sharing large files is always a ‘difficult’ task in the digital world. When nearby, Apple users can use AirDrop to exchange files, but when the recipient is far away, the story becomes more difficult. Typically, users have to rely on third-party cloud storage platforms (or iCloud if there is enough space), upload the file, and then share the link via email or messaging application for the recipient to download
Instead of compressing and attaching the file to an email, Mail Drop will upload it to iCloud in its original file format to preserve quality and data. Recipients will receive an iCloud link to the file and can download it using any web browser (even if they don’t have an Apple ID).
Furthermore, the 5 GB limit on attachments does not take up any space on the user’s iCloud. Therefore, even if you run out of 5 GB of free iCloud storage, you can still use Mail Drop. In short, it’s the perfect solution for sharing large files for regular email services.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind. Attachments are only available for download for 30 days. Additionally, Mail Drop has a storage limit of 1 TB, if you exceed this limit you will need to wait for other files to expire from sharing and the storage space to be freed up.
How to use Mail Drop
The advantage of the feature is that there is no need to adjust settings or activate it manually. When it detects that a user has shared a file that is too large, the Mail app will automatically ask if it wants to use Mail Drop. To use, do the following:
- Open the Mail app.
- Click the Compose button in the lower right corner of the screen.
- Add recipients, subject, and email body. If you have multiple accounts, select the account you want to email.
- Tap the attachment icon on the keyboard and select the required files.
- Finally, press the Send button (blue arrow) in the upper right corner. The application will automatically use Mail Drop if the attachment size is too large, just click ‘Use Mail Drop’.
Depending on network speed and attachment size, emails may stay in Outbox for a while while uploading files to iCloud servers
Similarly, you can also use Mail Drop on iPad or Mac. The recipient will receive your email with a link to download the attachment and an expiration date