NameDrop lets two compatible iPhones exchange contact information by holding the top edges close together. It uses AirDrop-style short-range sharing, so both phones must be nearby, awake, and unlocked.
NameDrop requires iOS 17 or later on supported iPhones.
Does This Affect You?
Use this if you want to swap contact details without typing phone numbers, scanning a code, or reading an email address out loud.
Share Contact Info with NameDrop
- Wake and unlock both iPhones.
- Hold the top edges of the two iPhones close together.
- Wait for the glowing animation and contact preview.
- Choose whether to share and receive, or only share your own card.
- Keep the phones close until the exchange finishes.
- Confirm the contact card is saved in Contacts.
You can also open your own contact card first, then bring the other iPhone close to start sharing.
Fix NameDrop If It Does Not Appear
- Open Settings > General > AirDrop.
- Make sure Receiving Off is not selected. Use Contacts Only or Everyone for 10 Minutes as appropriate.
- Confirm Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are on for both iPhones.
- Hold the top edges closer and keep them still for a moment.
- Restart both iPhones if the connection still does not trigger.
NameDrop Notes
Your My Card Controls What Shares
NameDrop can share details from your Contacts My Card. Remove email addresses or numbers you do not want available before sharing.
Managed Devices
Schools and workplaces can disable AirDrop or NameDrop with management profiles. If settings are controlled, you may not be able to re-enable it yourself.
Unlocked Phones Only
NameDrop does not pull contact details from a locked iPhone. If either phone locks or moves away during the transfer, sharing cancels.
Sources
- Apple Support: Share contact info with NameDrop on iPhone
- Apple Support: Use AirDrop on iPhone
- Apple Support: Set up contact info in Contacts on iPhone