AirDrop is a useful function found on Apple devices. It transfers files from one device to another over Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Here’s all you need to know about tracking down the files you’ve shared.
The location of an AirDrop file on your iPad is determined by the type of file you’re sharing. The program you use to send a file usually determines where it travels. If you share a photo or video, it will be saved in the Photos app; if you share a link, it will be opened in a browser, and so on.
Continue reading to discover more about AirDrop and how to locate files on an iPad. We’ve also included some troubleshooting advice in case you can’t find what you’re looking for.
So, What Happens to AirDrop Files on iPad?
AirDrop allows you to exchange a wide range of file formats. This function is most commonly used to share images, but it may also be used to share files, presentations, text files, website URLs, contacts, and more.
The location of the shared file is determined by the type of file:
- If you sent someone a photo or video, they should be able to find it in their Photos app.
- Text and presentation files are commonly found in the Keynote software.
- If you share a song using AirDrop, it will appear in your Apple Music Library.
- You may also use AirDrop to share links. Your shared URL will open in Safari or another browser of your choice.
In most circumstances, the app from which you transmit the file is also the app to which the file will be sent. Your iPad may also prompt you to choose the app you want to store the file.
You may receive a notification asking you to select one of several apps that can open the file format you received over AirDrop.
If you receive this file format again in the future, your iPad will remember your choice and send it to the app you picked.
Does the AirDrop feature work on all Apple devices in the same way?
AirDrop works on the iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, and Mac computers, among other Apple devices. It’s a simple way to share files among your various devices.
On the iPad and other devices, where do AirDrop files go? On the iPad, iPhone, and iPod Touch, you’ll find these files in the same app that the sender used to share them.
Because not all apps are available on these different platforms, there may be some variances, and your Apple device may prompt you to choose where you want to save the file if it hasn’t encountered this file type before.
One thing to keep in mind is that Mac machines save AirDropped files differently than Windows systems.
Regardless of the file format, anything you send from your iPad to your Mac will end up in your Downloads folder.
Live Photos are the sole exception. Because you’ll get a static image instead of a Live Photo if you choose the Downloads file, you’ll be able to open these images with the Photos app.
Is it possible to search for an AirDropped file on an iPad?
If you received a file via AirDrop but aren’t sure where it went, you can use your iPad’s search tool to find it.
Here’s how to find an AirDropped file using the search feature:
- Swipe down from the top of your home or lock screen. A search field will appear on the screen.
- Enter the full or partial name of the file you’re looking for. If you don’t recognize the file name, ask the sender to check what the file was stored as on their device, as the name will not change when you AirDrop a file.
- You have the option of including or excluding apps from your search. Searching through fewer apps is faster, but if you’re not sure where the file went, don’t be afraid to include more apps to expand your search.
Troubleshooting Tips for the iPad’s AirDrop Feature
You may troubleshoot issues with the AirDrop feature on your iPad by following a few steps.
Check your AirDrop settings to make sure they’re proper.
An airDrop must be turned on for both you and the recipients. To begin, go to the AirDrop settings:
- On your iPad, open the Settings app and select General.
- Choose AirDrop. Receiving off, Contact only, and Everyone is the three options available.
You won’t be able to receive any files if Receiving is turned off. If you simply choose Contacts, ensure sure you and the recipient are both in each other’s contacts. Choosing Everyone can help with a variety of situations.
It’s a good idea to turn off the AirDrop feature once you’ve finished using it. It will protect your iPad’s battery and keep you safe.
Examine the Range
Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connections are used for AirDrop transmissions. Make sure the two devices you’re using to transfer data have Bluetooth or Wi-Fi enabled.
The range can be a concern as well. Close the distance between the devices and try transferring the file again.
Accept the Transfer or Reject it
When you send a file to a contact, they will see a notification on their screen. They will be given the choice of accepting or declining the transfer. Ascertain that they accept the offer.
When AirDropping files between your devices, you won’t receive this message, but you’ll need to make sure you’re logged in with the same Apple ID on all of them.
FAQ
Here are a few more things to keep in mind when utilizing AirDrop on your iPad.
How can I use AirDrop on my iPad to send files?
Look for the in-app Share button when you’ve found the file you wish to share.
You can choose AirDrop or another sharing method by tapping this button.
If there are multiple devices nearby, a red number will appear next to the AirDrop button. When you tap the AirDrop button, a new screen will appear, allowing you to select the contactor device to whom the file will be sent.
What happens if I can’t see the device or user to whom I’d like to transmit a file?
Check that their device is within range and that the recipient’s device has Bluetooth or Wi-Fi enabled. They should also double-check their AirDrop settings and make sure that Everyone or Contacts Only is selected.
What happens if I can’t locate a file that was sent using AirDrop?
Inquire as to which app the sender used to send the file. In the same program, you should be able to find the file.
If you can’t find the file, use the search option, check your AirDrop settings, or try a new transfer at a closer range.
