How to Share Wi-Fi Between iPhones Without a Password in iOS 15: All the Methods

You find yourself in a situation where you urgently need to share the Internet with someone else. iPhone, but the Wi-Fi password is forgotten or too complex to enter manually? iOS 15 Apple has simplified the process of sharing networks between devices in its ecosystem, but not all users are aware of the hidden capabilities. This article will reveal All working methods of Wi-Fi transfer without password — from standard Instant Hotspot to bypass routes with AirDrop And Bluetooth.

We will analyze not only the basic settings, but also the nuances: why sometimes iPhone doesn't recognize another device for Internet sharing, how to bypass operator restrictions, and what to do if a feature suddenly stops working after an update. The instructions are adapted for iOS 15 (including subversions 15.1–15.7) and tested on models from iPhone 6s to iPhone 13 Pro Max.

Before proceeding with the steps, make sure both devices meet the key requirements:

• 📱 Both iPhone work on iOS 15 or newer (check in Settings → General → About).
• 🔄 Devices are linked to one Apple ID (or are in one Family Sharing).
• 📶 On the distributor iPhone included Wi-Fi And Bluetooth (even if you use mobile data).
• 📡 Mobile Internet is activated on the source device (if you are distributing 3G/4G/5G).

1. Instant Hotspot Method: Automatic Distribution Without a Password

Instant Hotspot - is a proprietary Apple technology that allows you to connect to another person's access point iPhone or iPad without entering a password. In iOS 15 The function works more reliably than in previous versions, but requires strict adherence to the conditions.

To activate Instant Hotspot, follow the steps:

1. On distributing iPhone open Settings → Tethering.
2. Activate the slider Allow others.
3. On pluggable iPhone go to Settings → Wi-Fi.
4. The name of the distributing device will appear in the list of networks (for example, "Vasya's iPhone"). Tap on it.
5. The connection will occur automatically, without asking for a password.

If the device name does not appear in the list of networks, check:

Make sure both iPhones are connected to iCloud|Check if Bluetooth is turned on on both devices|Restart both phones|Update iOS to the latest 15.x|Reset network settings (Settings → General → Transfer or reset iPhone → Reset → Reset network settings)-->

⚠️ Attention: Some mobile operators (eg Tele2 or Yota) may block the function Modem mode in the tariff plan. If the slider Allow others inactive, please contact your operator to activate the option (you may need to change your tariff).

2. Transferring a Wi-Fi password via AirDrop (alternative method)

If Instant Hotspot does not work (for example, due to different Apple ID), you can transfer the password from the current network Wi-Fi through AirDropThis method is suitable if both devices are already connected to the same network, but you want to simplify access for the guest.

Instructions:

1. On connected iPhone open Settings → Wi-Fi.
2. Tap the ⓘ icon next to the name of the current network.
3. Click Password and hold it to select.
4. In the context menu, select Copy.
5. Open AirDrop (swipe down from the top right corner to Control center → hold the network block → AirDrop).
6. Select target iPhone from the list and send the copied password.

The password will be saved to the receiving device's clipboard. All you need to do is paste it into the input field when connecting to the network.

3. Sharing the Internet via Bluetooth (if Wi-Fi is disabled)

Little known fact: in iOS 15 You can distribute the Internet Bluetooth, If Wi-Fi For some reason, it's unavailable. This method is slower (up to ~1 Mbps), but uses significantly less battery power.

How to set up:

1. On the distributor iPhone activate Modem mode (Settings → Tethering).
2. Turn on Bluetooth on both devices.
3. On the plug-in iPhone go to Settings → Bluetooth.
4. Select the sharing device from the list and confirm pairing.
5. Return to Settings → Cellular → Data Options → Cellular Data.
6. Activate the slider Bluetooth connection.

⚠️ Attention: When distributing the Internet through Bluetooth some applications (eg YouTube or Netflix) may automatically reduce stream quality due to low speed. For video streaming, it's better to use Wi-Fi.

4. Why doesn't the iPhone see another device for sharing?

The problem is when iPhone does not appear in the list of available access points, most often related to settings iCloud or BluetoothHere are the key reasons and solutions:

• 🔄 Different Apple IDs: Make sure you are using the same account on both devices (check in Settings → [Your name]). If the devices are in Family Sharing, check if the option is enabled Internet access sharing in family settings.
• 📡 Bluetooth disabled: Even if you distribute Wi-Fi, Bluetooth must be enabled to identify devices. Restart the module in Control center.
• 🔋 Low power mode: In this mode Instant Hotspot may not work. Disable it in Settings → Battery.
• 📱 Outdated firmware: On iOS 14 and below the function is unstable. Update both devices to iOS 15.4+ for better compatibility.

If the problem persists, reset your network settings:

Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Reset → Reset Network Settings

What to do if resetting doesn't help?

If after reset Instant Hotspot still doesn't work:

1. Log out iCloud on both devices and sign in again.

2. Check if it is blocking Screen time access to modem settings (Settings → Screen Time → Content Restrictions → Allowed Apps).

3. Install the beta version of iOS (if available) - Apple often fixes Internet tethering bugs in updates.

5. Carrier restrictions: how to bypass the modem block

Many Russian operators (MTS, Beeline, Megaphone) limit or completely block the function Modem mode in basic tariffs. There are several ways to get around this:

• 📞 Call for support: Ask to activate the "Modem" option (sometimes it's free, for example, MegaFon in the "Everything for our own" tariffs).
• 🔄 Tariff change: Switch to a tariff with unlimited Internet (usually the modem is allowed by default).
• 🛠 Manually adding APN: Sometimes creating a new APN profile with settings for the modem helps (check the parameters with your operator).
• 📶 Using VPN: Some users have reported that connecting to VPN (For example, Warp by Cloudflare) temporarily unlocks the modem. However, this method is unstable.

⚠️ Attention: After activation Modem mode the operator may start charging traffic at a separate rate (for example, 50 rubles/GB for Tele2). Check the terms and conditions in your personal account or via USSD request. *100#.

6. Security: Risks of Sharing Wi-Fi Without a Password

Automatic connection via Instant Hotspot convenient, but has hidden risks:

• 🔓 Unauthorized access: If your iPhone stolen, the attacker will be able to connect to your access point without a password (unless you disable Modem mode remotely via Find My).
• 📡 Traffic interception: When using public networks (for example, in a cafe), data transmitted via the network may be intercepted.
• 📱 Battery discharge: Constant distribution Wi-Fi reduces operating time iPhone by 30–50%. It is recommended to connect the device to a charger.

To minimize risks:

• Turn it off Modem mode after use.
• Use VPN (For example, ProtonVPN or 1.1.1.1) when distributing the Internet in public places.
• Set up automatic modem shutdown via Short-term commands (application Shortcuts).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about sharing Wi-Fi between iPhones

Is it possible to share Wi-Fi from iPhone to Android without a password?

No, it's a function. Instant Hotspot Only works between Apple devices. For Android you will have to enter the password manually or send it via a messenger (for example, Telegram).

Why did Instant Hotspot stop working after updating to iOS 15.6?

In some subversions iOS 15 (e.g. 15.6–15.6.1) there were bugs with data exchange between devices. Solution:

1. Update both iPhone to iOS 15.7.1 or iOS 16.
2. Reset network settings on both devices.
3. Log out and log back in iCloud.

How many devices can I connect to an iPhone using Personal Hotspot?

Technically - before 5 devices at the same time (3 by Wi-Fi, 1 by USB, 1 by Bluetooth). However, in practice, the speed will be divided between all connected gadgets, and the battery will drain in 1–2 hours.

Is it possible to share Wi-Fi from an iPhone to a MacBook without a password?

Yes, Instant Hotspot works between iPhone And Mac (on macOS Monterey or newer). Make sure that on Mac included Wi-Fi And Bluetooth, and the devices are tied to one Apple ID.

How do I turn off notifications when connecting to my hotspot?

Go to Settings → Notifications → Tethering and disable the option Allow notificationsThis will hide pop-ups about new connections, but will not block access itself.