TL;DR
iOS 26.2 introduces AirDrop codes, a new option that lets people who aren’t in your contacts exchange a one-time code to enable AirDrop between devices. After the code is used, the two devices remain discoverable to each other for 30 days and the pairing can be managed in AirDrop settings.
What happened
Apple’s iOS 26.2 update added a new AirDrop option called AirDrop codes that aims to simplify and secure sharing with people not in your contacts. When a receiver generates a code on their device, the sender must enter that code to complete the transfer; once entered, both devices will appear as AirDrop targets to one another for 30 days. This functions as an alternative to the existing Receiving Off, Contacts Only, and Everyone for 10 Minutes settings. The feature is managed from Settings → General → AirDrop, where you can view and remove people you’ve authorized this way. Apple frames the change as an extra verification step for unknown contacts that avoids the friction of creating a new contact or opening AirDrop to everyone temporarily.
Why it matters
- Provides an extra verification step when sharing with people who aren’t in your contacts, reducing accidental transfers.
- Offers a middle ground between the convenience of Everyone for 10 Minutes and the privacy of Contacts Only.
- Avoids the need to create a permanent contact just to share files repeatedly with the same person.
- Gives 30 days of continued discoverability after authorization, cutting down repeat setup for frequent transfers.
Key facts
- AirDrop codes were introduced in iOS 26.2.
- A receiver displays a one-time code that a sender must enter to complete an AirDrop transfer.
- After the code is used, the two devices remain discoverable to each other for 30 days.
- AirDrop codes act as an additional option alongside Receiving Off, Contacts Only, and Everyone for 10 Minutes.
- You can manage AirDrop authorizations in Settings → General → AirDrop.
- Apple describes the codes as adding a layer of verification for sharing with unknown contacts.
- The feature is positioned as quicker and simpler than creating a contact or temporarily opening AirDrop to everyone.
What to watch next
- Whether Apple will provide finer controls for revoking or shortening the 30-day authorization period — not confirmed in the source.
- If support for AirDrop codes extends across iPad, Mac, and other Apple devices in the same way as existing AirDrop functionality — not confirmed in the source.
Quick glossary
- AirDrop: Apple’s wireless feature for sending files, photos, and links directly between nearby Apple devices.
- iOS 26.2: A software update for Apple’s iPhone operating system that includes new features and enhancements.
- One-time code: A temporary numeric or alphanumeric code generated for a single authorization or verification event.
- Contacts Only: An AirDrop privacy setting that limits device visibility to people saved in your contacts.
Reader FAQ
How do AirDrop codes work?
The receiver generates a one-time code on their device; the sender enters that code to complete the transfer, after which both devices remain discoverable to each other for 30 days.
Where do I manage devices I’ve authorized with a code?
You can view and manage those devices in Settings → General → AirDrop.
Do AirDrop codes replace existing privacy options?
No. They act as an additional option alongside Receiving Off, Contacts Only, and Everyone for 10 Minutes.
Are codes required for every AirDrop transfer?
not confirmed in the source
Report: Apple to fine-tune Gemini independently, no Google branding on Siri, more Marcus Mendes Jan 13 2026 IOS 26 AIRDROP IOS 26.2 iOS 26.2 added new AirDrop upgrade, here’s how…
Sources
- iOS 26.2 added new AirDrop upgrade, here’s how it works
- iOS 26.2 Adds Temporary AirDrop Access With Shareable Codes
- iOS 26.2 is here with one-time AirDrop codes, alarms in Reminders, more
- iOS 26.2 Is Here to Stop AirDrop Spam
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