When AirDrop works, it feels like you’re a wizard. You right-click a file, click AirDrop, and poof—it’s on the other Mac. No cables, no confusion, no emailing yourself. It’s so seamless you’ll think Steve Jobs personally blessed your router.
But here’s the secret: AirDrop is also a finicky little diva. It has moods. Sometimes it refuses to see your other Mac even if they’re touching. I swear, it’s like a toddler throwing a tantrum because you didn’t turn on Bluetooth in the right order.
Step one: Make sure both Macs are actually awake
This sounds stupid, but it’s the #1 offender. If your Mac is asleep or the lid is closed, AirDrop won’t work. I’m not kidding. It’s like shouting at a sleeping person—they just won’t hear you. So, wake both up. Tap a key. Wave your mouse. Do the hokey-pokey. Just get them breathing.
Next, check the settings. Go to Finder and click “AirDrop” in the sidebar. You should see a window that looks like a sad, empty room. At the bottom, there’s a dropdown that says “Allow me to be discovered by:”. Set it to “Everyone.” Yes, everyone. I know it sounds sketchy, but it’s the only way to guarantee it sees your other Mac.
