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Yes—you can send files from an iPhone to a Windows PC with LocalSend, but it is not AirDrop. LocalSend is a free, open-source app that transfers files or messages between devices over a mutually reachable local network. Install it on both devices, choose the content and destination, then receive the transfer on the PC. No account, internet connection, or third-party transfer server is required.
Can you AirDrop from an iPhone to Windows?
Not with Apple’s AirDrop: AirDrop is not the iPhone-to-Windows transfer method described here. LocalSend is a separate cross-platform alternative. Its project lists support for iOS and Windows, with minimum versions of iOS 13 and Windows 10; sharing content from other apps on iOS requires iOS 14 or later. See the LocalSend project README for current platform details.
Unlike a cloud-storage workflow, LocalSend sends data directly over the local network. Both devices must be able to communicate with each other on that network, but they do not need internet access for the transfer. The app can send files and messages. The project describes the app as requiring no account or login and using no third-party server for transfers. Its homepage summarizes this as “No account, no login, no servers.”
What you need before sending
- An iPhone running iOS 13 or later, and a Windows PC running Windows 10 or later. To share from other apps on iPhone, the project lists iOS 14 or later as the requirement.
- LocalSend installed and open on both devices.
- A local network that allows the iPhone and PC to communicate with one another. They need not have an active internet connection.
- On the receiving device, a willingness to accept the transfer. Confirm the device name before accepting files, especially on a shared network.
How to install LocalSend and send a file
- Install LocalSend on the iPhone. Use the App Store link from the official project repository, which surfaces the project’s distribution options.
- Install LocalSend on Windows. Use the project’s download page or an installation option linked by the official repository. The README lists Winget, Scoop, Chocolatey, and official Windows installers. It recommends store or package-manager installation because the app does not have an auto-update feature. Availability can change, so follow the current links from the project rather than relying on an old download address.
- Open LocalSend on both devices. Connect the iPhone and PC to a local network that permits device-to-device communication. Launch the app on each; an account or login is not needed.
- Choose what to send on the iPhone. Select the files or text in LocalSend, or use the iOS share option from another app if supported by your iOS version.
- Select the Windows PC as the destination. Check the displayed device identity before sending. On the Windows PC, accept or receive the incoming transfer.
- Find the received item on the PC. LocalSend’s FAQ says received files go to Downloads by default and that the destination can be changed in settings. Check the receiving device’s app settings if the file is not there.
Why LocalSend may not find your iPhone or PC
The project says LocalSend should work out of the box in most cases. When a device does not appear or a transfer stalls, check the network and firewall before reinstalling the app.
#1 Best Overall
- 【Strong Adsorption】The inspiration of the silicone phone suction case comes from the adhesive force of the octopus. Each suction cup phone mount is 3.15 inches long and 2.17 inches wide, with 24 independent suction cups providing a stronger and more stable suction force, so you don't have to worry about your phone falling during use.
- 【Back of Phone Suction Grip】Remove the adhesive film on the phone suction cup and stick it on the phone case. You can then fix the phone on any smooth surface, which is very convenient. (The phone suction cup cannot be removed and reused after being attached to the phone case. It is recommended to attach it to a regular phone case, not a valuable one.)
- 【Widely Used】Our non-slip silicone phone sticky grip mount attaches to almost any flat phone case and make it compatible with common mobile phones such as iPhone and Android.You can shoot, watch videos or video calls in the kitchen, gym, dance studio, bathroom and other places.
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- 【Note】You can fix the phone suction cup on a smooth surface such as a mirror or glass. If necessary, wipe the suction cup with a damp cloth to obtain stronger suction. Before releasing your hand, make sure the phone is firmly fixed. (Not applicable to rough walls, wooden surfaces, and other uneven surfaces)
Confirm the network allows local device communication
Both devices need to be on a network that permits them to reach each other. Being connected to the same Wi-Fi name is not enough if the router or access point blocks communication between clients. Guest networks commonly use AP isolation; the project README identifies this setting as a possible cause. If you control the network, disable AP isolation for the devices that need to communicate, or use a network without that restriction.
Check Windows Firewall rules
Review the Windows firewall prompt shown when LocalSend first runs, or the firewall rules for the app. The project documents the following traffic: incoming TCP and UDP on port 53317, and outgoing TCP and UDP traffic on any port. Allow the documented LocalSend traffic on the network profile you use; do not turn off the firewall or broadly permit unrelated traffic.
Rank #2
- SUPERIOR COMFORT — Unlike traditional circular ear buds, the design of EarPods is defined by the geometry of the ear. Which makes them more comfortable for more people than any other ear bud–style headphones.
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Retry after correcting the restriction
Once local communication and the relevant firewall rules are in place, leave LocalSend open on both devices and try discovery and sending again. If the devices still do not appear, check whether the router has another client-isolation setting or whether a managed network administrator blocks peer-to-peer traffic.
The Tool Desk
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LocalSend says transfers use HTTPS encryption, and its README says each device generates its own TLS/SSL certificate. The app also offers optional PIN verification. These are descriptions of the project’s documented design, not an independent security audit or a guarantee that every device, operating system, or network is secure. For a sensitive transfer, enable PIN verification if appropriate and confirm the recipient before accepting.
Rank #3
- Secure Hold: Our PopSockets adhesive phone grip gives your cell phone a secure, comfortable hold in hand to help prevent drops while texting, taking photos, or scrolling on the go. Designed to stick firmly to most phone cases and devices.
- Hands-Free Made Easy: Easily turn your PopSocket into a phone stand to prop up your phone anywhere, perfect for watching videos, video calls, or following recipes. A must-have phone holder that keeps your device secure and ready for anything.
- Compatibility: Works with all phones, tablets, and Kindles. Sticks best to smooth, hard plastic cases and may not adhere to silicone or textured cases. Easily swap your PopTop to change up your style.
- Black PopSockets: Simple, refined, and endlessly versatile. A timeless essential for any phone.
- Travel Must-Have for People On the Go: A must-have travel accessory for flights, flying, airports, air travel, airplanes, planes, international trips, cruises, and long travel days. Key gadget for your airport haul, travel accessories and must-haves.
The project’s privacy policy, last updated May 8, 2024, says LocalSend does not collect, store, process, or use personal or non-personal data through the app. The policy also says operating systems, device manufacturers, and other apps may collect data independently. That is the project’s stated position about LocalSend, not a claim that no data is handled elsewhere on the iPhone, Windows PC, or network.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.LocalSend or AirDrop: which fits your situation?
| Consideration | LocalSend | AirDrop |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone-to-Windows support | Yes. The project lists iOS and Windows support. | Not the iPhone-to-Windows transfer option described here. |
| Network requirement | Devices must be mutually reachable on a local network; internet access is not required. | Not established by the LocalSend sources cited here. |
| Account, internet, or transfer server | The project says no account, internet connection, or third-party server is required for transfers. | Not established by the LocalSend sources cited here. |
| Setup and troubleshooting | Install on both devices. Discovery can be blocked by firewall rules or router AP isolation. | Not established by the LocalSend sources cited here. |
| Security and privacy evidence | The project documents HTTPS transfers, optional PIN verification, and a privacy policy; these are not an independent audit. | Not assessed by the LocalSend sources cited here. |
| Transfer-speed comparison | No independent, controlled comparison with AirDrop is established by the cited project sources. | No independent, controlled comparison with LocalSend is established by the cited project sources. |
Choose LocalSend when you need to move files between iPhone and Windows over a local network and are comfortable installing an app on both devices. It is a practical cross-platform route, not a Windows version of AirDrop and not a cloud backup service.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 【PKYAA Double Sided Silicone Suction Phone Case Mount】PKYAA With Double Sided 40 Strong and Reliable individual suction cups, PKYAA provides a thicken and upgraded universal silicon suction mount for your phone.
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- 【Strong Grip on the Smooth Surface】You can easily hang your phone anywhere with a smooth surface. All you do is you clean off your phone and smooth surface. It is STURDY and it not only sticks to mirrors, it also sticks to windows, it sticks to refrigerators, tiles and other clean, flat surfaces.
- 【Press Down Firmly Every 30 Minutes】Use your palm or fingers to press the phone down firmly and check it's secure before letting go. Apply even pressure for a few seconds to allow the suction cup to adhere properly. To maintain the grip and prevent accidental falls, it's a good practice to periodically reapply pressure to the suction cup.
Rank #4
- [360 ° Flexible Rotation Design] Comes with a rotatable lanyard ring that supports 360 ° free rotation, effectively solving the problem of twisted and tangled lanyards
- [Wide compatibility] The ultra-thin 0.02-inch design does not block the charging port at all, and both wired and wireless charging can be used directly without removing the pad. Compatible with most smartphones such as iPhone, compatible with various wristbands, lanyards, crossbody straps, and keychains
- [Durable and Portable Material] Premium rust-resistant stainless steel material with good flexibility, which not only avoids scratching the phone case, but also has excellent anti rust and anti fading performance
- [Multi scenario Practical] Paired with a lanyard or wristband, hands-free use can be achieved. The phone is within reach and not easily dropped, ideal for daily commuting and outdoor activities. Suitable for full coverage phone cases, does not support half coverage phone cases
- [Quality Service] If you find any damage or other issues with the product upon receipt, please contact us immediately. We will handle it quickly
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
