La next update Apple's new feature is designed for one-off exchanges, and here's what the latest beta reveals: iOS 26.2 will allow you to share via AirDrop with people who are not in your contacts. using temporary codes. A practical approach for work, study, or event situations where creating a contact isn't worthwhile.
What changes with AirDrop temporary codes in iOS 26.2
Far from opening the reception to just anyone, this alternative offers a middle ground that prioritizes control. Access is granted with a shareable code and can be revoked at any time.so that you don't leave your iPhone visible longer than necessary.
The new feature allows you to generate a unique code from your iPhone to establish an AirDrop connection with someone who is not in your contacts. That connection remains active for 30 days, a period in which both devices can meet to send and receive files without adding entries to the calendar.
How it works step by step
The process is simple and requires no special configurations. It starts and ends from the Settings app from iPhone:
- Open Settings > General > AirDrop and tap the option to create a code.
- Share the code with the other person; enter it on their iPhone to link both devices.
- From that moment on, you will be able to use AirDrop with each other during the active period.
If you change your mind, you can cut off access at any time. The revocation is immediate and your device will no longer be displayed. as available to that person.
Apple adds a dedicated panel to keep everything under control. In Settings > General > AirDrop, you'll see the Manage Known AirDrop Contacts section, where you'll find a list of accesses created with codes. From there you can delete individual accesses or completely restore them to start from scratch.
Prior to this version, AirDrop offered three reception settingsOff, Contacts only, and Everyone for 10 minutes. With temporary codes, A fourth option arrives that links two specific devices without opening you up to just anyone. and without the need to create a permanent contact.
Privacy and security with a European focus
The proposal seeks a balance between comfort and... No phone numbers or emails are shared.Visibility is limited to a specific, time-limited relationship, and you can always revoke access. In regulated environments in Europe and Spain, this solution may be a better fit than opening reception broadly.
The feature is already being tested in the iOS 3 beta 26.2 for developers. Everything points to it reaching the public with the final version of iOS 26.2Once the testing period is over. If you participate in beta programs, remember that there may be bugs inherent to a version under development.
These codes are especially useful in one-off exchanges: meetings, conferences, classes, workshops, or temporary collaborations. They prevent you from creating contacts that you were only going to use once. And they save you from opening AirDrop to everyone for 10 minutes, with the risk of receiving unwanted requests.