NameDrop on iPhone: The faster way to share your contact card

Author: Tech Advisory

NameDrop makes it easy to trade contact details by holding two compatible Apple devices close together. Here’s how the feature works, what information it shares, and how to control it.

What is NameDrop?

NameDrop is part of Apple’s AirDrop system and is specifically designed for sharing contact information between iPhones and supported Apple Watch models. It uses your personal contact card and Contact Poster to facilitate the exchange.

While the feature is straightforward, tweaking a few settings can make a big difference. 

What to check before using NameDrop

Before trying NameDrop, make sure both devices are unlocked and updated to at least iOS 17.1 or watchOS 10.1. On Apple Watch, NameDrop is available on the Apple Watch SE (2nd generation), Apple Watch Series 7 and later, and all Apple Watch Ultra models.

Since NameDrop uses proximity features to work, both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi need to be turned on. The good news is that you don’t need to navigate through menus each time you want to use it; NameDrop is on by default unless you’ve turned off the Bring Devices Together setting.

How to use NameDrop on iPhone

Once both iPhones are ready, using NameDrop takes only a few seconds. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Unlock your iPhone and have the other person unlock theirs.
2. Hold the top edge of your iPhone near the top of the other person’s iPhone.
3. An animation will play, and the NameDrop screen will appear.
4. Select whether to share your information or only receive the other person’s contact details.
5. Keep the devices nearby until the exchange is complete.

When the NameDrop screen appears, you’ll see your Contact Poster, name, and chosen contact details. You remain in control of the exchange, so your information isn’t shared automatically just because the phones are near each other. You still need to approve the transfer.

NameDrop is useful for everyday situations such as work meetings, networking events, or casual introductions, allowing you and the other person to exchange information almost instantly without manually creating new contacts.

How to use NameDrop on Apple Watch

NameDrop also works on Apple Watch, which is handy when your iPhone isn’t easily accessible. The process is similar, though less flashy than the iPhone version.

To use NameDrop between an Apple Watch and an iPhone:

1. Verify that both devices are unlocked and updated.
2. Hold the Apple Watch display near the top edge of the other person’s iPhone.
3. Wait for the NameDrop prompt to appear.
4. Choose whether to continue sharing or only receive contact details.
5. Hold the devices near each other until the transfer is complete.

To use NameDrop between two Apple Watches:

1. Open the Contacts app on Apple Watch.
2. Tap your picture or contact card.
3. Select Share.
4. Bring the two Apple Watches close together.
5. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the exchange.

NameDrop on Apple Watch can feel a little more compact because of the smaller screen, but it’s still a convenient option when you don’t want to pull out your iPhone.

How to pick what NameDrop shares

You don’t have to share every phone number or email address from your contact card when using NameDrop. You can select exactly which details to send before finalizing the transfer.

Customize what you share by taking these steps:

1. Initiate a NameDrop exchange.
2. On the sharing screen, you will see the phone number or email address set to be shared. Tap the small disclosure button next to your contact information.
3. Pick the specific phone number or email address you wish to share.
4. Tap Share to complete the exchange.

This feature is great for keeping your personal and professional contacts separate. For example, at a conference, you can easily share your business email without revealing your personal phone number.

NameDrop will share your name, your chosen contact details (phone or email), and your Contact Poster. It does not send your entire contact card, so private information like your home address, birthday, or other notes remains unshared.

How to update your Contact Poster

Before using NameDrop, it’s wise to review the information on your personal contact card, as this is what others will see. Your Contact Poster displays your photo, name, and other details when you call someone or share your contact information.

Here’s how to review and update your Contact Poster:

1. Open the Contacts app on your iPhone.
2. Tap My Card at the top of the list.
3. Select Edit in the top-right corner.
4. Tap your contact photo or poster to customize it with a new photo or style.
5. Verify that your name, phone numbers, and email addresses are accurate.
6. Tap Done to save your changes.

Why isn’t NameDrop working?

If NameDrop fails to launch, it’s typically because one of the required settings is not enabled. Check that both iPhones are unlocked, awake, and in close proximity. You should also ensure that both devices are running a supported version of iOS or watchOS and that Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are turned on.

It can also help to initiate the transfer from the Lock Screen or Home Screen. If one of the iPhones is displaying a photo, link, or media file, it might default to AirDrop or another sharing feature instead. To resolve this, simply lock and unlock the device, then try again from a neutral screen.

How do I turn off NameDrop?

If you prefer to disable proximity sharing, you can turn off NameDrop in your settings. Open the Settings app, tap General, then AirDrop, and turn off the Bringing Devices Together option. According to Apple, this will disable NameDrop and similar proximity features without affecting your standard AirDrop settings.

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