If implemented, AirDrop PIN Pairing would represent a major privacy update, following previous measures like NameDrop in iOS 18 and the 10‑minute 'Everyone' window added in iOS 16.2.

Apple’s iOS 26.2 beta hints at a new AirDrop security feature called AirDrop PIN Pairing, which would require a PIN to initiate file transfers.

Code references label the feature as AirDropPrivacyImprovements, noting the PIN could keep AirDrop pairing active for up to 30 days while nearby.

The first iOS 26.2 beta for developers suggests Apple is testing a privacy feature that would require PIN entry to start AirDrop transfers.

The push for this change is tied to EU DMA requirements, which encourage Apple to improve interoperability and support third‑party solutions beyond AirDrop and AirPlay.

This PIN‑based authentication would supplement existing modes to enhance safety in public settings.

Beyond PINs, Apple is reportedly exploring other iOS 26.2 features, including expanding Live Translation in Europe and tweaks to Liquid Glass, with a fuller reveal after beta testing.

AirDrop PIN Pairing would operate like device pairing, requiring a short numeric code to be confirmed by the sender before a transfer is established.

There is no enablement in beta 1 yet, and Apple typically rolls out features across multiple betas, leaving exact timing uncertain.

The current iOS 26.2 beta is a developer build, with a public beta expected soon and a broad release likely in December.

Existing AirDrop visibility options are Receiving Off, Contacts Only, and Everyone for 10 minutes; the new PIN feature would add a separate authentication step.

9to5Mac corroborates the PIN approach and outlines how this new functionality could integrate with the current AirDrop framework.