iOS 26.2 Launches Innovative ‘AirDrop Codes’ Function: Understanding Its Operation

### iOS 26.2 Launches AirDrop Codes: A Fresh Approach to Secure Sharing

iOS 26.2 has been officially released, introducing a variety of new features, including a noteworthy upgrade to AirDrop called “AirDrop codes.” This innovative feature is designed to enhance the security and ease of sharing files, images, and more with others.

#### What Are AirDrop Codes?

AirDrop has long been a fundamental feature for iPhone users, facilitating quick and convenient sharing between devices. With the rollout of AirDrop codes in iOS 26.2, Apple introduces an additional layer of verification for users connecting with unfamiliar contacts. Per Apple’s release notes, AirDrop codes generate a unique code on the recipient’s device that the sender is required to input to finalize the transfer. This guarantees that only legitimate users can share files, boosting the overall security of the function.

#### Setting Up AirDrop

When configuring AirDrop on your iPhone, users have typically encountered three choices:

1. **Receiving Off**
2. **Contacts Only**
3. **Everyone for 10 Minutes**

The introduction of AirDrop codes effectively adds a fourth choice. If you wish to exchange files with someone not listed in your contacts, you can grant temporary access to each other using a one-time code. Once the sender inputs this code, both devices will recognize each other as AirDrop options for the following 30 days.

#### Managing AirDrop Connections

Users can handle their AirDrop connections via the Settings menu by going to **Settings ⇾ General ⇾ AirDrop**. Apple mentions that users will automatically be visible to each other for 30 days post sharing a one-time code. This capability is particularly beneficial for those who often share files with acquaintances without intending to permanently store them in their contacts.

#### Benefits of AirDrop Codes

The launch of AirDrop codes addresses certain limitations of the existing settings. The “Everyone for 10 Minutes” option significantly compromises security, while “Contacts Only” can be inconvenient due to the effort involved in creating a new contact. AirDrop codes offer a swift, simple, and secure method of sharing files, making it a more effective choice for users needing to transfer files without the complications of contact management.

#### Conclusion

With the debut of iOS 26.2, AirDrop codes signify a major advancement in the secure and convenient sharing of files by users. This new feature not only improves the user experience but also mitigates security issues related to sharing files with unknown contacts. As users become accustomed to this new capability, it will be intriguing to observe how often they take advantage of AirDrop codes for their sharing requirements.

Apple Releases iOS 18.7.3 Update for iPhone: Enhancements and New Features

Apple today has introduced two fresh software updates for the iPhone. In addition to the rollout of iOS 26.2, the firm has also delivered iOS 18.7.3 for those who have not yet transitioned to iOS 26.

### iOS 18.7.3 Arrives with ‘Significant Security Updates’ That Are Advised for Everyone

Recently, Apple designated iOS 26.1 as the standard update for iPhone users. Consequently, when users access the Software Update area in Settings, iOS 26 is the version prominently displayed. Nonetheless, users do have the choice to remain on iOS 18, and for those opting to do so, Apple has issued a new update today.

iOS 18.7.3 is now accessible for iPhone, alongside iPadOS 18.7.3 for iPad. Below are the release notes:

> This update offers significant security updates and is recommended for all users.

For details on the security features of Apple software updates, please check [Apple’s security notes website](https://support.apple.com/100100).

At the time of this article’s publication, the particular security updates have not been posted on Apple’s security notes website. However, they are expected to be available there shortly.

Since the release notes from Apple indicate no additional modifications, it is probable that iOS 18 users won’t observe any other changes in this update. Nevertheless, it is still advised for prompt installation to reap the security advantages.

Generally, when Apple identifies security weaknesses and resolves them, updates are provided not only in the latest OS iteration but also in the previous year’s release. This occurred with iOS 18.7.2 last month, and the same trend is evident in iOS 18.7.3.

Are you still utilizing iOS 18 on your iPhone? What is preventing you from moving to iOS 26? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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macOS Tahoe 26.2 Launch: Major New Features and Enhancements

After several weeks of beta testing, macOS Tahoe 26.2 is now being distributed to the general public. Here’s a summary of the new features.

## New Edge Light Feature

macOS Tahoe 26.2 includes an innovative Edge Light feature, which introduces a virtual ring light on the Mac’s display during video calls. It is also compatible with online streaming platforms, enabling users to adjust the light’s intensity, width, and temperature.

When the cursor is hovered over the ring light, that area of the effect is dimmed, allowing users to quickly see what lies beneath it. This feature is exclusive to Mac models powered by Apple Silicon, and it includes an auto-enable option for Macs released after 2024 when in dim lighting conditions.

## New Low-Latency Cluster Feature

This update brings a new low-latency capability allowing users to link multiple Macs via Thunderbolt 5. Additionally, full MLX access is now available for M5 Macs, streamlining AI development and usage.

Many perceive this as another sign of the decline of the Mac Pro. Regardless, macOS Tahoe 26.2 enhances the Mac’s capabilities for professional users, although the feature might be too specialized for a significant portion of them.

## General Improvements

As is customary, Apple is addressing bugs and enhancing performance issues from the last version, along with implementing cross-platform upgrades, including the “Urgent” reminders feature, which is also being introduced today on iOS 26.2.

This feature allows users to activate an “Urgent” toggle when creating a reminder, which subsequently triggers the standard system alarm.

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