How to share files faster on iPhone, iPad, Mac using wired AirDrop

Apple’s AirDrop has been here for a long time, and it made our lives easy and convenient. Simply turn on AirDrop, pull up the sharing window, and with a single tap, the file on your Apple device will be instantly sent to another Apple device.

Well, that’s how we have been using AirDrop for a while. But what if we say that it’s a wrong way of using AirDrop, especially for larger files? Enter the wired AirDrop method. Simply use a USB-C to USB-C cable or Lightning cable, and you just unlocked a faster file-sharing method for Apple devices.

Here’s how you can share files faster on iPhone, iPad, and Mac using the wired AirDrop trick.

What are the prerequisites for wired AirDrop?

Before using wired AirDrop, you need to get a few things right.

1. Make sure to keep your iPhone, iPad, or Mac updated to the latest OS so you don’t run into any issues. Although even if you don’t, this method should still mostly work.

2. Keep a USB-C to USB-C or Lightning cable ready for your Apple devices. If you own a Pro model, a Thunderbolt 3 or 4 cable will ensure even faster transfer speeds.

3. Even though you will be using the wired method, ensure Wi-Fi and Bluetooth is enabled on both devices.

4. This goes without saying that AirDrop should be turned on and set to Everyone or Contacts Only.

ALSO READ: Troubleshooting AirDrop: Why is it not working and how to fix it?

Once you have these prerequisites ready, you are good to go.

How to use wired AirDrop to share files faster

Step 1: Connect your iPhone or iPad to your Mac using the USB-C to USB-C or USB-C to Lightning cable (depending on the model).

Step 2: Trust your iPhone or iPad on other Apple device.

Step 3: Select files that you want to share (Note that this method is reliable for large files).

Step 4: Hit the share icon and tap AirDrop.

Step 5: Select the connected Apple device.

Step 6: Tap Accept on the other Apple device.

Once you do all of the above, your files will be instantly sent to the other Apple device. Notably, you should see the ‘Using Wired Connection’ indication, confirming that you are using the wired AirDrop method.

There you go. You just unlocked faster file sharing with wired AirDrop. What do you think about this AirDrop trick? Do let us know your thoughts in the comments below.