Introduced with the September launch of iOS 17, Apple’s NameDrop feature comes up with a new way of sharing your contact information with another iPhone user. Using proximity-based technology, NameDrop enables iPhone users to exchange their contact cards by simply bringing their devices close together, or docking, for our space travel enthusiasts. While NameDrop is cool in a way, it is hardly innovative, as it just screams “INFRARED PORT” and you remember what they have taken from you. Nevertheless, NameDrop also raised certain concerns about privacy and unwanted data sharing. If you’re unsure about this feature and don’t want to trigger it by accident, stay tuned for today’s blog post. In this article, we’ll give you a quick tutorial on how to disable NameDrop on your iPhone, should you wish to do so.
What is NameDrop?
The NameDrop feature is a part of Apple’s newest iOS 17 software update. It allows users to share their contact information with others simply by bringing their iPhones close together. When two iPhones with this feature enabled come into close proximity, NameDrop is activated, allowing for the exchange of contact cards between the two devices. Oh, and it only works if you don’t have a contact of another person, so new contacts only.
The Safety Aspect of NameDrop
Though the NameDrop feature is designed with user convenience in mind, it does raise legitimate privacy concerns. As it is automatically enabled on devices running iOS 17, it’s easy for users to unintentionally share their contact information. Although the NameDrop feature requires physical proximity to function, there is still the potential for accidental or unwanted data sharing, especially in crowded public spaces.
However, it’s important to understand that the NameDrop feature is not inherently unsafe. Apple has implemented safeguards to protect users’ privacy. For instance, users have the option to decide which pieces of information are shared when using NameDrop and can choose whether to share their info, receive only, or disable the feature entirely.
This feature won’t be met too kindly by Persona 5 Strikers fan base as well, hehe.
How Does NameDrop Work on iOS 17?
NameDrop uses a combination of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi signals to detect the proximity of another iPhone with the same feature enabled. Once the devices are close enough, each device displays the owner’s contact card. Users then have the option to either share their own details, receive the other person’s details, or both.
How to Turn Off NameDrop on iOS 17
If you’re feeling some type of way about NameDrop, there’s a simple way of disabling it. There’s no foul in prioritizing privacy over innovativeness. Here’s how you turn off NameDrop on your iPhone:
- First, open the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Scroll down and tap on General.
- In the General settings, select AirDrop.
- You will see an option labeled Bringing Devices Together. Toggle this setting off.
By following these easy steps, you can effectively disable the NameDrop feature. Your device will no longer initiate or respond to NameDrop prompts, even when in close proximity to another iPhone.
Though the NameDrop feature is an innovative addition to the Apple ecosystem, it is not for everyone. The potential for unwanted data sharing is a legitimate concern for many users. Thankfully, Apple has provided an easy way to disable this feature for those who prefer to manually manage their contact information exchange. As always, when it comes to technology and privacy, it’s essential to stay informed and make the choices that best suit your comfort level and lifestyle.
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- Arsène MaliceArsène is a Kyiv-based staff writer for ZoogVPN, covering everything tech-related from VPN news and social media trends to cybersport events and geek culture. He’s written for several music magazines, and crypto and tech-oriented websites. He tries to keep his finger on the media’s pulse with varying success. You can catch him djing, playing volleyball, and rage-quitting a ranked game in League of Legends.
