Enhanced AirDrop Sharing: Temporary One-Time Codes in iOS 26.2

Apple recently rolled out the third beta of iOS 26.2, just days after releasing the second beta. While not much has changed from the previous beta, there is a small surprise that could benefit AirDrop users.

AirDrop is a handy feature for sharing content with nearby Apple device users. However, it has its limitations, such as the need to have contacts listed or broadcast AirDrop to everyone, which can lead to unwanted interactions. To address this, iOS 26.2 may introduce a new option.

Earlier beta versions of iOS 26.2 hinted at the possibility of linking devices using a PIN code, allowing users to use AirDrop without the need for contact cards or broadcasting to everyone. This feature would create a temporary trust relationship for 30 days with devices shared with a one-time code.

Although not fully functional yet, the third beta of iOS 26.2 has laid the groundwork for this new feature. A new “Manage Known AirDrop Contacts” button has been added under General > AirDrop in the Settings app, indicating that users will automatically appear to contacts they’ve shared a one-time code with for 30 days.

It remains unclear how this feature will work exactly. The “Manage” button currently directs users to the “Other Known” list in the Contacts app, which could potentially include contacts shared via one-time AirDrop codes. However, there is no apparent way to generate these codes yet.

If implemented as described, this feature could be beneficial for users who frequently exchange files via AirDrop with acquaintances and colleagues without cluttering their contacts list.