

To fix MacBook AirDrop not working on macOS Sonoma, you can check basic requirements, check the AirDrop settings and restart the Bluetooth. Additionally, you can also disable and enable the AirDrop to fix the issue.

1. Check Basic Requirements

Before diving into troubleshooting, ensure that all basic requirements for AirDrop are met:

• Both devices should have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth turned on.
• Personal Hotspot must be turned off.
• The devices should be within 30 feet (9 meters) of each other.
• Both devices should not be in sleep mode.

2. Check AirDrop Settings

1. Open Finder and click on “AirDrop” in the sidebar.
2. At the bottom of the AirDrop window, click on “Allow me to be discovered by” and ensure it’s set to “Everyone” or “Contacts Only,” depending on your preference.

3. Restart Wi-Fi And Bluetooth

Sometimes, simply restarting Wi-Fi and Bluetooth can resolve connectivity issues:

1. Click on the Wi-Fi icon in the menu bar and turn it off.

1. Click on the Bluetooth icon in the menu bar and turn it off.

1. Wait a few seconds, then turn both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth back on.

4. Disable And Enable AirDrop

Try disabling and re-enabling AirDrop:

1. Open Control Center from the menu bar.
2. Click on “AirDrop” and choose “Receiving Off.“
3. Wait a few moments and then turn AirDrop back on by selecting “Contacts Only” or “Everyone.”

5. Restart Your MacBook

A classic troubleshooting step is to restart your device, which can clear temporary glitches:

1. Click on the Apple menu.
2. Select “Restart” and wait for your MacBook to reboot.

6. Check Firewall Settings

An active firewall can block incoming connections, including AirDrop:

1. Open System Settings.
2. Click on “Security & Privacy.”
3. Select the Firewall tab.
4. If the firewall is on, click the lock icon to make changes (you may need to enter your admin password).
5. Click “Firewall Options” and ensure “Block all incoming connections” is not selected.
6. Check if “Automatically allow built-in software to receive incoming connections” is enabled.

7. Update MacOS

Running the latest version of macOS can resolve bugs and compatibility issues:

1. Click on the Apple menu and select “About This Mac.”
2. Go to the “Software Update” section.
3. If there’s an update available, click “Update Now” to install it.

8. Reset Network Settings

Network issues can sometimes affect AirDrop. Resetting your network settings may help:

1. Turn off Wi-Fi from the menu bar.
2. Open Finder, and in the menu bar, select “Go” > “Go to Folder.”
3. Type /Library/Preferences/SystemConfiguration/ and click “Go.”
4. Locate the following files and move them to the desktop as a backup:
   • com.apple.airport.preferences.plist
   • com.apple.network.identification.plist
   • com.apple.wifi.message-tracer.plist
   • NetworkInterfaces.plist
   • preferences.plist
5. Restart your MacBook.
6. After the restart, turn Wi-Fi back on. Your network settings will be reset, and you may need to reconfigure your Wi-Fi connections.

9. Check For Interference

Other devices can interfere with AirDrop. Make sure there are no other devices causing interference between the two Apple devices attempting to use AirDrop.

10. Use Safe Mode

Booting into Safe Mode can help you determine if the issue is related to any third-party software:

1. Restart your MacBook and immediately press and hold the Shift key.
2. Release the Shift key when you see the login window.
3. Try using AirDrop in Safe Mode to see if it works.

11. Reset Bluetooth Module

Resetting the MacBook’s Bluetooth module may resolve connectivity issues:

1. Hold down the Shift + Option (Alt) keys and click on the Bluetooth icon in the menu bar.
2. Select “Reset the Bluetooth module” from the debug menu.
3. Restart your MacBook.

12. Contact Apple Support

By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to resolve the issue with AirDrop not working on your MacBook running macOS Sonoma. If none of the above solutions work, there may be a hardware issue with your MacBook or the device you are trying to AirDrop to. Contact Apple Support for professional assistance.