Quick answer: If both iPhones are nearby, use AirDrop. If they are not, upload the file at Share Large Files Free (up to 20 GB per transfer) and send the download link by iMessage or any chat. The other person downloads the original file in Safari, with no compression and no account.
Built-in options, and their limits
AirDrop sends full-quality files between nearby Apple devices. Recent iOS versions can finish a transfer over the internet if you move apart, but it has to start with the phones close together.
iMessage can reduce the quality of photos and videos, especially when Low Quality Image Mode is on. Mail Drop in the Mail app handles attachments up to 5 GB, with links that expire after 30 days.
iCloud Shared Albums reduce photo and video resolution, so they are not ideal for originals.
Send any size from iPhone to iPhone with a link
- Open Share Large Files Free in Safari on the sending iPhone.
- Add files from Photo Library, or Browse to choose files from the Files app.
- Keep the screen on until the upload finishes, then copy the link.
- Paste the link into iMessage, WhatsApp or email.
- The other person taps the link and downloads the file in Safari. It goes to Files > Downloads, and they can save it to Photos with the Share button.
Things that trip people up
- The photo picker in Safari can hand over a converted copy rather than the original. For exact originals, save to the Files app first and choose Browse.
- ProRes and 4K 60 fps videos are very large. Make sure the recipient has enough free storage.
- Low Power Mode and locking the screen can pause or slow the upload.
Frequently asked questions
Does AirDrop work over long distances?
No. It needs the iPhones near each other to start. Recent iOS versions can continue over the internet if you walk away, but you cannot start an AirDrop to someone in another city.
Does iMessage compress videos?
It can. Large videos are often sent at reduced quality. A download link delivers the original file unchanged.
Is Mail Drop a good alternative?
It works for attachments up to 5 GB if you use Apple's Mail app. A download link works from any app and with any email service.
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