Likely fix
Fix: Phone not recognized by USB
A phone may not be recognized by USB because the cable is charge-only, the phone is locked, file transfer mode is not selected, the port is dirty, or the computer driver is missing.
Quick answer
Unlock the phone, use a data cable, choose File Transfer if prompted, and try another USB port.
Important warning
Many charging cables do not transfer data. A cable can charge the phone but never show files on the computer.
Try this
- 1 Unlock the phone after plugging it in.
- 2 Check for a USB mode notification on the phone.
- 3 Choose File Transfer or Photo Transfer if you want files.
- 4 Try another USB cable known to transfer data.
- 5 Try another USB port.
- 6 Clean the phone charging port gently if the cable is loose.
- 7 Restart the phone and computer.
- 8 Install phone drivers or update the computer if needed.
Common causes
Charge-only cable.
Phone is locked.
USB mode is set to charging only.
Dirty or loose phone port.
Bad USB port.
Driver or trust prompt issue.
What to check next
- Check USB mode notification.
- Check another data cable.
- Check another USB port.
- Check whether the phone asks to trust the computer.
- Check whether the cable feels loose.
This might need a cable or adapter
If this fix points to a cable issue, check the related cable guide before buying the wrong one.
Check the related cable →