Does your iPhone automatically buzz and prompt you to share your contact card or display an “Airdrop:” or “You’re now connected” message with a stranger’s name when your iPhone might brush up against other people in a crowded environment? That’s likely NameDrop, the new iOS 17 feature designed for easy contact sharing when nearby, but it can sometimes trigger accidentally in crowded places. Here’s why your iPhone keeps connecting to other nearby iPhones and how to stop it.
Why does your iPhone randomly connect to other iPhones?
Namedrop lets you quickly share your contact cards or files with someone nearby by bumping your iPhone together. It’s handy when you want to swap numbers or photos with a friend, but it can lead to unexpected connections in crowded places.
Here’s how it works: Namedrop uses Bluetooth and Ultra-Wideband (UWB) To find nearby iPhones. If two iPhones have it turned on and are in close proximity, they will vibrate and receive a notification to share information. This can happen inadvertently, especially in crowded trains.
If you see that notification on your iPhone, you might worry that strangers can access your contact details just by touching their iPhone to you. But the Pennsylvania police were caught off guard When this feature was introduced.
Do not worry. This feature is designed with privacy in mind. For NameDrop to work, both iPhones need to be unlocked, and you need to approve any information sharing.
Disable the NameDrop feature to prevent it
In crowded places like subways, clubs, concerts, festivals, or busy shopping centers, your iPhone is more likely to come into contact with other people, increasing the chance of accidentally connecting and triggering a NameDrop. If you prefer to avoid this, here’s how you can disable namedrop:
- open settings on your iPhone.
- Scroll down and tap General.
- Next, select Airdrop.
- Toggle off Bringing devices together under Start sharing via.
You can turn AirDrop off or change it further Only contacts. Your iPhone will no longer connect to other iPhones, even when brought close to the top of them.
or accept convenience
While accidental triggers in crowded places can be annoying, you can use Namedrop to quickly exchange contact information at professional networking events or when meeting new friends. It also helps two iPhones connect quickly to share photos and files when AirDrop isn’t working or the devices can’t be found.
When sharing a contact card it uses your contact poster, so customize it with a nice photo to make a good impression. Check out our guide to personalizing your contact poster on iOS 17.