iOS 26.2 Introduces AirDrop Codes for Safer, Faster Sharing

Apple quietly added a practical new sharing feature with iOS 26.2, refining how AirDrop works when exchanging files with people who are not saved in your contacts. Called AirDrop codes, this update is designed to make short-term sharing easier while maintaining stronger privacy controls.

For users who frequently exchange files with colleagues, classmates, or nearby devices, this change strikes a balance between convenience and security.

What Are AirDrop Codes in iOS 26.2?

AirDrop codes add an extra verification step when sending files to someone outside your contact list. Instead of opening up AirDrop to everyone nearby or creating a new contact, users can now authorize sharing using a one-time code.

According to Apple’s release notes, the feature works by displaying a temporary code on the receiver’s device. The sender must enter that code to complete the transfer. Once verified, both devices recognize each other for future AirDrop sessions.

How AirDrop Codes Change File Sharing

Before iOS 26.2, AirDrop users had only three visibility options:

• Receiving Off

• Contacts Only

• Everyone for 10 Minutes

AirDrop codes effectively introduce a fourth, more flexible option. After a one-time verification, both users remain visible to each other for 30 days, without needing to exchange contact details.

This makes contacts files transfer more practical in real-world situations, such as sharing documents at work, photos at events, or files during short collaborations.

While AirDrop works best within Apple’s ecosystem, it’s not always useful when sharing files across different devices or platforms. This is where Smart Transfer, a third-party file sharing app, becomes relevant.

Smart Transfer enables contacts files transfer and media sharing over local Wi-Fi between devices, including Android and iOS. For users who need WiFi files sharing beyond AirDrop’s limitations, Smart Transfer offers a practical alternative, especially when switching phones or sending data between different operating systems.

Managing Authorized AirDrop Connections

Users can view and manage their temporary AirDrop authorizations by going to:

Settings → General → AirDrop

Apple notes that devices you’ve shared a code with will automatically remain visible for 30 days. After that period, access expires unless a new code is exchanged. This approach keeps WiFi files sharing simple without permanently loosening AirDrop security.

Why This Is Better Than Existing Options

The “Everyone for 10 Minutes” option allows broad visibility but significantly reduces privacy. On the other hand, “Contacts Only” can be inconvenient when you only need to share files briefly.

AirDrop codes sit comfortably in between. They’re quick to use, more secure, and ideal for repeated sharing over a short period without cluttering your contacts list.

A Small Feature With Big Practical Impact

AirDrop codes may not be a headline feature, but they solve a common pain point in everyday file sharing. By reducing friction while maintaining security, iOS 26.2 makes AirDrop more adaptable to how people actually use their devices.

For anyone who frequently shares files outside their contacts, this update is a welcome improvement.