Make & keep
AirDrop a photo strip to another Apple device
Send selected strip frames to a nearby Apple device and check where the received copies were saved.
For a nearby iPhone, iPad, or Mac, AirDrop can transfer selected Photos items without building a shared album. It is useful for handing a sequence to another device owner, but check the selection and sharing options first: the files may include identifying metadata.
Prepare both devices
Enable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on both devices and keep them nearby. Make sure AirDrop receiving is enabled. Contacts Only works for recognised contacts; Everyone for 10 Minutes can allow other nearby senders. On iOS, iPadOS, or macOS 26.2 or later, sending to someone outside your contacts requires an AirDrop code: the recipient follows the prompt to get a code and shares it with the sender.
Evidence: Apple user guide
Select and send the frames
In Photos, tap Select, choose the frames, then tap Share > AirDrop and choose the recipient. Review Share Options first: photos may include date, time, location, device, and captions. All Photos Data can send the original with edit history and metadata over AirDrop.
Evidence: Apple user guide
Check the received sequence
The recipient accepts the transfer unless both devices use the same Apple Account, in which case acceptance is automatic. On iPhone or iPad, photos normally appear in Photos; on Mac, check Downloads or the destination selected when receiving. Compare the frame count and appearance before deleting a source. AirDrop makes copies rather than an album that synchronises later edits.
Evidence: Apple user guide
Sources & further reading
Sources for the specific facts and product descriptions above. Our worked examples, interpretations and practical suggestions are original editorial guidance.
- Apple iPhone User Guide — Use AirDrop to send itemsApple user guide