If you need to differentiate yourself from the genetic “iPhone” or “iPad” names, I will show you how to do it. I understand that there are multiple reasons why you would want to do that.
You have multiple devices and you need to label them differently so you can set them apart or you just want a custom name. Whatever the reason let me show you how you can change your AirDrop name.
TLDR: Settings > General > About > Name
iPad & iPhone
Your AirDrop name matches exactly what your iPad/iPhone name is on your device.
Doesn’t matter whether you want to change the name to iPad or iPhone because the steps are identical for both devices.
- Open the ‘Settings’
- Tap on ‘General’
- Tap on ‘About’
- Tap on ‘Device Name’
- Change the name.
I changed my AirDrop name on my iPad, took me about 30-45sec before my iPhone displayed the new name. Here’s how it looked:
In case your device is not showing up when you’re trying to AirDrop something go to:
- Settings>General>AirDrop>Switch to ‘Everyone for 10 Minutes’
MacBook
I usually create how-to guides for iPads and sometimes for iPhones, but this time I thought I would also create it for a MacBook since it’s quite relevant.
I often exchange files between my three devices with AirDrops. For me personally, it’s convenient. With a few taps, my pictures are on my MacBook.
Let me show you the steps:
- Click on the ‘Apple Logo’ (it’s in the top left corner)
- Click on ‘System Preferences…’
- Click on ‘Sharing’
- Change your MacBooks AirDrop name.
Troubleshooting Tips
Sometimes, the new AirDrop name may not immediately appear after making changes. Here are a couple of troubleshooting tips to help you out:
- Ensure that your device is running the latest software version.
- Restart Your Device: If the new AirDrop name doesn’t show up, try turning off your device and then turning it back on.
In case your device doesn’t appear at all:
- Make sure both devices are nearby
- Make sure that Bluetooth is enabled
- WiFi needs to be turned on
- Turn off the hotspot if it’s turned on.
That’s pretty much covers it. If you have any thoughts or comments, hit me below.
FAQ
What is the default AirDrop name?
The default AirDrop name is usually the name of your device, such as “John’s iPhone” or “Mary’s MacBook.” It is automatically set based on the name you have given to your device in the settings.
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I'm a writer and editor in iPads & Android Tablets, Windows Tablet section. I'm passionate about technology, especially about tablets. I'm on a mission to assist people in discovering their ideal tablets. In addition, I'm dedicated to producing helpful how-to guides and sharing top-notch tips and tricks. In my early carrier I founded and became and editor at worldoftablet and have been a guest author at many other tech blogs. In wolfoftablet I'm focusing on iPads, Tablets, Apple Pencil, Apps, Reviews, Buyers Guides and Tablet Accessories. In free time I like to play games on my PS5 or iOS.
