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Apple Tests PIN-Based AirDrop Pairing in iOS 26.2 Developer Beta

Developers report hidden code pointing to a month-long discoverability option for paired devices that is not yet available to users.

Overview

  • References to an “AirDropPINPairing” feature were found in iOS 26.2 beta 1 code, indicating a short PIN step to confirm transfers.
  • The option is disabled in the current developer build and could change or be removed before any public release.
  • Code reviewed by 9to5Mac suggests paired devices may remain visible to each other for up to 30 days.
  • The work extends Apple's efforts to prevent unwanted AirDrop requests beyond the existing Receiving Off, Contacts Only, and Everyone for 10 minutes settings.
  • iOS 26.2 is limited to developers for now, with a public beta expected soon and no confirmed rollout date.