How to Find AirDrop Files on Mac
Users of the first iPhone models probably remember how inconvenient it was to always have to transfer files between their computer/laptop and iPhone through a cable connection, and iTunes' wonky interface. Thankfully, nowadays there is no need for that – the AirDrop feature allows users to transfer files over Bluetooth or WiFi, eliminating the need for a cable connection.
Using AIrDrop is incredibly simple – find the file on your device, use the context menu to select Share -> AirDrop. You will be prompted to select the device where you want to transfer the file to – if it is your first time doing this, then you might need to enter an extra code in order to pair the two devices. Having issues with AirDrop? Then try troubleshooting the app by following our tips at AirDrop Not Working on Mac.
We strongly recommend using AirDrop when transferring files between Apple devices, since it will result in fast transfers, with no loss of quality. For comparison, trying to transfer files via email or 3rd-party services may result in the compression of video, audio, and other media.
Where Are AirDrop Files Stored?
When you transfer a file to your Mac, it will immediately be transferred to the default folder used for this purpose. However, do you know where that is? Surprisingly, the folder is not called AirDrop or anything like that, and some users have trouble finding it. If you also cannot find AirDrop files, then here is what you need to do:
- Go to Applications -> Finder.
- Select the Go -> Downloads option from the top bar.
- All AirDrop files are stored in the Downloads folder on your Mac.
Is it Possible to Change the Default AirDrop Folder?
Unfortunately, the answer is 'No.' AirDrop is a key part of the Mac operating system, and the Apple engineers have limited the settings that AirDrop users have access to. Currently, there is no way to replace the default directory that AirDrop uses to save files.
