Sharing contacts using iOS 17’s NameDrop feature is a straightforward process that builds upon the established AirDrop functionality. Despite its recent introduction, NameDrop streamlines the sharing of contact information on iPhones running iOS 17.1 or later, and Apple Watches with watchOS 10.1 or later (limited to newer models released within the last two years).
To initiate a NameDrop session, follow these simple steps
- Ensure Compatibility: Make sure that both devices, your iPhone and the recipient’s iPhone or compatible Apple Watch, are running iOS 17.1 or later. For Apple Watches, ensure it is a Series 7, second-generation Apple Watch SE, or Apple Watch Ultra, or newer models in these lineups.
- Unlock Your iPhone: NameDrop requires your iPhone to be unlocked. Authenticate using Face ID, Touch ID, or your passcode before proceeding.
- Activate NameDrop: Hold your iPhone close to the other person’s device. The devices will recognize each other and prompt the initiation of the NameDrop session.
- Confirm Sharing: Once prompted, confirm that you want to share your contact information. This additional step ensures that no information is shared without your explicit consent.
- Automatic Exchange: Once both parties confirm, NameDrop will automatically exchange the contact information. The process is swift and efficient.
It’s important to note that NameDrop is designed to share new contact information only. It does not update existing contact cards, adding a layer of security and preventing unintentional data overwrites.
Contrary to some concerns raised after the release of iOS 17.1, NameDrop is a secure feature. The authentication requirement ensures that you, as the user, have control over the information being shared. NameDrop won’t operate unless your iPhone is unlocked, and each sharing action requires your explicit confirmation.
How to Share contacts with NameDrop
Sharing contacts with NameDrop is a user-friendly process that requires a few simple steps. Follow these instructions to seamlessly share contact information using NameDrop on iOS 17:
Step 1: Enable NameDrop and AirDrop Proximity Sharing
Ensure that NameDrop and AirDrop proximity sharing are enabled by navigating to the Settings app. Go to General > AirDrop, and make sure that “Bringing Devices Together” is toggled on. This setting is usually enabled by default.
Step 2: Initiate Proximity Sharing
Hold your iPhone within a few centimeters of the recipient’s iPhone or Apple Watch. After a moment, both devices should display a full-screen view of each person’s contact card. If this doesn’t happen, confirm that the other person also has the “Bringing Devices Together” setting enabled.
Step 3: Review and Customize Shared Information
Below your name, a summary of the information to be shared will be displayed. By default, this includes your phone number. However, you can choose to share additional fields, such as email or physical address, by selecting the desired fields. Once you’re satisfied, tap “Done.”
Step 4: Share or Receive Only
When ready to proceed, tap “Share” to share your contact information with the other person. Alternatively, if you only want to receive their contact card without sharing your own, choose “Receive Only.”
Step 5: Canceling the NameDrop Session
If you change your mind and decide not to share contact information, you can cancel the NameDrop session. Move your iPhone away from the other person’s device, swipe up to return to the home screen, or press the side button to lock your device. Any of these actions will effectively cancel the NameDrop session.
These straightforward steps make NameDrop a convenient and secure way to share contact information between iOS 17 devices.
How to share contacts from an Apple Watch with NameDrop
Sharing contacts from your Apple Watch using NameDrop is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to initiate a NameDrop session and share contact information with another compatible Apple Watch or iPhone:
Step 1: Open the Contacts App
Open the Contacts app on your Apple Watch. You can do this by navigating to the app grid and locating the Contacts icon.
Step 2: Select Your Picture
In the top-right corner of the Contacts app, select your picture. This action will lead you to the options related to your contact information.
Step 3: Choose Share
Within your contact information options, choose the “Share” option. This will initiate the NameDrop sharing process.
Step 4: Place Your Apple Watch Near Another Device
Position your Apple Watch in close proximity to another compatible Apple Watch or iPhone. Follow the on-screen illustration to ensure the devices are properly aligned.
Step 5: Wait for NameDrop to Appear
Allow some time for NameDrop to appear on both devices. This may take a few seconds as the devices establish a connection.
Step 6: Choose Share or Receive Only
Once NameDrop appears on both devices, you have the option to choose “Share” if you want to share your contact information with the other person. Alternatively, select “Receive Only” if you only wish to receive the other person’s contact card without sharing your own.
How to share contacts in iOS 17 the old-fashioned way
Sharing contacts in iOS 17 using traditional methods offers flexibility, allowing users to share information with older devices or through various channels. Here’s how to manually share contact information:
Step 1: Open the Contacts App
Launch the Contacts app on your iPhone. Alternatively, you can open the Phone app and select the Contacts button at the bottom.
Step 2: Select Your Contact
Your “My Card” contact information, designated as the “Me” card in the Contacts app, should be displayed at the top. You can choose to share your own details or locate another contact you want to share.
Step 3: Access Share Options
Scroll down to the bottom of the contact screen and choose “Share Contact.”
Step 4: Choose Fields to Include
On the Share Contact screen, you can select the specific fields you want to include in the shared information. By default, this includes first and last name, job title, phone numbers, email addresses, and social media handles. Deselect any items you don’t want to share and choose additional fields if needed. You can also opt to “Select All Fields” at the bottom to share the entire card.
Step 5: Confirm and Complete Selections
Once you’ve made your selections, tap “Done” in the top-right corner to confirm your choices.
Step 6: Choose Sharing Method
The standard iOS share sheet will appear. Choose a sharing method, such as AirDrop, Messages, Mail, or a third-party app. Follow the instructions for the selected method to send out the contact information.
By following these steps, users can share contact information in a more traditional manner, providing a versatile option for communication with devices running older iOS versions or through various communication channels.
