Title: Misinformation Spreading About Apple’s NameDrop Feature
Apple’s recent introduction of the NameDrop feature in iOS 17.1 and watchOS 10.1 has led to misinformation being spread by news organizations and police departments, causing confusion among users about how the feature functions.
The NameDrop feature is designed to allow users to exchange contact information by placing Apple devices near one another, but sharing contact information is only done with explicit user permission. Despite this, warnings about NameDrop have been circulating, with some police departments incorrectly suggesting that contact information can be shared “just by bringing your phones close together.”
The message from the City of Chester Police Department in Ohio, for example, advised users to disable the NameDrop feature, but the way the feature functions is more nuanced than simply bringing two iPhones near each other.
NameDrop works when two iPhones running iOS 17.1 or an iPhone with iOS 17.1 and an Apple Watch running watchOS 10.1 are placed almost touching each other. When both devices are unlocked, a pop-up prompts users to share contact information or an image. However, contact information is not shared automatically, and it is a user-initiated process that requires both people exchanging information to accept the transfer.
Despite these facts, multiple police departments and local news organizations have been spreading misinformation about NameDrop, causing confusion and concern among users. The Noble County Sheriff’s Office in Ohio and the Dewey Police Department in Pennsylvania, for example, shared incorrect information about NameDrop, which was widely shared on social media.
After facing criticism, some police departments clarified that their intent was to engage parents with their children about technology, rather than fear-mongering. Similarly, local news stories have also contributed to the misinformation, with KDKA-TV in Pittsburgh interviewing individuals who suggested that NameDrop happens automatically.
In reality, NameDrop has the potential to be more irritating than dangerous, as it could activate when phones are next to each other and unlocked in situations like a dinner or meeting. However, given the negative feedback and confusion, Apple may consider turning off NameDrop by default in a future update.
For now, users who want to disable NameDrop can do so by navigating to the Settings app, going to AirDrop, and turning off “Bringing Devices Together.” It is important for users to be well-informed about new technology features and updates to avoid falling victim to misinformation.