How to AirDrop Messages from iPhone to iPhone | 3 Working Methods

Why can't you directly AirDrop Messages?

Looking to AirDrop messages from iPhone to iPhone? You've probably discovered that while AirDrop works great for photos and files, it doesn't support message transfers. Here's the simple reason: Apple's Messages app uses special security protection that prevents direct sharing through AirDrop.

But here's the good news - we've found three reliable ways to transfer your messages between iPhones. These methods are just as effective and might even be better than AirDrop for moving your conversations.

How to Transfer Messages from iPhone to iPhone - 3 Top Ways

Whether you're setting up a new iPhone or need to share important conversations, these methods have you covered. Each approach works differently, so you can choose what fits your situation best.

Way 1. Sync Messages from iPhone to iPhone via iCloud

iCloud sync automatically keeps your messages updated across all your Apple devices. It's perfect when you want your messages available everywhere.

Step 1. Connect both iPhones to Wi-Fi and plug them into power.

Step 2. On your old iPhone, go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud.

Step 3. Find Messages and turn on the switch.

Step 4. Repeat on your new iPhone and wait for sync to complete.

   

★Tip:

   

Keep devices connected to power until sync finishes - this can take a while if you have many messages.

Way 2. AirDrop iMessages from iPhone to iPhone

If you mainly use iMessage (the blue bubble messages), this method keeps your iMessage conversations in sync.

Step 1. Open Settings app > Go to Messages > Turn on iMessage.

Step 2. Click the Send & Receive option > Ensure both phones use the same Apple ID.

Step 3. Wait for iMessages to sync.

⚠ Limitations: iCloud can synchronize normally only under a stable network condition and requires sufficient power. Any disruption may impact recovery, and recovery may never be possible. 

Way 3. Best Alternative Way to AirDrop Messages from iPhone to iPhone

A professional iOS data transfer tool, FoneTool, gives you the most flexibility - choose exactly which messages to transfer, when to transfer them, and where they go. 

Learn how to AirDrop messages from iPhone to iPhone with FoneTool. 

Step 1. Connect your old iPhone to computer and open FoneTool.

Step 2. Move to Phone Backup > Choose Selective Backup >  Check Messages to transfer > Tap OK.

Step 3. Tap Backup Storage Path to pick where to save messages > Click Start Backup.

Step 4. Connect new iPhone to PC > My Backups > Click Restore to transfer the messages.

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★Tip:

   

FoneTool's iPhone to iPhone Transfer function helps you send messages and other files from iPhone to new iPhone with one click. 

Wireless Transfer: AirDrop Files from iPhone to iPhone/iPad/Android

Want to go completely wireless? The FoneTool app lets you airdrop from iPhone to iPhone/iPad/Android phones without cables.You can get FoneTool from the App Store for both your iPhone and Android device (FoneTool for Android).

How to AirDrop iOS to iOS (iPhone/iPad)

Step 1. Install FoneTool from the App Store on both iPhones > Allow WiFi permissions.

Step 2. Tap Connect Device and select your target iPhone from the list.

Step 3. Select File Transfer > Choose files > Tap Send.

How to Airdrop from iPhone to Android

Step 1. Install FoneTool on both your iPhone and Android device.

Step 2. On iPhone: Tap Connect to Android and scan the QR code displayed on your Android

Step 3. On iPhone: Select messages and contacts you want to transfer.

Step 4. On Android:Confirm the transfer and wait for completion.

More Solutions of Cross-Platform Sharing

While AirDrop excels within the Apple ecosystem, there are effective ways to share content across different devices and platforms.

AirDrop from iPhone to iPad

Extend your AirDrop capabilities to iPad with a specialized guide. Learn the intricacies of sending files seamlessly between your iPhone and iPad.

Step 1. Open messages on iPhone and use the share button.

Step 2. Select AirDrop and choose your iPad.

Step 3. Accept transfer on iPad to receive messages.

AirDrop from iPhone to Mac

Airdrop enables seamless file transfer between your iPhone and Mac.

Step 1. Similar to iPad process, select Mac as the destination.

Step 2. Accept AirDrop request on Mac.

Step 3. Messages appear in appropriate applications.

AirDrop from iPhone to Non-Apple Devices

While AirDrop only works within Apple's ecosystem, FoneTool bridges the gap between iOS and Android devices, maintaining message integrity during cross-platform transfers. You may want to learn: How to Use FoneTool to Airdrop from iPhone to Android.

FAQs on iPhone to iPhone Transfer

Conclusion

While AirDrop doesn't support direct message transfers, these three methods effectively solve how to AirDrop messages from iPhone to iPhone. Whether you choose iCloud sync for automatic backup or FoneTool for selective control, you can successfully transfer messages between iPhones. For the most reliable message transfer experience, we recommend FoneTool - it ensures your important conversations move safely to your new device.