transfer files from mini to new MBP

[mikbik]

I just got an M3 MBP and I'd like to transfer files ( mostly, but all, photos ) from my mini to my MBP. I tried connecting the two via Bluetooth. I got them to see each other and actually connect, but the both disconnect after a couple seconds. I've 'Forgot' from both and restarted both, tried again with the same result.
How do I get them to connect? They recognize each other quickly and connect quickly, but disconnect quickly all on their own.

Both are on the same desk, so distance should be an issue.

Both are Ventura 13.5

Ideas?

 

[IWT]

I'm probably not helping much, but the latest version of Ventura is 13.6

It might/might not help to update to the latest version.

However, this might help:

Transfer files between two Mac computers using target disk mode

You can connect two Mac computers using a USB, USB-C or Thunderbolt cable, then transfer files.

support.apple.com

Ian

 

[mikbik]

Thanks. The next update I see is, Sonoma 14.1. Not going there just yet, the articles I've seen on that seem like it's mostly video conferencing upgrades, which I do none of. I did order a Thunderbolt cable though, I'll try that.
Nonetheless, if can figure out the Bluetooth transfer, that would be good..

 

[Slydude]

Apple has the following suggestions for using Bluetooth File Exchange to transfer files. That's probably not the method I would choose if you need to transfer a large number of files. I think it would be quite slow at best.

Share files between your Mac and Bluetooth devices

Share files between your Mac and Bluetooth enabled devices.

support.apple.com

Have you considered using Migration Assistant to do this? It's built with this kind of transfer in mind and does allow one to choose which files get transferred.

Starting Over? How to Transfer Data to a New Mac With Migration Assistant

Whether you're upgrading to a new Mac or moving over from Windows, Apple's Migration Assistant will move files and other content between computers.

www.pcmag.com

If you are moving files from an existing user account on an old Mac to a newer one don't create a new user account first. That will likely complicate matters when you try to use the older files. Even if the old and new accounts have the same username and passwords there will likely be issues because the accounts were created in a different order. Migrate the old account before you do anything else.

 

[Jimmysb]

Airdrop, via WiFi, BT. Would take forever.

 

[toMACsh]

I'm probably not helping much, but the latest version of Ventura is 13.6

I have 13.6.3 so if the OP has 13.5 I'm not sure why 13.6 is not showing up in Software Update. Although, sometimes I've had to click the More Updates button to see the latest update that has come out after the latest upgrade. (Maybe that's a little bit helpful!)