Since Windows users don't have anything like AirDrop, they have to connect their iPhone to their computer andMedia transfer From the File Explorer menu, select File Explorer. But what if your iPhone fails to appear in the File Explorer menu? Before using it, try alternative methods to complete the media transfer process. Use the tricks below to fix iPhone not showing up in Windows 11 File Explorer.
There are several reasons why your iPhone won't show up in File Explorer. This can be due to a faulty USB port or cable, outdated drivers, authentication failure, and more. We'll start with the basics and move on to advanced fixes.
1. Allow your computer to access photos and videos.
When you connect your iPhone to a Windows computer, iOS asks you for permission. You may notice a pop-up window on your iPhone. Select "Allow" So your computer can access the photos and videos on your iPhone. If you accidentally select "Do not allow" , then reconnect your iPhone.
If you're connecting your iPhone to your Windows 11 PC for the first time, you may be asked to trust the currently connected computer. Click Trust And see if your iPhone appears in File Explorer.
2. Try another USB port.
If your preferred USB port is broken or damaged, your computer won't detect your iPhone. Most Windows computers come with multiple USB ports to take advantage of. You can disconnect your iPhone from the current port and attach it to another slot.
3. Check the data cable.
iPhone cables are not known for their reliability over long-term use. You should inspect the cable closely at both ends. If you notice any fraying or significant damage, replace it with a different one. A damaged cable may interfere with connectivity, and your iPhone may fail to appear in File Explorer.
4. Unlock your iPhone
You'll need to unlock your iPhone to verify your identity. Only then can your computer view the phone's contents in the File Explorer app. If your iPhone is locked, it may not appear on Windows.
5. Restart File Explorer
Restart the app if your iPhone still doesn't appear in File Explorer. Sometimes, File Explorer may fail to respond.Follow these steps:
Step 1: Right click on Windows key and open Task management list.
Step 2: Locate Windows Explorer And press Reboot task.
Open File Explorer app Check if your iPhone appears.
6. Restart iPhone and Windows PC
You can restart both your iPhone and Windows PC and try again.
Step 1: Click on any Volume and power key At the same time on your iPhone, drag the slider to turn off your iPhone.
Step 2: Keep pressing power button until you see Apple logo.
Step 3: Click on Windows key and select Power List to restart the computer.
Connect your iPhone to your computer and open the File Explorer app.
7. Reset all settings
A faulty setup disk can cause issues like your iPhone not showing up in File Explorer on Windows. It's time to reset all settings.
Step 1: turn on Settings app On your iPhone and open general.
Step 2: Click on Transfer or Reassign and select Reset.
Step 3: Click on Reset all settings.
8. Disable antivirus on your computer.
Third-party antivirus software on your Windows computer may be affecting your iPhone's connection. You'll need to disable any of these programs before connecting your iPhone to your computer.
9. Reinstall iPhone drivers
Corrupt iPhone drivers on your computer could be the main reason why your iPhone doesn't show up in File Explorer. You can use the Device Manager menu to reinstall the drivers.
Step 1: Right click on Windows key and open Device Manager menu.
Step 2: Expand portable devices.
Step 3: Right click on your iPhone and select Uninstall the device.
Restart your computer and Windows will install the required drivers during the restart process.
10. Open iTunes and try again.
Although you don't need iTunes to access iPhone content in the File Explorer app, Apple's software includes the drivers needed to troubleshoot connection issues between two devices.
Step 1: Download and install iTunes of Microsoft Store on Windows.
Step 2: Open iTunes Connect your iPhone to your computer.
11. Update iOS and Windows
You can update iOS and Windows 11 to the latest version to fix connectivity issues between the two devices.
iPhone
Step 1: Open an app Settings And press general.
Step 2: Locate “Software update” and install Latest version From the operating system on your iPhone.
Windows
Step 1: Click on Windows key + I To open Settings app on your computer.
Step 2: Locate Windows Update From the sidebar and install Pending update on your computer.
Access your iPhone content on your desktop
You can always use cloud storage systems or Wi-Fi sharing apps to share content from your iPhone to a Windows computer. But nothing beats the convenience and speed of a wired connection. What trick worked to fix the iPhone not showing up in File Explorer? Share your results in the comments below.
